World Car Free Day
22 September is World Car Free Day, when all around the world, towns and cities allow people to experience streets free of motor traffic as well as making travel easier for those who rely on private vehicles for health and mobility reasons.
It's a great chance to re-imagine our streets around people. So what can we do to make a difference?
CREATE YOUR OWN PARKLET
Pop-up parks (or 'parklets') can help transform streets as destinations for people, not vehicles. They provide important resting points for people with health and mobility issues.
We have all the information and helpful starting points to transform your street into a place for seating, cycle parking or lanes, gardens, play areas or art.
Anyone can set up a parklet or a pop-up park to transform streets into a vibrant community hot spot. You’ll need permission from your local council, but after that, it can be easier than you might think. Why not work together with your neighbours to improve your local area for everyone who lives there? Find out how to bring a parklet to your street.
TAKE A WALK THROUGH THE SENSES
Whether you're walking to school, work, the shops or simply heading out for some fresh air, World Car Free Day is the perfect opportunity to tune into the sights, sounds and sensations around you.
As you walk, challenge yourself to notice:
- What can you hear? Birdsong, buzzing bees, children's laughter or the rustle of leaves.
- What can you see? Trees changing colour, local wildlife, neighbours and familiar landmarks.
- What can you smell? Flowers in bloom, freshly cut grass or the scent of rain after a shower.
- What can you feel? Sunshine on your face, a cool breeze or leaves crunching beneath your feet.
- What can you taste? A warm drink on your journey or the fresh morning air.
Walking helps us connect with our communities while reducing traffic, improving air quality and making streets more pleasant places for everyone.
GET ACTIVE LOCALLY
Add your voice to the many who are reimagining our streets to put people front and centre. Find out about events around the world and led by our Local Group network across the UK for ideas on how you could take action in your town, city or neighbourhood. Read our blog for World Car Free Day for inspiration.
HOW WE WALK THE WALK
In need of some inspiration this World Car Free Day? Find out how the Living Streets team choose walking over driving whenever – and wherever – possible.
"Some people say that to live a good life in the countryside you need a car to get around but I like the connectedness, calmness and healing that comes from leading a less car-dependent life."
"Walking with little legs can take a bit longer so sometimes we’ll go part of the way by foot. The journey is very much part of our day’s activities." Charlotte on walking with a young family.
"I’ve never considered a car because I’ve always thought it’s a hassle. Insurance, breaking down, the impact it would have on the environment and our health. It’s a no brainer."