Open Streets ICT
| Open Streets ICT | |
|---|---|
 Cyclists and pedestrians along Douglas Avenue during Open Streets ICT in downtown Wichita (2023) | |
| Status | Active |
| Frequency | Annual (with additional seasonal events) |
| Locations | Wichita, Kansas, United States |
| Years active | 2017–present |
| Attendance | 30,000 (2024)[1] |
| Website | openstreetsict.com |
Open Streets ICT is a recurring ciclovía event held in Wichita, Kansas, United States. The program began in 2017 and temporarily closes major city streets to motor vehicle traffic, opening them for pedestrians, cyclists, and recreational use. Activities along the route include live music, fitness classes, food vendors, and community organization booths.[2]
History
Open Streets ICT was launched in September 2017 by the City of Wichita with support from community organizations and sponsors. The first event took place along Douglas Avenue, attracting an estimated 14,000–15,000 participants.[3][4]
The program became an annual event, and in 2019 more than 30,000 people participated. Additional spring and neighborhood editions have since been introduced, including events in the NoMar district and near Wichita State University.[5][6]
Attendance
Attendance at Open Streets ICT has grown steadily since its launch. Estimates published by the City of Wichita and local media are shown below:
| Year | Estimated attendance | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 2017 | 14,000–15,000 | First event held September 24 along Douglas Avenue.[7][8] |
| 2018 | 30,000+ | Expanded route to Hillside Avenue.[9] |
| 2019 | 30,000+ | Growth led to recognition as one of Wichita’s largest community events.[10] |
| 2020 | Cancelled | Event cancelled due to the COVID-19 pandemic.[11] |
| 2021 | 20,000+ | Scaled-back fall event after pandemic cancellation.[12] |
| 2022 | 30,000+ | Described as one of Wichita’s largest civic gatherings.[13] |
| 2023 | 25,000+ | Event held along Douglas and in the NoMar district.[14] |
| 2024 | 30,000 (record) | City of Wichita reported record turnout.[15] |
Route
The main event takes place along a four-mile stretch of Douglas Avenue, running from the Arkansas River in downtown eastward through the Douglas Design District to Hillside Avenue.[16] Additional Open Streets ICT events have been held in north Wichita (along 21st Street), in the NoMar district, and at Wichita State University.[17]
Activities
Open Streets ICT features fitness classes such as yoga and Zumba, live performances by local musicians, food trucks, children’s activities, and temporary art installations. Businesses along the route often extend their hours and operate sidewalk sales to coincide with the event.
Reception and recognition
Local media have described Open Streets ICT as one of Wichita’s signature community events, highlighting its scale and inclusive atmosphere.
In 2020, the event was recognized by the Kansas Recreation and Park Association with an award for innovative community programming.
See also
References
- ^"City of Wichita announces record turnout for Open Streets ICT". City of Wichita. September 25, 2024. Retrieved September 18, 2025.
- ^"Open Streets ICT". City of Wichita. Retrieved September 18, 2025.
- ^"First Open Streets ICT draws thousands downtown". The Wichita Eagle. September 24, 2017. Retrieved September 18, 2025.
- ^"Champions: Open Streets ICT". City of Wichita. Retrieved September 18, 2025.
- ^"Open Streets ICT expands with more events". KMUW. August 26, 2019. Retrieved September 18, 2025.
- ^"WSU, Shocker Neighborhood host Open Streets ICT". Wichita State University. March 2025. Retrieved September 18, 2025.
- ^"First Open Streets ICT draws thousands downtown". The Wichita Eagle. September 24, 2017. Retrieved September 18, 2025.
- ^"Champions: Open Streets ICT". City of Wichita. Retrieved September 18, 2025.
- ^"Thousands enjoy Open Streets ICT on Douglas". KWCH. October 14, 2024. Retrieved September 18, 2025.
- ^"Champions: Open Streets ICT". City of Wichita. Retrieved September 18, 2025.
- ^"Open Streets ICT cancelled amid coronavirus concerns". The Wichita Eagle. April 2020. Retrieved September 18, 2025.
- ^"Open Streets ICT returns Sunday". KMUW. September 18, 2021. Retrieved September 18, 2025.
- ^"Open Streets ICT offers Wichita 'a different way to experience the city'". KMUW. September 23, 2022. Retrieved September 18, 2025.
- ^"Open Streets ICT – NoMar". Open Streets ICT. Retrieved September 18, 2025.
- ^"City of Wichita announces record turnout for Open Streets ICT". KSNTV. September 25, 2024. Retrieved September 18, 2025.
- ^"Thousands enjoy Open Streets ICT on Douglas". KWCH. October 14, 2024. Retrieved September 18, 2025.
- ^"WSU, Shocker Neighborhood host Open Streets ICT". Wichita State University. March 2025. Retrieved September 18, 2025.
