They are celebrating years of community, health and leadership.
The City of Salinas will come alive as the streets open up for the 13th annual Ciclovía Salinas, an event that invites walkers, cyclists, skateboarders and everyone to reclaim the mile-and-a-half stretch of Alisal Street for fun, fitness and community connection.
The event held on Sunday, Oct. 4, is led and organized by youth, making it a powerful platform for young people to develop leadership skills and deepen their bonds with their community.
“This year we have 80 youth serve from different high schools that got together to plan this event for the community,” said Alisal High School senior, Kimberly Lunes during public comment at the Tuesday, Sept. 29 City Council meeting.
Since its inception, Ciclovía Salinas has grown into a beloved tradition and with the support of Building Healthy Communities, Monterey County. The event transcends a simple street closure; it’s a celebration of physical and mental well-being, civic participation and local pride.
For many, Ciclovía is a chance to step outside the usual routines, interact with neighbors, and experience a safe, vibrant public space. Juana Alvarez, a former volunteer and now a mentor to the younger generation, describes Ciclovía as transformative.
“It was through Ciclovía that I realized the power that my voice had as a young person,” she said in a statement. Her story embodies the event’s mission to create a sense of belonging and foster the next generation of community advocates.
The day’s festivities will include music, community resources and raffles offering prizes such as bicycles. Ciclovía unites neighborhoods, supports small businesses and it’s a movement toward a healthier, more united future.
Ciclovía Salinas will be held from 10am-2pm at Alisal Street between Front Street and Sanborn Road.
For information, visit cicloviasalinas.org.