A2 Summer Streets Returns to Downtown Ann Arbor for the 2026 Season

Written By Ashley

Pedestrian-Friendly Streets, Live Entertainment, Outdoor Dining, and Community Experiences Return June 4–September 28

Ann Arbor, MI — Downtown Ann Arbor will once again transform into a vibrant destination for outdoor dining, live entertainment, shopping, and community connection as A2 Summer Streets returns for the 2026 season. Beginning Thursday, June 4 and continuing through September 28, portions of Main Street, Liberty Street, and Washington Street will close to vehicle traffic each weekend, creating a welcoming pedestrian-first experience in the heart of downtown.

Presented by the Main Street Area Association in partnership with downtown businesses and community sponsors, A2 Summer Streets invites residents and visitors to experience Ann Arbor in a new way—whether enjoying live music, exploring local shops, dining outdoors, or simply gathering with friends and family.

Summer Streets Road Closures

Due to ongoing downtown construction and adjustments to public transit routes, this year's Summer Streets closure schedule has been modified to support pedestrian-friendly experiences while maintaining access for transit riders and downtown visitors. The updated schedule accommodates temporary bus stop relocations implemented by TheRide while continuing to create welcoming spaces for outdoor dining, shopping, entertainment, and community gathering.

Weekly Closure Schedule

  • Thursday at 4 PM: Main Street and Liberty Street close to vehicle traffic

  • Friday at 2 PM: Washington Street closes to vehicle traffic

  • Monday at 6 AM: All streets reopen to vehicle traffic

Season-Long ClosureLiberty Street between Fourth Avenue and the first alley west of Fourth Avenue (near Spencer) will remain closed throughout the Summer Streets season, except during designated special events.

Developed in partnership with downtown stakeholders, the updated closure schedule helps balance accessibility, business needs, and community gathering spaces while preserving the vibrant atmosphere that makes Summer Streets a beloved downtown tradition.

Downtown is Open During Construction

Visitors should note that 2026 is one of the most active construction seasons in downtown Ann Arbor's history, with several infrastructure and utility projects taking place throughout the city. While road closures and detours may impact travel routes, downtown businesses, restaurants, and parking structures remain open and accessible throughout the summer.

Guests are encouraged to allow extra travel time, plan their route in advance, and check current road closure information before visiting downtown.

Summer Streets 2026 Highlights

Throughout the season, visitors can enjoy:

  • Live music performances featuring local and regional artists

  • Family-friendly activities and community programming

  • Storytime on Main presented in partnership with Literati Bookstore

  • Fitness classes including Barre3 and Pure Barre Ann Arbor Downtown

  • Interactive experiences, public art, and special activations

  • Expanded outdoor dining and shopping opportunities

Programming takes place throughout downtown each weekend, with new performers and activities added throughout the season.

A Community-Driven Downtown Experience

"Summer Streets has become one of downtown Ann Arbor's most anticipated traditions because it allows people to experience our city differently. When the streets close to vehicles, they open up to possibility—families can play, friends can gather, musicians can perform, and visitors can explore downtown at their own pace," said Ashley Schafer, Executive Director of the Main Street Area Association. "We know this construction season has brought challenges and that getting downtown may require a little extra planning. We recognize that and appreciate everyone's patience. But once you're here, you'll find a downtown community that's ready to welcome you with open arms. Our restaurants, retailers, and service businesses are working hard through a difficult construction season, and there has never been a more important time to show your support for the local businesses that make downtown Ann Arbor such a special place."

Getting Downtown

Visitors are encouraged to walk, bike, use public transit, or park in one of downtown Ann Arbor's public parking structures. Despite ongoing construction projects, downtown remains open for business throughout the summer.

For current road closure and construction information, visit the City of Ann Arbor's Road and Lane Closure webpage.

The full Summer Streets event schedule, including performances and special activations, is available at MainStreetAnnArbor.org.

Thank You to Our Sponsors

A2 Summer Streets 2026 is proudly presented by Destination Ann Arbor and made possible through the support of Bank of Ann Arbor, the Ann Arbor Downtown Development Authority, and the City of Ann Arbor. Together, these partners help create a vibrant, welcoming downtown experience for residents and visitors while supporting the local businesses that make downtown Ann Arbor a special place to gather all summer long.

Follow @mainstreetannarbor on Instagram and Facebook for weekly lineups, artist spotlights, and real-time updates.

#A2SummerStreets | #AnnArborEvents | #DowntownAnnArbor

Ashley
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