Large stretches of city streets will close to motor vehicles this summer to allow people to walk, bike, skate, shop and hang out in a car-free environment.

Minneapolis announced Friday that it will host four Open Streets events starting in June.

The events "are designed to help promote environmentally friendly transportation choices, such as walking, bicycling and mass transit," officials with the city and the Minneapolis Bike Coalition said in a statement.

The daylong events will be June 23 on Lyndale Avenue S., July 28 on Central Avenue NE., Aug. 11 on Minnehaha Avenue S. and Sept. 21 on Lowry Avenue N. as part of Harvest Fest. They will include displays and activities that highlight healthful living and fitness.

Open Streets Minneapolis is an initiative of the Minneapolis Bicycle Coalition, and the events are co-sponsored by the city.

For more information, visit www.openstreetsmpls.com.

Maya Rao

@mrao_strib