The Charles Street Promenade will return on June 8, giving pedestrians a chance to take over Charles Street temporarily so they can shop, dine or just explore without worrying about car traffic.
During the free Saturday event, Charles Street will be closed to vehicles between Saratoga Street and North Avenue, from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., and many merchants and restaurants along the way will offer special promotions to encourage people to take part. There will be an After Party in the Station North Arts District from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.
This will be the sixth Charles Street Promenade since the COVID-19 pandemic spread to the U.S. in early 2020, after events on Oct. 17, 2020; May 22 and Sept. 25 of 2021; June 4, 2022; and June 3, 2023.
The Promenade grew out of a desire by leaders of the Downtown Partnership of Baltimore and others to help businesses hurt financially by the government-imposed lockdowns of 2020 while promoting social distancing and other public health recommendations. It turned out to be so popular that organizers decided to keep it going and build on it.
“This beloved event transforms the Historic Charles Street thoroughfare into vibrant pedestrian-friendly zone, featuring exciting street-front activations, live musical performances, and more,” the Downtown Partnership said in an announcement of the event. “Whether you come on foot, by bike, with your little ones, or furry friends, there’s something for everyone!”
Several organizations join the Downtown Partnership to make the Promenade happen, including the City of Baltimore; Central Baltimore Partnership; Charles Street Development Corporation; Midtown Community Benefits District; Metro Gallery; Mount Vernon Place Conservancy; University of Baltimore and Baltimore National Heritage Area.
Participating businesses include Viva Books; Differentregard clothing store; Lumiere Candle Studio; Adorn Vintage Furniture & Designs; Alma Cocina Latina; Darker than Blue Grille; Marie Louise Bistro and EDR Eat.Drink.Relax.
Participating attractions include: the Walters Art Museum; the Baltimore Basilica; the Washington Monument; and the Maryland Center for History and Culture.
