Midtown Manhattan will turn into a pedestrian-friendly holiday destination this Sunday, December 14, as Holiday Open Streets returns to Fifth Avenue from 12 pm to 6 pm. During the event, Fifth Avenue will be completely closed to vehicles between 48th and 57th streets, allowing visitors to walk freely through one of the city’s most iconic corridors.
Several nearby cross streets—49th through 56th streets—will also be open exclusively to pedestrians between Fifth and Sixth avenues. Drivers are advised to plan alternate routes, as traffic restrictions will be in place throughout Midtown from 8:00 am to 8:00 pm on the same day.
The initiative aims to create a safer and more enjoyable holiday experience for both residents and tourists visiting popular landmarks such as Rockefeller Plaza, Radio City Music Hall, and Central Park. The car-free setup is also expected to boost foot traffic for local businesses, enhancing the festive shopping atmosphere along Fifth Avenue.
In addition to the one-day event, pedestrian-only access will continue on West 49th Street and West 50th Street between Fifth and Sixth avenues daily from 11 a.m. to 1 a.m. through January 4, 2026. These efforts are part of a broader push to expand pedestrian spaces across the city, improving safety and reclaiming street space for public use.