CicLAvia: 6 Miles of Open Streets to Explore Leimert Park & Historic South Central | Sun. Dec. 3 2023

Picture this Angeleno’s dream come true: a car-free Martin Luther King, Jr. Boulevard. Soon, that dream will become a reality, if only for a day. A remarkable event is approaching that promises a unique and vibrant experience in the heart of South LA. On Sunday, December 3rd, between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m., CicLAvia – South LA, presented by Metro, will celebrate its 13th year of fostering dynamic public spaces and promoting active transportation. This year, the 49th car-free event will connect Leimert Park and Historic South Central over a 6-mile route.

CicLAvia is an inclusive event open to all ages and abilities. It’s a fantastic opportunity for participants to engage in various activities—jogging, cycling, skating, walking, or simply reveling in the car-free streets. The event is free for all; no reservations required. Just show up at any point along the route and immerse yourself in the festivities.

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The event will feature five Hubs along the route, offering a range of activities and programs. These hubs serve as rest areas and meeting points, providing family-friendly activities, restrooms, water refilling stations, bike repair services, and first aid facilities. Participants can also enjoy free pedicab rides sponsored by AARP at each information booth.

For those seeking to plan their CicLAvia adventure, an Interactive Digital Map is available. This map allows attendees to explore businesses, local attractions, and activities along the route, ensuring a well-guided and enjoyable experience.

Romel Pascual, CicLAvia’s Executive Director, expressed enthusiasm about the event’s return to South LA, stating, “Our individual experiences become a collective experience. There’s always something remarkably special when our streets are filled with connection and joy. We are grateful for the partnerships with the South LA community, and we are excited for an amazing December 3rd.””

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CicLAvia draws inspiration from Bogotá’s ciclovía, an initiative that transforms streets into public parks. Now with over 280 miles of open streets, the event celebrates the diversity of Los Angeles’ communities and advocates for a more sustainable, people-powered mode of transportation.

It’s important to note that only people-powered vehicles are allowed at CicLAvia. Electric scooters, skateboards, and other non-people-powered vehicles are prohibited. The event emphasizes safety, with participants assuming all known and unknown risks. Detailed safety information can be found on the CicLAvia website.

Along the way there is shopping at local businesses, access to cultural and architectural gems, using open streets as spaces to connect with each other, and making a positive impact on the environment by creating a more sustainable and climate resilient city and region. Over the past 13 years CicLAvia has helped communities re-imagine a greener and cleaner Los Angeles, while also promoting equitable transportation options, healthier lifestyles, and closer connections to community.

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This event isn’t just about a day of fun; it’s about fostering a city that is cleaner, greener, and more closely connected. Through this initiative, CicLAvia has played a pivotal role in re-imagining a more sustainable and equitable Los Angeles, promoting healthier lifestyles and strengthening community ties.

As the 2023 season comes to a close, CicLAvia’s celebration marks a momentous occasion—a testament to the success of 13 years in transforming the streets of Los Angeles. Stay tuned for the 2024 CicLAvia schedule, and join in the movement towards a more vibrant and people-centric city.

This event, while fostering enjoyment and community engagement, also carries the responsibility of fostering a culture of safety and mutual respect among participants. It’s an opportunity to explore, connect, and celebrate the diverse and thriving city of Los Angeles.

Hope to see you December 3rd on the streets of Leimert Park!

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