On Sunday morning, Makati once again opened its streets to pedestrians as it brought back its well-loved Car-Free Sunday along Ayala Avenue. Since its introduction in 2023, the initiative has transformed one of Metro Manila’s busiest financial hubs into a vibrant, pedestrian-friendly zone where families, friends, and fitness enthusiasts can gather for activities that promote health, wellness, and community spirit.
From 6:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. every Sunday, the usually traffic-heavy stretch of Ayala Avenue closes its lanes to vehicles, giving way instead to runners, cyclists, skaters, and casual strollers who come to experience the rare freedom of wide, carless roads in the city. For many, this weekly event has become both a lifestyle and a tradition, offering residents and visitors alike a space to reset, recharge, and reconnect.
A Sunday tradition rooted in community
Sundays are often regarded as “family day” in the Philippines — a time when people take a pause from work, school, and household responsibilities to spend time with their loved ones. By designating Sundays as car-free mornings, Makati aligns with this cultural rhythm, encouraging the public to use the time for recreation and bonding in a safe, open-air environment.
“Well, nakakatuwa eh, kasi nakaka-relate kaming pamilya sa ibang mga pumupunta rin dito. It’s the best way to unwind with my family na rin,” said Joel, who was with his family on Car-free Sunday.
The Car-Free Sunday program has quickly grown beyond just fitness. It has become a venue for community groups, wellness advocates, and event organizers to showcase activities that promote both individual and collective well-being. According to Makati officials, the initiative highlights three key goals: promoting sustainable transport, supporting public health, and fostering stronger community engagement.
Activities that draw the crowd
One of the most popular fixtures during Car-Free Sundays is the fun run organized by various fitness groups. Among them is the 5AM Gang Run Club, a growing community of running enthusiasts dedicated to promoting the positive impact of running across the Philippines.
With chapters spread across Metro Manila, the club organizes regular runs and invites anyone — seasoned runners or beginners — to join through their group chats and social media pages. Their presence in Makati’s Car-Free Sunday has further amplified their advocacy of fitness, discipline, and mental well-being.
But the fun doesn’t stop with running.
Each week brings a mix of activities designed to appeal to a broad audience. Fitness buffs often take part in Zumba sessions, yoga classes, and outdoor tennis matches set up along the avenue.
Families with young children enjoy the relaxed environment where kids can safely bike, skate, or play.
Kaye, one of the bikers, said, “It feels so refreshing to see so many people genuinely interested in activities like this. I think it’s really healthy and truly motivating, and I hope more people come to appreciate the importance of Car-Free Sundays here in Makati”
“Lagi akong nag-stroll every morning dito with my pet, but what I really look forward to are the Sunday activities. There are always lots of people, plus booths offering different kinds of freebies, which makes the experience even more enjoyable,” added Jasmin, a poodle owner.
Health, community, and sustainability in action
Book fairs and cultural events also make appearances, turning sections of Ayala Avenue into pop-up spaces for literature lovers and local artists. Pet-friendly gatherings are common, too, giving fur parents the perfect opportunity to bring their pets out for exercise and socialization.
On top of these, organizers frequently highlight causes such as sustainability, wellness, and environmental awareness, making the weekly event more than just a recreational activity — it becomes a platform for advocacy.
The significance of Car-Free Sunday extends beyond the four-hour street closure. It is a statement about how urban spaces can be reimagined to serve people, not just vehicles. By temporarily removing cars from the equation, Makati creates an environment where sustainable transport and active lifestyles take center stage.
This shift not only benefits the body through exercise but also nurtures mental health, giving residents a chance to breathe, move, and de-stress in a bustling metropolis.
Moreover, the initiative demonstrates how community-driven events can reshape public perception of urban living.
Ayala Avenue, known primarily as the city’s central business district, transforms into a place of leisure, wellness, and creativity. It proves that even the busiest streets can host meaningful connections when designed for people first.
What’s next for Ayala Avenue’s car-free Sunday
For those eager to take part, details about Car-Free Sunday activities and upcoming schedules are regularly posted on the Make It Makati official page. From fitness sessions to cultural showcases, the page provides updates on not just weekly happenings but also other events across the city.
As the program enters its third year, Makati continues to refine and expand the initiative to accommodate more groups and participants. City officials and organizers hope the movement will inspire other urban centers in the Philippines to adopt similar programs, fostering healthier lifestyles and stronger communities nationwide.
A personal invitation
Whether you’re a fitness enthusiast, a family looking for bonding time, or someone curious about exploring Makati in a different light, Car-Free Sunday offers something for everyone. Beyond the activities, it’s the sense of community and shared experience that makes the event truly special.
So, would you recommend Car-Free Sunday in Makati to your friends — and perhaps join in yourself next week?
