Have you ever imagined a street without cars? Just people biking, walking, skating, or dancing freely through the heart of town? Well, this dream is becoming a reality on Sunday, June 22, from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM on Walnut Lane in Princeton!
What is a Ciclovia?
Ciclovía is a Spanish word that means “bike lane,” but the term has grown to represent so much more. Around the world, Ciclovias are car-free events where streets are temporarily closed to car traffic and opened up to people. These events promote healthy living, community engagement, and sustainable transportation.
The History of Ciclovia
The very first Ciclovia took place in Bogotá, Colombia, in 1974.₁ A group of visionary cycling activists were granted permission to host a Gran Manifestación del Pedal or “Great Pedaling Manifestation.” For a few hours, the streets of Bogotá became a haven for bikes and pedestrians.
The event was such a success that it returned the following year. By 1976, it became a public policy in Bogotá under the term “Ciclovia.” Since then, the movement has spread to cities across the globe, from Los Angeles to Paris, bringing communities together and reimagining the way we use our public spaces.
- https://urbancyclinginstitute.org/ciclovia-at-50-thinking-cycling-histories-from-bogota/
Want to learn more about that ride and Princeton’s Ciclovia roots? You can explore more on the Historical Society of Princeton’s website.
Princeton's Ciclovia History
Princeton has its own Ciclovia history. Thanks to efforts by the Historical Society of Princeton and the Princeton Bicycle Advisory Committee (PBAC), our town has hosted several Ciclovia events. May 2017 marked the 4th annual Princeton Ciclovia, coinciding with the Chasing George Ride, a historical bike ride along Quaker Road, tracing George Washington’s journey to the Battle of Princeton.
Get Ready for Ciclovia Princeton 2025!
Mark your calendar: Ciclovia Princeton is happening on Sunday, June 22, from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM on Walnut Lane from Guyot to Hamilton and on Franklin Ave from Walnut to Linden!
Join us as we once again transform our streets into a vibrant community space filled with:
- Games and activities
- Music and dance performances
- Yoga classes
- Local food and coffee vendors (Bring your own mug!)
- Chalk murals
- Bike safety workshops
And much more!
Whether you’re a cyclist, a jogger, or just someone looking for a fun and healthy way to spend your Sunday, Ciclovia Princeton is for you.
