Downtown Pedestrian Mall to Open June 20

The Downtown Pedestrian Mall (DPM) will open on June 20, and will run until September 2, 2024. Operating daily from noon until 10 p.m., Water Street from Adelaide Street to Prescott Street will transform into a bustling vehicle-free, people-friendly zone. 

“We are consistently looking for new ways to create engaging public spaces and support the business community,” said Councillor Jill Bruce, lead for community services. “We are proud to not only continue the Downtown Pedestrian Mall but add exciting offerings for both residents and visitors.”

Since its introduction in 2020, the DPM has evolved into a beloved annual tradition that provides a safe and fun space for pedestrians to explore Downtown St. John’s. 

Thanks to a $194,000 grant provided by the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador to support the celebration of the Year of the Arts, the DPM will be enhanced with a variety of new activities, including: 

Music on Water - The City is excited to host two concerts at the Downtown Pedestrian Mall this summer which will feature local musicians. Concerts will take place on July 6 and August 31 from 3 to 5 p.m.
Markets on Water - Every second Thursday from 6 to 8 p.m., starting July 4, the Downtown Pedestrian Mall will host local vendors, artists and makers from the St. John’s Farmer’s Market, Craft Council of Newfoundland and Labrador, IceberGallery and more.  There will also be a variety of food trucks.
Public Art - This summer, enjoy vibrant public art by local visual artists displayed throughout the DPM.

“St. John’s is a City built on arts and culture,” said Councillor Sandy Hickman, council lead for the Arts and Culture Advisory Committee. “The Downtown Pedestrian Mall is yet another way that we can showcase our diverse and talented artists.”

In addition to the above initiatives and events, there will be pop-up events each Friday throughout the summer showcasing local entertainers. The City also provides free space on the Downtown Pedestrian Mall for organizations to get creative and engage with the community. More information is available on the City's Downtown Pedestrian Mall webpage. 

The City of St. John’s strives to be an accessible, inclusive, healthy and safe community. The Downtown Pedestrian Mall will have inclusivity features that ensure a welcoming environment for all, including accessible parking and public transportation, barrier-free routes, accessible rest areas, and accessible wayfinding.

The City of St. John’s has a strategic direction to be a Connected City, one where people feel connected, have a sense of belonging and are actively engaged in community life. The DPM advances this direction by bringing the community together and showcasing the remarkable and diverse talent on offer in St. John's.