In a modern world dominated by screens and smartphones, events like Síclovía are a refreshing, energizing and fun way for the entire family to sign-off, unplug and adventure around designated car-free San Antonio streets on bikes, skates or in running shoes. The cycle-centric concept Siclovía (Spanish for “cycleway”) has its origins in 1976 Columbia, when the choreographed weekly events became implemented and supported by the city of Bogotá. Since then, the world has seen a trend in adaptations taking place all over the globe — in Australia, Brazil, Canada, Mexico and all over the U.S. San Antonio’s adaptation, launched in 2011 as a collaboration between the YMCA, the Mayor’s Fitness Council and others, is considered the Alamo City’s “largest free health and wellness event” and routinely draws more than 65,000 participants.
The Spring Síclovía event has partnered with the San Antonio World Heritage office, promoting the protection and preservation of cultural and national heritage worldwide. Síclovía’s route covers 2.5 miles, starting at South Flores and East César Chavez, continuing downtown on South St. Mary’s to the intersection of Roosevelt and Steves to its end at Mission Concepción. Designated Reclovía areas can be found along the route offering live music, group exercises, food, water and restrooms.
Free, 11am-4pm Sun, Mar. 26, S. Flores St. at E. César Chávez Blvd. to Mission Concepción (807 Mission), ymcasatx.org/siclovia.