Car Free Day took place on Sunday 22 Sept 2024, organised by Dublin City Council. It was part of European Mobility Week 2024, which itself is an annual event promoted by the European Commision on Sustainable Urban Mobility. The focus this year was on designated spaces for citizens to congregate and enjoy their environment in a more community focused and sustainable way.

The Irish Cycling Campaign was represented at the Dublin event thanks to the Dublin Cycling Campaign volunteers Colm, Martin, Elizabeth, Frank, Ellen, Will and Miren who helped out by signing up new members and spreading the word about the Campaign. There were other cycling groups at Car Free Day such as Bleeper Bikes, Bolt Bikes, Moby Bikes and a team from the Discovery Centre in Ballymun who were fixing bikes as well as an outdoors cinema and cycling skills workshops.

Our Dublin Cycling Campaign stall was delighted to receive a visit from Cllr. Donna Cooney, Deputy Lord Mayor from Dublin City Council who is a great supporter of Dublin Cycling Campaign and an active cyclist.

Closing off Custom House quay generated a great reaction and lively streets, and families with young children enjoyed the day with great attractions including Masamba Band and chess challenges. It was also great to have the opportunity to promote the sustainable transport methods we can use in the city as an alternative to cars and experience the benefits of freeing up space on our city’s streets.

Article by Miren Maialen, a member of Dublin Cycling Campaign

Photo courtesy of Photographer Chris Shelley

You can also watch the City Council mini-video on the event which includes Dublin Cycling Campaign, and check out the Council webpage on the event.