You might be asking yourself, “what’s a ciclovia?” and you aren’t alone. Ciclovia is a Spanish word that means “bike path.” Around here though, it means shutting down the streets of Chattanooga for cyclists and pedestrians to enjoy a full day of fun throughout our vibrant neighborhoods. Sounds fun, right?
The 1st Annual Chattanooga Celebration & Ciclovia will take place Sunday, Oct. 29 and will feature 7 miles of bicycle and pedestrian routes that will run from downtown into the neighborhoods of east Chattanooga. You’ll venture through 6 separate neighborhood block parties that will have live music, food and beverages, and plenty of fun activities for the family to enjoy as you move along the path. The event is free and open to the public, so check out the schedule below:
Block Party 1: Blues, Bikes, & Beer
Stoveworks, 12-2pm
The celebration begins at Stoveworks with live music from R.A. and the Flames and food from local restaurants right in the heart Chattanooga. Instructors from High Point Climbing and Fitness will be hosting a climbing contest and the Chattanooga Football Club’s Chattahooligans will be “kicking” off the celebration with some soccer fun.
Block Party 2: Highland Park Community Festival
Highland Park Commons, 1-3pm
This party kicks off in one of Chattanooga’s most historic neighborhoods, Highland Park. The Bohannons will be providing the tunes and there will be a bounce house, face painting, and carnival games for the kids! If that’s not enough, meet the Chattanooga Roller Girls, enjoy live acrobatic and aerial performances, and add your own art to the giant graffiti wall.
Block Party 3: Ridgedale Art in the Alley
The Alleyway off of Kelly St between Kirby Ave & Vance Ave, 1-3PM
The party continues in one of Chattanooga’s oldest areas, the Ridgedale Neighborhood. Celebrate the neighborhood’s 130th birthday with locally brewed beer, chalk art, pizza, and games for the kids. The historic neighborhood, which includes the McCallie School and the Barking Legs Theater, will be buzzing with activity as our community comes together in a fun and quirky way!
Block Party 4: Kid’s Corner at the Knob
Orchard Knob Elementary School, 2-4pm
If you have a few little ones, you will not want to miss this stop along the path! Kofi Mawuko and his band will be rocking out as you decorate your bike for the Bike Rodeo with Outdoor Chattanooga, explore the ropes course and bounce house, or meet your new “fur-ever” friend from McKamey Animal Shelter and the Humane Educational Society.
Block Party 5: Glass Street Live
Intersection of Glass Street & Dodson Avenue, 3-6pm
Once you’ve explored the city, head to the final block party on Glass Street for the parade! You’ll also be able to enjoy an antique car show or art show, play a game of giant chess, and show off your moves in a break-dance competition before the day comes to an end.
With so many unique activities and events along the path, the Chattanooga Celebration & Ciclovia is truly an event that everyone can enjoy. For more information and to plan your day, visit the website.