Open Streets Boston: Allston-Brighton Goes Car-Free Open Streets Boston: Allston-Brighton Without Traffic

On October 4, Allston-Brighton will take on a different character as part of Open Streets Boston. Brighton Avenue and Harvard Avenue will become open public spaces for several hours, bringing people into streets that normally carry a steady flow of traffic.

The event runs from 10:30 a.m. to 3 p.m., with the street closures beginning at 9 a.m. and continuing until 4 p.m. During that time, walking, cycling, skating, music, food, and neighborhood activities will replace the usual movement of cars. The streets will give local businesses and community groups a chance to bring their activities closer to the center of neighborhood life.

The change will be noticeable well beyond the event area. Traffic approaching Brighton Avenue and Harvard Avenue will have to move around the closed sections, while parking restrictions will affect the surrounding streets. MBTA routes 57 and 66 will also operate under an event advisory. For trips across Allston-Brighton, the timing of arrival and departure can therefore make a significant difference.

Brighton Avenue and Harvard Avenue will take on a more relaxed rhythm for the afternoon. Residents can walk through the area, stop at local businesses, and join activities along the route while the usual traffic gives way to pedestrians and cyclists.

Open Streets Boston takes this format into different parts of the city during the year. Allston-Brighton is one of the 2026 locations, with Roslindale scheduled to follow later in October.

The closures will also change the usual approach to the neighborhood. Several streets around Brighton Avenue and Harvard Avenue will close to regular traffic during the event. The closures will affect the usual routes into Allston-Brighton, particularly during the morning and early afternoon.

Boston Town Car Service handles airport transfers, hotel pickups, and private transportation across Boston, helping visitors reach their destinations while the city’s streets are busy with events.