City transforming streets into destinations: King William Street

HAMILTON, ON – The City of Hamilton invites residents and visitors to spend time on King William Street this summer. The iconic restaurant row will transform into a vibrant pedestrian-only hub starting Wednesday, July 16, 2025. 

The reimagined space will feature outdoor public seating, dynamic programming and a welcoming atmosphere designed to bring the community together. As part of the City’s broader downtown revitalization and economic development goals, this initiative will create a lively destination for all.

“Together, Hamiltonians are building a more vibrant, inclusive and community-focused downtown core,” said Mayor Andrea Horwath. “I am thrilled that this summer, we are transforming King William Street into a pedestrian-only destination. With the energy and creativity of our residents leading the way, this is a proud moment for our city. I can’t wait to see King William Street come alive as a dynamic public space where neighbours connect, local culture shines, and our small businesses thrive.”

Date: Wednesday, July 16, 2025 to Sunday, September 14, 2025

Location: King William Street from James Street North to Hughson Street North

Access: Residents can walk freely on the street! King William Street from James Street North to Hughson Street North will be fully closed with no vehicles permitted from Monday, July 14 at 7 am to Monday, September 15 at 6 pm. 

Key highlights

• Opening day (July 16): Join the Hamilton Philharmonic Orchestra for a lunch time concert and Hamilton Fringe Festival for opening night festivities.
• Meet and greet (Monday to Saturday): The Downtown Hamilton BIA team will be on site to greet visitors and support festivities. 
• Hamilton Fringe Festival takeover (July 16 to 27): King William Street will serve as the heart of the Hamilton Fringe Festival, featuring daily programming and live stage entertainment. 
• Pop-up performances: Live acoustic sets from local musicians, weekly concerts from the Hamilton Philharmonic Orchestra and the 73 'Til Infinity dance series.
• Shop local: Artisan goods, handmade treasures and local vendors during pop-up market days. 
• Supercrawl send-off (September 12 to 14): Wrap-up the summer season at Hamilton’s legendary Supercrawl music and arts festival, which will be held on James Street North and surrounding streets. 
• Come together on King William: Dynamic seating that invites people to relax, socialize and find comfort in the space. 
• Taste the neighbourhood: Restaurants lining the area, visitors are steps away from great patios and delicious food! 

“This transformation is about more than creating a pedestrian zone - it's about creating a place for people,” said City Manager Marnie Cluckie. “King William Street reflects Hamilton’s creativity, culture, local character, and community spirit. I’m excited to see the work of our City teams and the Downtown Hamilton BIA come to life in this vibrant public space.”

For full schedule details, visit Hamilton.ca/KingWilliamSummer. The schedule will be updated regularly with additional details and new events. 

Quick Facts

• King William Street pedestrianization is presented by the City of Hamilton in collaboration with the Downtown Hamilton BIA. 
• Event staff managed by the Downtown Hamilton BIA will be on site daily Monday through Saturday from approximately 10 am to 8 pm. 
• In 2024, the City of Hamilton’s Tourism and Culture Division temporarily transformed King William Street into a pedestrianized space on seven (7) select days. The initiative returns this year with an expanded scope.