Car-free Sunday
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September 22
Car-free Sunday
Turn off the engine and hit the streets - it's Car-free Sunday! Join in on this eco-friendly movement and enjoy a day of biking, walking, or public transit.
Introduction
Get ready to hit the streets and enjoy a day without cars on Car-free Sunday, happening this September 22! This event originated in Belgium in the late 1970s as a way to promote alternative modes of transportation and reduce air pollution. Since then, it has spread to cities all over the world, with people coming together to walk, bike, and skate through their car-free neighborhoods. It's not only good for the environment, but it also encourages a sense of community and allows for new experiences and perspectives. So grab your walking shoes or your bike and join in on this fun and eco-friendly celebration!
Car-free Sunday Timeline
1970s
Car-Free Sunday Inception
The Car-Free Sunday concept originated in Belgium as a public awareness campaign to promote alternative forms of transportation.
1992
European Car-Free Day
The European Union launched a continent-wide Car-Free Day campaign every 22nd of September to encourage the reduction of air pollution.
2000s
Global Recognition
Car-Free Sunday gains recognition and begins to be celebrated in cities worldwide, such as Jakarta, Ottawa, and Bogota.
2011
Brussels Car-Free Sunday
Brussels introduces a Car-Free Sunday, drawing 150,000 participants in the first year, making it one of the biggest car-free events worldwide.
2018
London's Car-Free Day
London joins the movement, hosting its first Car-Free Day, closing 50 streets around Tower Bridge and London Bridge to traffic.
How to Celebrate Car-free Sunday
1
Have a car-free picnic
Gather some friends and have a picnic in a park or other outdoor space. Bring along some snacks, games, and enjoy the car-free atmosphere while spending time with loved ones.
2
Explore your city by foot or bike
Take advantage of the car-free streets and explore your city by walking or biking. You may discover new places and hidden gems that you wouldn't have seen if you were in a car.
3
Join a community event
Many cities organize events on Car-free Sunday, such as street fairs, concerts, and farmers markets. Check out what's happening in your area and join in on the festivities!
4
Have a car-free day challenge
Challenge yourself to go the entire day without using a car. This can be a fun and eco-friendly way to celebrate Car-free Sunday and reduce your carbon footprint.
5
Volunteer for a car-free initiative
Support the car-free movement by volunteering for a local initiative, such as helping to organize car-free events or promoting alternative modes of transportation in your community.
Why We Love Car-free Sunday
A
It promotes a healthy and eco-friendly lifestyle
Car-free Sunday is a great way to encourage people to try alternative modes of transportation such as biking, walking or public transit. Not only does this reduce air pollution and carbon emissions, but it also promotes a more active and healthy lifestyle for individuals!
B
It brings communities together
On Car-free Sunday, streets are closed off to cars and become open spaces for people to walk, bike, play, and socialize. This creates a sense of community and encourages interactions between neighbors and strangers alike, making it a great opportunity to meet new people and strengthen relationships.
C
It gives the environment a break
Cars are one of the primary sources of air pollution in cities. By having one day each week without cars on the roads, we can significantly reduce emissions and give the environment a much-needed break. It's a small but impactful way to contribute to the health of our planet.
Car-free Sunday Dates
Year
Date
Day
2023
Sep 22
Friday
2024
Sep 22
Sunday
2025
Sep 22
Monday
2026
Sep 22
Tuesday
2027
Sep 22
Wednesday