Have you ever wondered what it would be like to live in a walkable city? Give it a try at D.C.'s first Open Streets event this fall.

The concept is simple: A stretch of Georgia Avenue (almost three miles long) will be closed to all but bicycle and foot traffic so that people can experience a leisurely stroll around the neighborhood. Explore the local shops and restaurants without having to worry about traffic, noxious exhaust fumes, or waiting at the crosswalk. See what life could be like if the city was a little greener, a little slower, and much more pedestrian-friendly.

Event Details

WHEN: Saturday, October 5, 2019 | 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
WHERE: Georgia Avenue, NW in Washington, D.C.

A big part of the event will be promoting alternative methods of transportation. In addition to letting people walk in the streets during the event, organizers will be offering free bike repairs, doing scooter demonstrations, and helping D.C. residents to envision a greener city. Though the concept originated in the 1970s in Bogota, it has spread throughout the world, and Washington, D.C., will join 122 other U.S. cities that have hosted successful Open Streets events.

According to D.C. Mayor, Muriel Bowser:

“Open Streets is a unique event that will allow residents and businesses to reimagine public roads as community spaces and to consider new possibilities about the future of transportation and infrastructure in our city,” said Mayor Bowser. “Together, at a fun, family-friendly event, we can explore the benefits of having fewer cars on our roads.”

Area business owners aren't sure how this is going to work out for them. Let's show them that you don't need cars to get around! 

For more information about the event, take a look at the official announcement from the mayor's office or check the official Open Streets D.C. Facebook page for updates and announcements.

**All of the photos in this article are courtesy of the Open Streets DC Facebook page.

Are you excited about this first Open Streets event in D.C.? Have you participated in one elsewhere? Leave a comment and tell us about it!