Car Free Earth Day will take place this Saturday in Manhattan, one day before Earth Day. The event was created to raise awareness about environmentally safe modes of transportation for New York City residents.
Now in its third year, the event turns the city streets that are usually congested with cars and traffic into public spaces for New Yorkers to enjoy public art, performances and workshops aimed to educate people about the environment and alternative forms of transportation. During the day, cars will not be allowed in parts of the city to allow New Yorkers to walk and cycle along the route.
During the event, there will be six rest stops at various spots on Broadway for New Yorkers to enjoy Earth Day-related programming:
Times Square — 42nd Street
Garment District — 38th Street
Herald Square — 34th Street
Flatiron District — 23rd Street
Union Square — 14th Street
In addition to Broadway, residents in Washington Heights will also be able to participate in the car-free initiative. There will be Car Free Earth Day programming for nine blocks on St. Nicholas Avenue from 181st Street to 190th Street. Much like Broadway, there will be performances, and educational programs geared toward sustainability and climate change.
This year, Citi Bike partnered with Mastercard and will offer free day passes on Car Free Earth Day. If you enjoy cycling, you can sign up to take advantage of this offer or you can bring your own bike and enjoy 30-blocks of New York City without any cars on the road.
When Is Car Free Earth Day?
Car Free Earth Day will take place on Saturday, April 21 from 9 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Eastern Standard Time on Broadway and from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. in Washington Heights.
Car Free Earth Day programming
During the event, there will be several programs available ranging from fitness classes to art exhibitions to music and dance performances. For a complete schedule and list of all the events scheduled, visit the Car Free Earth Day Programming Schedule Page.
Car Free Earth Day street closures
According to the New York City Department of Transportation, the following streets will be closed for the event.
— Broadway between 47th Street and 17th Street
— 33rd Street between Broadway and 5th Avenue
— Saint Nicholas Avenue between West 181st Street and 190th Street
If you plan on driving in the city on Saturday, just be aware it might be difficult getting around if you need to cross Broadway to reach your destination.
