Car-Free Day turns Vancouver streets into pedestrian parties

Credit: Flickr / dooq

Pedestrians take back the streets on Car-Free Day Vancouver

Ditch your car and hit up a street party in five  communities for Car-free Vancouver Day

Looking for something free to do this weekend? How about something car-free?

Sunday, June 20 is Car-Free Vancouver Day in five Lower Mainland communities, and that means it’s a rare chance for pedestrians to literally take back the streets and enjoy their community without having to look both ways before crossing the road.

Each community celebration will have its own flavour. Pick your party and, of course, leave your car at home.

Commercial Drive (1st Ave to Venables): 10–8 p.m.

With more than 30,000 people expected in the community that originated Car-Free Day, Commercial Dr. opens at 10 am and the festival begins at noon with food, music and fun. And if you really can’t live without your wheels, strap on some rollerskates and join the DJ-led roller disco.

Kitsilano (Wallace St to Burrard St and the seaside to 16th Ave)

Privately hosted block parties throughout the neighbourhood mark Kitsilano’s car-free party style. Join one or host your own.
 

Main Street (from 16th to 33rd Aves): 10–10 p.m. ?

As the street fills with vendors, entertainers, musicians, Roller Girls and street hockey enthusiasts, join the fray and enjoy Main Street from a different vantage point. Seventeen whole blocks will be closed to traffic, with the Vancouver Peoples’ Summit claiming Main from 29th to 33rd Aves.

North Vancouver (Lonsdale Ave between 3rd and Esplanade): 12–6 p.m.

The newest addition to the Car-Free Day family, North Van will be rocking it beach style with reggae, a surf band, bike and skateboard demos, and Slushies.

West End (Denman St between Robson and Davie): 12–6 p.m.

An area already known for its vibrant community and pedestrian appeal, the West End Car-Free Day party includes food, music, spoken word, dancing, foosball and a kids’ zone.  ??