From Guadalajara to New York, the Car Free Sunday movement is rapidly gaining pace.  But what exactly is a Car Free Sunday?

Car Free Sundays are programs where the streets are opened to people and closed to cars.  People traffic replaces car traffic, and the streets become “paved parks” where people of all ages, abilities, and social, economic, or ethnic background can come out and improve their mental, physical, and emotional health. 


Car Free Sundays allow people to walk, bike, dance, skate, and do just about any physical activity on public spaces that are always there but are normally reserved solely for the use of automobiles. An added benefit of Car Free Sundays is that they allow people to discover how easy and convenient it is to reach places by walking and cycling when safe facilities are provided.


There is something so magical and exciting about Car Free Sundays, perhaps because it involves the exploration into a “forbidden” place. It provides a totally different perspective to view and enjoy the city and meet fellow citizens as equals.

More than just fun and games.

Car Free Sundays are more than just a time for exercise.  They are an entire community building and social engagement exercise in itself.  They provide free recreational opportunities and public space for people to meet, interact, and make social connections.

Bogota’s Ciclovia, the original Car Free Sunday which began the late 1970s, has evolved to become an important part of the city’s culture. As a true testament to the influence of the program many people have even met and fell in love at the Ciclovia.

Who’s doing it?

Today, cities around the world are looking to Bogota and following in their footsteps. Fortunately now there are many great examples to learn from, including many recently implemented programs, in large and small cities, in rich and poor countries.

We have listed several cities that we believe are the leaders in implementing Car Free Sundays. These cities have taken the initiative and are quickly becoming an inspiration for the next set of cities looking to start their own Car Free Sundays.  We have provided brief summaries, useful links and unique features of these Car Free Sundays with the hope they inspire other cities to run their own events.

If you want more information on Car Free Sundays or are looking to start a Car Free Sunday in your own city please do not hesitate to contact us for more information, resources and contacts at info@8-80cities.org