Car-free and Carefree

Capitol Square and John Nolen Drive were closed to motor vehicles from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 25, creating a six mile bike path that allowed participants to enjoy a car-free day.

Ride the Drive was inspired by a tradition in Bogotá, Colombia known as ciclovia.  The event has been held annually in Madison since 2009.

Madison’s Ride the Drive team created a carefree space for cyclists, runners, skaters, and all those who wanted to experience the city in a new way. Vendors provided water, snacks, live music, prize drawings and official Ride the Drive merchandise to participants.

Although the event ended two hours early due to cold weather and rain, 2,000 participants attended.

For more pictures from the event, check out the slideshow below.