On October 28, 2017, Philly Free Streets — a people-powered initiative of the City of Philadelphia that temporarily closes streets to cars so people can walk, bike, and play — brought people from various neighborhoods together for a second year.
Last year’s route connected miles streets along South Street from river to river and up the Schuylkill. This year’s route connected Philadelphia’s Historic District to El Centro de Oro in Fairhill.
Along the route, there were a variety of activities. The Independence Activity Zone at 3rd and Chestnut streets kicked-off with a power walk with Mayor Kenney — during which he walked the entire seven mile round-trip route — and included cardio, yoga, and dance sessions.
The Flavor of the Barrio Activity Zone in El Centro de Oro offered Zumba workouts, Capoeira, Bomba dancers, and handball demonstrations.
Throughout the route, Mural Arts created ground murals at Liberty Lands Park, Al Aqsa Islamic Society, and other locations. Mural Arts also held a paint day at El Bohio restaurant at 5th and Somerset streets.
Many Philly Free Streets participants also played “Pokemon Go” along the route.
And others took the opportunity to run along a route they haven’t before.