Anyone who’s been to a block party knows that closing public streets to through traffic creates a comfortable and fun environment to ride, walk, run, scoot, roll, and play in the street. That is the environment you’ll find at Open Streets, popping up in different Fort Collins neighborhoods each June and September.

We asked a longtime Open Streets organizer and self-proclaimed number-one fan, Andrew Schneider, what to expect this year. “First, let me say that I fall in love with Fort Collins all over again every time Open Streets rolls around…This is not a commercial or consumer-driven festival experience and you’ll never have to pay to take part. It takes hundreds of friends and neighbors coming together to create something special for each other—and we do it in an open format that invites everyone to add their own unique flair.”

Open Streets invites everyone to enjoy a packed schedule of live music, art, culture, and free activities for all ages. Throw on your dancing shoes, strap your guitar on your back, grab a bike, scooter, or skateboard, and come hungry for lunch at one of over 10 local food trucks. This is your chance to explore 1.5 miles of uniquely Fort Collins neighborhoods.

Schneider thinks getting outside with other people and immerse yourself in the streetscape is a remedy for living in a divided time. “When you are at Open Streets engaging your mind and body in one of the many physical or creative activities available, you’re likely doing something that feels good and has great cognitive and material health benefits. You’re smiling. You’re laughing. You’re happy. To me, this is the perfect headspace to be in when you will connect with your neighbors and meet new people.”

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There are 5 must-do activities that Schneider has identified as his favorites

1. Honor the South American ciclovía (cycleway) roots of Open Streets by biking, skating, rolling, scooting or walking the route.
2.  Everyone should have a taste of Fort Collins food culture, some of the best food trucks in the city will well represent which.
3. See how many ways you can move your body between free hip hop dance workshops, yoga, and simple fitness activities for a variety of abilities.
4. Create a masterpiece using provided art supplies or sidewalk chalk.
5.  Interact with professional music educators, producers, and performers through a variety of hands-on experiences and performances across the route…or just find an open stretch of road and make your own music!”

But wait..there is more

“Ride the Route”

Chalk The Block!

Open Beats!

Open Art! with Mighty Fine Art

Open Dance!

Bust a move with Fort Collins’ own Breaking and Hip Hop crew

10:00 am – Break and Hip Hop Dance Workshop

11:00am-1: 00 pm Drop-in Break and Hip Hop Dance Floor

Explore How Music Enhances Your Physical Activity at Connexion Corner

CONNEXION CORNER Live

Music Stage

10:30- Luke Peters

1130 – Listening Session with Emily Gorgol

12:30 – Maxwell Tretter

1:15 – Hannah Brown

2:00 – Pappy Longlegs

The Full Lineup