City of San Jose celebrates a decade of Viva CalleSJ with 10 miles of car-free streets

In a vibrant celebration of community, culture and car-free streets, San Jose marked the 10th anniversary of its popular Viva CalleSJ event on Sunday by transforming 10 miles of city roads into a sprawling corridor for cyclists, walkers and families.

The event, organized by the City of San Jose’s Parks, Recreation and Neighborhood Services Department, closed off major streets to vehicular traffic, creating a temporary bike pathway that weaved through various neighborhoods and commercial corridors.

Inspired by CicLAvía in Los Angeles, Viva Calle SJ is part of a growing movement across American cities to reimagine public space. In California, many major cities, like San Jose, Los Angeles, San Francisco and Palo Alto, have pushed back against the car-centric culture and encouraged investment in more ecologically friendly alternatives. 

San Jose especially sees Viva CalleSJ as a reflection of the city’s identity: multicultural, eco-friendly and deeply rooted in local pride. This year’s celebration attracted an estimated over 150,000 attendees from all walks of life. 

Along the route, “activity hubs” served as focal points for entertainment and exploration. Local vendors, performers, artists and small businesses set up shop, transforming sidewalks and intersections into impromptu street fairs. 

Each hub was located strategically at a place of cultural relevance in its assigned neighborhood. The route was meant to encourage residents to explore various parts of the city that they might not already be familiar with. Popular hub locations included the Municipal Rose Garden, Downtown Willow Glen and Watson Park. 

“Today we’re not just celebrating a program,” said Brian Clampitt, Parks manager, during speaking remarks, “we’re celebrating the community – a decade of healthy, joyful living.” 

Residents like Claudia Hernandez said the event offers a rare opportunity to engage with the city.  “I love being outdoors and I like biking,” she said. Hernandez has lived in San Jose for over 25 years and has previously participated in Viva CalleSJ with friends and family. 

After a decade of growth, city officials say they hope to expand the event in future years, continuing to highlight community health and the sustainability of San Jose’s local economy. Dates for the 2025 Viva CalleSJ lineup for 2026 were announced at the event, taking place on April 19, June 14 and September 13