Last updated 2/13/2023
We are excited to celebrate our 2023 season with three events! Join us for this special occasion as we open the streets and gather with the community. Below you’ll find information addressing some frequently asked questions about our events this year.
2023 Events
What are the dates?
This year we will have three events:
- Sunday, May 7th in East Portland - 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
- Sunday, June 25th in Northeast Cully - 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
- Sunday, September 10th in Southwest Portland- 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
What are the routes?
Here is the route for the East Portland event on 5/7
Here is the route for the Northeast Cully event on June 25th
Here is the route for the Southwest Portland event on September 10th
What’s new for 2023?
We'll be hosting a new route in Southwest Portland's Multnomah neighborhood. The last time we visited this neighborhood was in 2014 so we are thrilled to return!
Why only three events?
Here are some of the goals that guided our decision to host three events this year:
Maintain flexibility to be able to adapt to any potential changes in the COVID-19 pandemic
Prioritize three neighborhoods that have been underserved by Sunday Parkways in the past
Create events that are equitable, accessible, inclusive and reflect the communities they take place in
Are there resources to help get my bike ready for these events?
Yes! A bike fair will be hosted in each neighborhood before the Sunday Parkways event to help people get ready for a day of fun in the sun.
Activities are FREE and there’s something for everyone, including:
Biking lessons for children with activities to learn about bike safety skills
Learn-to-ride coaching for adults just starting out on a bike
Quick-fix Bike Repair to make sure your bike is rolling smoothly and safely
E-Bike Demos come see a variety of e-bike options that are rising in popularity
The East Portland Neighborhood Bike Fair will be held at Ventura Park Elementary on April 14, 2023, from 3:45 p.m. to 6:45 p.m. and is a free family-friendly event.
The Cully Neighborhood Bike Fair will be held at Rigler Elementary on June 2, 2023, from 2:15 p.m. to 5:15 p.m. and is a free family-friendly event.
The Southwest Neighborhood Bike Fair will be held at Mittleman Jewish Community Center,Schnitzer Family Campus on July 23, 2023, from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. and is a free family-friendly event
Why aren’t we doing in-person events in other neighborhoods this year?
In adhering to the City’s goals on diversity, equity and inclusion, we have selected areas that have been historically underserved by Sunday Parkways, and where street closures are especially important for community members to try biking, walking, and rolling.
Want to create your own mini Sunday Parkways? There are some great resources for throwing your own celebration.
Close your street and host a block party with the Healthy Blocks program.
Organize a Pedalpalooza ride!
What can neighbors, businesses and other organizations along the routes expect?
Streets along the route will be closed off to motorized traffic, with very limited access for people living on the route. There will be designated crossing points along the routes for motorized traffic, but it is best to avoid driving in the area during the event as you might experience long delays. In the past, Sunday Parkways events have attracted up to 25,000 participants. Participants walk, roll or cycle at low speeds along routes. There are spots in the parks and along the route where circulation slows for food vendors, non-profit & sponsor information tables and live entertainment. This is a family-friendly event that encourages people to feel safe and enjoy walking, biking, rolling and playing in the streets.
How to get involved
Can I donate to Sunday Parkways?
Of course! Sunday Parkways relies on sponsorship, volunteers and donors. Any little bit helps!
Show your Sunday Parkways support all year long!
You can purchase Sunday Parkways swag while also supporting this beloved program! Whether you are gifting someone or treating yourself, Portland Bureau of Transportation’s Zazzle store is the place for PBOT merch. The best part is that the proceeds from your purchase go towards supporting Portland Sunday Parkways.
My school/church/sports/community group wants to take part. What can we do?
We’d love to have you! There are plenty of volunteer opportunities that double as a fundraising event for your organization. Your organization will be paid for each adult volunteer who works a full shift.
Sunday Parkways Volunteer Information
Can I set up my food cart?
Sunday Parkways loves highlighting local businesses, including food vendors. To learn more about vendor opportunities please complete an interest form by clicking on the link below.
Sunday Parkways Vendor Information
Can I perform at Sunday Parkways?
Bring on the talent! Email PortlandSundayParkways@portlandoregon.gov to learn more about opportunities to perform at Sunday Parkways. And remember ANYBODY can set up in their front yard or bring an instrument to the park. The more the merrier!
Safety at Sunday Parkways
How will you make Sunday Parkways safe?
Sunday Parkways routes will be blocked off from car traffic, aside from a few designated crossing points which will be heavily monitored by route volunteers.
But safety always starts with each individual. Sunday Parkways encourages everyone to,
Wear a helmet and any other protective gear.
Move slowly particularly in areas with a lot of people.
Communicate with those around you using turn signals.
Be aware of your surroundings and fellow riders.
What if there is a change in COVID-19? How are you making decisions about hosting an in-person event?
The Sunday Parkways Team will continue to monitor the conditions of the COVID-19 health pandemic and plan to follow all state guidance from the Oregon Health Authority to ensure the health and safety of all community members.
Sunday Parkways encourages non-vaccinated participants to consider wearing a mask.
Community guidelines
Are pets allowed?
Of course! Any leashed pet that is comfortable around people is allowed to join in the fun! We ask that youdo not use “extend-a-leashes." If you bring dogs, please be sure to use your pooper scooper!
Is alcohol or marijuana allowed on the routes?
Participants should comply to state and local laws. Consumption of alcohol and marijuana are not allowed on city streets or at parks (without a permit).
Can we have a cookout in a park?
You can, but you’ll need a reservation through Portland Parks & Recreation.
Picnic Reservation Information
Can I ride my electric unicycle or bike?
Yes, but you must keep the speed below 10 mph.
Can we bring strollers?
Yes! Everyone is welcome to participate, especially children and families.
About Sunday Parkways
Is Sunday Parkways a race?
No, there is no competitive aspect to Sunday Parkways. In fact, we encourage everyone to slow down, take their time and get to know their neighbors.
Which direction does traffic flow?
Portland Sunday Parkways traffic flows both ways, much like a traditional open street. There's no start or end point along these routes. Pick where you want to start and join in on the fun!
How is this event paid for?
Sunday Parkways events are funded through a mix of sponsorships, donations and public funds.
Why is the City paying for this?
Portland has very ambitious goals for transitioning people away from driving alone into alternative modes of transportation such as bicycling, public transit, and walking. Sunday Parkways is an innovative and effective strategy to reach people in Portland who haven’t already started riding and walking so they can try it in a traffic-free, safe and fun environment.
The key goals of Sunday Parkways events are:
Connecting people to their neighborhood parks and community groups.
Providing free family-friendly activities in underserved communities.
Showcasing infrastructure improvements that support walking and bicycling.
Encouraging physical activity to increase overall health and well-being.
Why Sundays?
Sunday was chosen because it has the lowest auto traffic volumes of any day of the week. With good planning and communication, we work to decrease inconveniences.
Couldn’t find what you were looking for? Please contact us by email at PortlandSundayParkways@portlandoregon.gov, or by phone at 503-823-7599.