DOT hosts several large-scale, annual car-free events to reimagine the streets of New York City as more inviting public spaces for walking, cycling, playing, and much more—without the noise and congestion of cars. These events temporarily transform major streets and corridors into active public spaces, providing opportunities for outdoor recreation, cultural programming, and public engagement. Through interagency coordination with various city agencies, these events encourage New Yorkers and visitors alike to rediscover the built environment and imagine new possibilities for its use.
Summer Streets
Summer Streets is an annual celebration of New York City's most valuable public space—its streets. On five Saturdays in the summer months, from 7:00 AM to at least 3:00 PM, nearly twenty miles of NYC's streets are open for people to play, run, walk and bike. All activities at Summer Streets are free of charge and designed for people of all ages and ability levels to share the streets respectfully.
NYC DOT, in partnership with the City of New York, launched Summer Streets in August 2008 commencing this annual tradition. Summer Streets provides space for healthy recreation and encourages New Yorkers to use more sustainable forms of transportation. In 2024, Summer Streets expanded to all five boroughs, creating nearly 20 miles of car-free streets. In the same year, nearly 500,000 participants enjoyed free activities at designated rest stops along the route.
Trick-or-Streets
Trick-or-Streets is a Halloween-themed initiative that transforms select streets into car-free zones, creating safe and festive environments for trick-or-treating, community gatherings, and public space activations. In 2024, NYC DOT partnered with Open Streets, plazas, and other corridors throughout October and on Halloween to add pedestrian spaces during one of the busiest times of the year. The program included more than 100 car-free events across all five boroughs, with signature locations featuring live music, circus acts, comedic performances, jugglers, and more.
Car-Free Earth Day
Car Free Earth Day is an annual event to celebrate Earth Day by promoting environmental activism and education. The event is held on the Saturday before or immediately after Earth Day and features programming at signature and partner locations citywide, focusing on climate change, sustainability, and related topics. The initiative encourages New Yorkers to reconsider their relationship with public spaces and sustainable transportation. Activities include educational workshops, performances, fitness classes, and environmental programming designed to engage and inspire the community.