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Boston's iconic Newbury Street is set to undergo a remarkable transformation this holiday season, as the city announces the return of its popular "Open Newbury" initiative. For two Sundays in December, the bustling eight-block stretch from Berkeley Street to Massachusetts Avenue will be closed to vehicular traffic, allowing pedestrians to freely explore the area's renowned shops, restaurants, and holiday festivities.

Unlock the Magic of Newbury Street this Holiday Season

Pedestrian-Friendly Festivities

The streets of Newbury will be abuzz with activity on December 1st and 8th, as the city's "Open Newbury: Holiday Stroll" event takes center stage. From 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., the area will be exclusively reserved for pedestrians, allowing them to stroll, shop, and soak in the festive atmosphere without the hassle of navigating through traffic. This car-free experience will extend from the Hynes Convention Center all the way to Berkeley Street, just a stone's throw from the picturesque Boston Public Garden.The decision to expand the popular Open Newbury initiative into the winter months is a strategic move by city officials to celebrate the holiday season and support local businesses during the critical shopping period. "The tradition of Open Newbury that we enjoy during the summer brings so much opportunity for community gathering and economic growth for our small businesses," remarked Mayor Michelle Wu in a statement. "With the trees sparkling with holiday lights and the excitement around a holiday stroll, these two dates will be an exciting chance to support our local businesses and build community."

A Shopper's Delight

The pedestrian-only Newbury Street will offer a unique shopping experience for holiday enthusiasts. Visitors can explore a diverse array of popular businesses, from the beloved Trident Booksellers to the fashion-forward Zara and Anthropologie. Those in search of the perfect gift will find a treasure trove of options, with Boston.com readers highlighting their favorite Newbury Street stores, including restaurants like Sonsie, Thinking Cup, and La Voile.The holiday edition of Open Newbury promises to be a festive celebration, with the streets adorned in twinkling lights and the air filled with the excitement of the season. City Councilor Sharon Durkan expressed her enthusiasm, stating, "I cannot wait" for the opportunity to support local businesses and foster a sense of community during this special time of year.

A Continuation of a Beloved Summer Tradition

The upcoming Open Newbury: Holiday Stroll is a continuation of the successful summer initiative that opened the iconic street to pedestrians on 10 consecutive Sundays from June 30 to September 1. The city's decision to extend the program into the winter months reflects the overwhelming popularity and positive impact of the car-free experience.During the summer edition, Newbury Street transformed into a vibrant, pedestrian-friendly destination, allowing visitors to leisurely explore the area's shops, dine at its renowned restaurants, and soak in the lively atmosphere. The holiday-themed iteration promises to build upon this success, offering a unique opportunity for the community to come together and celebrate the season in a truly special way.

A Backup Plan for Inclement Weather

In anticipation of potential inclement weather, the city has designated December 15th as a makeup date for the Open Newbury: Holiday Stroll event. This contingency plan ensures that the festivities can go on, regardless of the weather, allowing residents and visitors to fully embrace the holiday spirit on Newbury Street.The city's commitment to providing a reliable and enjoyable experience for all is a testament to its dedication to supporting the local community and fostering a sense of togetherness during the most wonderful time of the year.