Car-Free 'Meet Me On Milwaukee' Events to Return to Wicker Park in 2026 After Successful Run

By Socialhood News · Il/Chicago/Wicker Park · November 5, 2025

The popular 'Meet Me On Milwaukee' program that temporarily banned cars along Milwaukee Avenue in Wicker Park for several Sundays this year has been deemed a success and will return in 2026. The events, which closed Milwaukee Avenue between the North/Damen intersection and Ashland Avenue to vehicles for seven hours on the last Sunday of August, September, and October, created a pedestrian paradise for thousands of visitors.

The initiative brought significant foot traffic to local businesses, with many shops setting up sidewalk sales and even welcoming trick-or-treaters during the October event. The program has received praise from Mayor Brandon Johnson, who called it a "model and an example" for how business corridors can thrive. "This is also a testament to how our economy can continue to grow and thrive by promoting local businesses and creating spaces where we're intentional about attracting consumers to our communities," Johnson said during the August event.

The collaborative effort between Alderman Daniel La Spata (1st) and the Wicker Park Bucktown Chamber of Commerce aimed to "reimagine" the thoroughfare without cars and drive foot traffic to area businesses. While specific plans for 2026 are still in development, residents can share feedback at the upcoming Wicker Park Advisory Council meeting on November 13 at 6:30 p.m. in the Wicker Park Field House.

Sources:
1. https://blockclubchicago.org/2025/11/03/car-free-meet-me-on-milwaukee-events-will-return-to-wicker-park-next-year/