The Upper Westside will once again become a car-free gathering space this fall as the fourth annual Westside Stride Block Party returns Sunday, Nov. The free event will take place along Howell Mill Road between Eighth Street and 17th Street, transforming the corridor into a space for walking, biking and community instead of vehicle traffic. Streets will be closed to cars during the Westside Stride Block Party.
For one afternoon, the busy corridor will be dedicated to pedestrians, cyclists and families, giving residents an opportunity to experience the neighborhood without vehicle traffic while exploring one of Atlanta’s fastest-growing commercial districts. Organized by the Upper Westside Improvement District in partnership with Atlanta Streets Alive and the Atlanta Department of Transportation, the event is designed to showcase the value of safe, walkable and bikeable communities while bringing neighbors together and encouraging visitors to support local businesses throughout the district. A festival attendee browses a small business vendor at the 2025 Westside Stride Block Party.
(Photo via Westside Stride.) The Upper Westside Improvement District was created in 2016 by commercial property owners to invest in transportation improvements, connectivity and safety throughout the district through infrastructure projects and community partnerships. The collaboration brings together organizations with a shared goal of creating welcoming public spaces that encourage active transportation, community engagement and economic activity for local businesses. For one afternoon, Howell Mill Road will be transformed into a lively public space featuring live music, DJ sets, a pop-up maker’s market, local food, an artist and vendor market and family-friendly activities, including bounce houses and a petting zoo.
Visitors can explore neighborhood shops and restaurants while enjoying live entertainment outside Northside Tavern, one of Atlanta’s best-known live music venues. This year’s event also expands opportunities for people to reach the festival without a car. A street closure along Third Street will create a car-free connection to Tech Parkway, while new bicycle and pedestrian facilities on 10th Street, 17th Street and West Marietta Street will make it easier for people walking, biking, using strollers, scooters and other nonmotorized transportati…
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