EVENTS and activities that make the most of Leicester’s people-friendly streets and spaces will be on offer this weekend.
Open Streets takes place on the last Sunday of the month throughout the summer and features a programme of free, pop-up mini festivals designed to encourage people to explore the city by walking, wheeling or cycling.
This month’s Open Streets – which takes place on Sunday 27 July – will be held in collaboration with this year’s Re/action Festival, a celebration of creativity for the climate, organised by local arts and cultural charity Art Reach.
Leicester’s city centre will be transformed into a lively, vibrant bubble of fun, with activities located across Town Hall Square, Clock Tower and Gallowtree Gate – all of which can be explored by bike or on foot.
Visitors can enjoy daring BMX stunts from Danny Butler, rickshaw rides, a group cycle through the city centre and live Samba music from the roaming Sambando band. The popular a Dr Bike workshop will also return.
The free event runs from 1pm, until 4pm.
Assistant city mayor Cllr Geoff Whittle, who leads on environment and transport, said: “Open Streets is a fantastic series of mini-festivals and events that demonstrate how easy it is to get around our city by walking, wheeling or cycling.
“It’s great to see organisers teaming up with the Re/action Festival for this weekend’s event and I’m sure visitors will find lots of fun, free family-friendly activities to explore and enjoy on foot or by bike.”
Paul Steele, Creative Director at Art Reach, said: “All of us at Art Reach are really looking forward to working with Open Streets this year. Together, we’re finding new ways to bring climate-conscious thinking into everyday life – through shared experiences, playful ideas, and bold creativity that brings people together in the heart of the city.”
Re/action Festival will be taking place in the city centre, including Jubilee Square and Humberstone Gate, on Saturday 26 and Sunday 27 July from 11am to 5pm.
Organised by local arts and cultural charity Art Reach, it will feature two days of free outdoor activities for families, including live performances, interactive exhibitions, creative workshops, and much more. For more details visit www.artreach.org.uk/reaction-festival
A secure, free-to-use bike park will be located at Jubilee Square during the Re/Action Festival.