The fourth annual Car Free Day event, presented by TransLink, is set to transform McAllister Avenue in downtown Port Coquitlam on Saturday, August 29 from 1:00 to 8:00 p.m. This year the event returns with an even larger footprint, expanding onto a portion of Shaughnessy Street to make room for more of the entertainment, food, and family activities that have made the day a community favourite.
The festival invites residents and visitors to walk, cycle, or take transit as they enjoy a day packed with entertainment, delicious food, and family-friendly activities. Exploring downtown Port Coquitlam is expected to be easier and more enjoyable than ever for attendees.
“Car Free Day has become one of the highlights of our summer, and it keeps getting better every year,” says Mayor Brad West. “When we close the street to cars and open it up to people, something special happens. Neighbours who might only wave from their driveways end up spending an afternoon together. With an expanded footprint this year, there is even more room for families to explore, more space for our local businesses to shine, and more reasons to come downtown and enjoy the day.”
The day's schedule includes:
Two stage areas with live performances: the Main Stage on McAllister Avenue from 1:00 to 8:00 p.m. and the Family Stage in Leigh Square from 1:00 to 6:00 p.m.
A wide variety of food from local food trucks and vendors
A beverage garden featuring local alcoholic beverages
A market showcasing local vendors, so bring your reusable bags
Interactive displays and booths from local businesses and community groups, including electric vehicles on display
A games area, plus arts and crafts for kids and families
Free entertainment for all ages, including live music and roving entertainers
Spectacular Fountain Shows at Leigh Square 7:30 p.m. and 8:30 p.m.
New this year, and to accommodate the expanded event, a portion of Shaughnessy Street between McAllister Avenue and Leigh Square Place will be closed to traffic. Detours will be in place, and drivers are encouraged to plan ahead and expect delays in the downtown area on event day.
The following road closures will be in effect on Saturday, August 29:
Shaughnessy Street between McAllister Avenue and Leigh Square Place (new this year)
McAllister Avenue from Shaughnessy Street to Mary Hill Road
Donald Street from McAllister Avenue to Wilson Avenue
TransLink is a proud supporter of Car Free Day, aligning with its ongoing commitment to promoting sustainable transportation. TransLink actively encourages sustainable transportation to local destinations through campaigns like the Ride & Shine Campaign, which this year offers a bike valet service, discounts to local summer destinations, and a series of Car Free festivals. Attendees will also be encouraged to take a car-free pledge.
Event-goers are encouraged to take transit, walk or cycle to the festival. There will be a free bike valet to securely park bikes, located in the small parking lot on the corner of McAllister Avenue and Donald Avenue.
“With its expanded footprint reaching onto Shaughnessy Street and the Family Stage in Leigh Square, Car Free Day offers a richer downtown experience and showcases the best of our community,” said Mayor Brad West.
Car-free days take place across the country and aim to inspire people to get out of their cars, interact with each other, and explore alternative modes of transportation.
Car Free Day is proudly funded by TransLink.
Sponsors include:
BCLC - Gold Sponsor
Port Coquitlam Business Improvement Association (PoCo BIA) - Silver Sponsor
Global BC - Media Sponsor
Tri-Cities Are Awesome - Bronze Sponsor
Haven Optometry - Community Sponsor
More details about Car Free Day activities and schedules are posted at portcoquitlam.ca/carfreeday.
