Sunny Saturday weather made for one hot Car Free Day Surrey in Newton on June 7 when the event returned to the neighbourhood's town centre for a fourth year.
The free, all-ages street festival is among several in Metro Vancouver presented by TransLink, local municipalities and business improvement associations, including the one in Newton.
From noon to 8 p.m., people were entertained by a Family Zone, climbing wall, face painting, a stage for acoustic music by Glisha and Pat Chessell, dance battles, DJs, food trucks and more, set up on 137 Street between 72A and 74 avenues. The street was closed to traffic from 7 a.m. until around 11 p.m.
Festival-goers were urged to leave their car behind, naturally.
“We’re so excited to welcome people to experience our neighbourhood on foot this summer, and to help connect everyone to Newton without relying on cars,” Philip Aguirre, executive director of Newton Business Improvement Association, said before the event.
“Events like this bring our community together, support local businesses, and show what’s possible when we prioritize people, connection, and livable streets.”
Car Free Day festivals aim to highlight how small changes, like walking, biking, or taking transit, can have a big impact.
“This summer, I encourage everyone to get out, explore their neighbourhoods, and enjoy these events by taking transit, walking, or cycling,” says TransLink CEO Kevin Quinn. “These events are a great way to celebrate local communities, small businesses, and connect with each other.”
