As our urban centers have evolved over time – expanding and contracting to meet societal and economic shifts – one key element remains constant: the power of cities lies in the life that takes place in between the buildings. The world’s most dynamic cities offer opportunities for people of all backgrounds to gather and share in experiences without barriers or division. One of the most powerful examples of this takes place every Sunday, just a short plane ride away from Denver.
Last month, the SideCar PR team took to Mexico City to experience the city’s iconic Ciclovía in anticipation of Denver’s own upcoming ¡Viva! Streets event, which will open downtown streets to people on four Sundays this summer.
In 36 short hours, we experienced the magic of North America’s largest city, and the true joy of participating in its weekly “Muévete en Bici” (Move on Bike).
Working with the Downtown Denver Partnership, SideCar is leading public relations and communications for the launch of ¡Viva! Streets, which kicks off Sunday, May 14 from 8 a.m. – 2 p.m. ¡Viva! Streets. The event covers 3.5 miles of downtown streets from Welton and Downing Streets to Broadway and Alameda, bringing the iconic Bogotá-born Ciclovía to Denver and welcoming the community to walk, bike, skate, roll or dance along car-free streets.
As proud city builders, we know that the best way to understand cities and traditions like the Ciclovía is to immerse ourselves – which is exactly what we did in Mexico City, where over 50 kilometers (or 30+ miles) of city streets are opened to people every Sunday. As we look ahead to ¡Viva! Streets, here are five takeaways from one of the largest Ciclovías in the world: