Neighborhood art walk returns to Ypsi’s Historic South Side for second year

This story is part of a series about arts and culture in Washtenaw County. It is made possible by the Ann Arbor Art Center, Destination Ann Arbor, Larry and Lucie Nisson, the University of Michigan Arts Initiative, and the University Musical Society.

The Historic South Side Stroll is set to return to Ypsilanti for its second year on Aug. 15, inviting residents and visitors alike to experience an afternoon of local art, live music, and neighborhood connection throughout the city’s Historic South Side.

Presented by the Historic South Side Neighborhood Association (HSSNA) in partnership with local writing and arts nonprofit Dzanc House, the free, family-friendly event transforms neighborhood alleys, backyards, and community spaces into a walkable celebration of Ypsi’s creative spirit. This year’s event will once again showcase dozens of local artists and makers while encouraging attendees to explore one of the city’s historic neighborhoods in a new way.

For Amanda May Moore, creative director and residency coordinator at Dzanc House, feedback on the inaugural South Side Stroll affirmed that the event had found a meaningful place within the community.

“The community’s response to the first South Side Stroll last year was so uplifting and encouraging,” Moore says. “I really felt that the artists were so kind and appreciative with all the volunteer support throughout the event and the houses that hosted us were all so generous and kind to open their yards and homes to the artists vending there.”

She explains that attendees also embraced the opportunity to experience Ypsilanti’s creative community in an intimate neighborhood setting, while volunteers played a key role in helping the event reach a broader audience. While the stroll highlights local artists, Moore explains the event is equally about fostering connections between neighbors and creating opportunities for people to experience the Historic South Side together. By opening private yards and community spaces to the public, she hopes visitors will slow down, meet local artists, and discover new corners of the neighborhood.

“I felt that those who came to attend the event were really thrilled to see artists elevated in Ypsi in this way,” Moore says. ” … I feel really grateful that more neighbors are joining us this year to host more artists.”

That expanded neighborhood participation means attendees will have even more opportunities to interact with local creatives while exploring the South Side. This year’s event will feature approximately 50 local artists and makers, along with downtown Ypsi businesses joining the festivities for the first time, creating new opportunities for visitors to discover the city’s artistic and entrepreneurial communities. The positive reception encouraged Moore to build upon the event’s original vision rather than reinvent it.

Returning visitors will also find several new experiences woven into this year’s stroll. Live musical performances at Dzanc House will be scheduled throughout the afternoon, while a collaborative live painting and sketching event, dubbed “Sketch & Stroll,” will begin at 1 p.m., with completed works available for purchase. New local food vendors and sweet treats will also be available on site.

The Historic South Side Stroll will take place Aug. 15 from 11 a.m.-6 p.m. To view a map of the event and see the local makers participating this year, visit the event’s Instagram page. 

“Ypsilanti is full of so many different creatives that are just so incredibly talented,” Moore says. “I hope they find a sense of wonder and make new friends while on the stroll!”