Cali Reclaims its Sundays: 42 Years of Ciclovida Spark Joy and Unity in a City on the Rise
Santiago de Cali, Colombia – October 19, 2025 – A wave of energy and celebration swept through Cali today as thousands of residents marked the 42nd anniversary of Ciclovida, the city’s iconic Sunday program dedicated to health, recreation, and community spirit. The event, led by Mayor Alejandro Eder and the Secretariat of Sports and Recreation, served as a powerful symbol of Cali’s ongoing recovery and a testament to the enduring power of collective joy. This is a breaking news story with significant SEO implications for local and regional searches.
A Tradition Renewed: Ciclovida’s Enduring Legacy
For over four decades, Ciclovida has been a cornerstone of life in Cali, transforming public spaces into vibrant hubs of activity every Sunday. This year’s commemoration, centered around the Panamericana Station, was particularly poignant, representing a renewed sense of hope and unity for a city eager to move forward. The program’s origins, dating back to 1983, were rooted in a desire to provide accessible recreational opportunities for all citizens, a mission that continues to resonate today. It’s a beautiful example of how consistent, community-focused initiatives can build lasting social capital.
Mayor Eder Champions a “Recovered Cali”
Mayor Alejandro Eder’s presence at the event was met with enthusiastic applause. Addressing the crowd, he passionately urged residents to fully embrace the Ciclovida experience, declaring, “Everyone to enjoy the Ciclovida, don’t let yourself be counted. Long live a recovered Cali! We recover Cali together, we all recover it. Let’s not allow them to fill us with hate. Long live our city, long live Cali!” His words underscored the administration’s commitment to fostering a positive and inclusive environment for all Cali residents. This focus on community healing is a key element of the city’s broader revitalization efforts.
Music, Culture, and Community: A Day of Festivities
The celebration wasn’t just about sports; it was a full-fledged cultural extravaganza. DJ Holmes ignited the atmosphere with electrifying salsa dura, followed by a captivating performance from local artist Andy Caicedo, who had the crowd singing along to hits like “La vamo’ a tumbá.” Caicedo took a moment to honor Carlos Arana, the visionary creator of Ciclovida, acknowledging the program’s profound impact on the city. Beyond the music, local entrepreneurs showcased their talents, offering unique products and experiences, further enriching the festive atmosphere. The event also featured a commemorative photo booth and health awareness initiatives from the Por Ti, Por Mí, Por Todos Foundation, focusing on breast self-examination.
Beyond the Fun: The Health and Social Benefits of Ciclovida
Secretary of Sports, Alexander Camacho, emphasized the program’s alignment with Mayor Eder’s vision of using sports as a catalyst for well-being. “We closed a day full of joy,” Camacho stated. “This reflects the purpose of Mayor Alejandro Eder: that sport is a meeting point for the well-being of all Cali residents. We will continue to bring families together every Sunday to enjoy the best Ciclovida of all time.” Attendees echoed this sentiment, highlighting the program’s role in promoting family bonding, health, and a sense of belonging. Doctor Juan Miguel Noreña, attending with his children, noted that Ciclovida has been “encouraging family unity and love for sports in Cali” for 42 years. The program’s success demonstrates the powerful connection between physical activity, social interaction, and overall quality of life.
A City United: Voices from the Crowd
Residents like Carlos Martínez and Gina Salazar praised Ciclovida for its ability to unite families and strengthen community bonds. Karen Caldas Ordóñez expressed her joy at participating in an event that “revives the sport, makes us feel at home and remember the good times.” Jaime Flórez Girón emphasized the importance of these spaces for integrating children and fostering coexistence, while Kimberly Mutis celebrated the program’s success in promoting youth sports and filling the city with joy.
The 42nd anniversary of Ciclovida wasn’t just a celebration of the past; it was a vibrant affirmation of Cali’s present and a hopeful glimpse into its future. As the city continues to rebuild and revitalize, programs like Ciclovida will undoubtedly play a crucial role in fostering a stronger, healthier, and more united community. Stay tuned to archyde.com for continued coverage of Cali’s inspiring journey and other breaking news stories impacting communities around the globe. We’re committed to delivering timely and relevant information, optimized for Google News and SEO, to keep you informed.
