PENSACOLA — Some streets will be closed to cars and opened to the public to promote health and community during Ciclovia, set 9 a.m. until 2 p.m. March 25 in downtown Pensacola.

A 5-mile scenic route, east and west from the Vince J. Whibbs Sr. Community Maritime Park to Gulf Power on Main Street and Bayfront Parkway and north and south on Palafox Street from Plaza de Luna to Garden Street, will be open for the community to walk, bike, skate, run, dance or just play in a safe, relaxed atmosphere.

Activities include a bike skills clinic, Zumba, music and dancing. Free kids’ helmets, rental bikes, Ciclovia specials at select businesses and restaurants as well as a Family Zone are part of the festivities. Zaragoza Street, between Palafox and Alcaniz streets through Historic Pensacola, will also be open to allow participants to engage with costumed interpreters.

Ciclovia, also called Open Streets, started in South America and has since been held worldwide for more than 30 years in more than 400 cities.

“Pensacola is ripe for Ciclovia. We have a great community, a rich history and a vibrant culture. Ciclovia is a unique opportunity for citizens and visitors to connect these assets, enjoy active living and highlight our community on the worldwide stage,” said Sally Rosendahl, organizer of the Pensacola event.

“Mayor Ashton Hayward’s early endorsement and the support of the city of Pensacola, along with the backing from community leaders and organizations, has been vital to this effort,” Rosendahl said.

Partners include LiveWell Partnership for a Healthy Community, Visit Pensacola, West Florida Regional Planning Council, University of West Florida Historic Trust, University of West Florida, Florida Department of Transportation, Dasani Water from Pensacola Coca-Cola United, Boys & Girls Clubs of the Emerald Coast, Pensacola’s Downtown Improvement Board, Escambia County School District, Studer Properties, Beck Partners, Jerry Pate Design, Portofino Island Resort and the Florida Department of Health in Escambia County.

Free basic bicycle safety checks are available in advance of the event through participating local bicycle shops.

See www.pensacolaopenstreets.com or email pensacolaopenstreets@gmail.com for more information on Ciclovia.

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This article originally appeared on Santa Rosa Press Gazette: Ciclovia scheduled in Pensacola