BOULDER - People, activities and food, not cars, will be the focus of the third annual Boulder Ciclovia event happening from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Sunday, Sept. 16.

A three-mile loop free of cars will link the east end of Pearl Street in downtown Boulder with the North Boulder Recreation Center. The event will include live music, dance, arts fitness and recreation. The city of Boulder and the Boulder Green Streets group are presenting the event.

Activities will be free. Attendees also will have a chance to learn about local sustainability efforts, enjoy local and natural foods and explore outdoor adventure gear, among other activities, according to a press release.

"This event is a fantastic opportunity to experience our streets in a new way - free from cars and full of community," Karta Elise Hassler, education and outreach coordinator for the city's Local Environmental Action Division, said in the press release.

In addition, about 50 natural and organic companies will show off their food products and offer samples at an Organic Alley Pavilion held at the event. Participants are to include Rudi's Organic Bakery Inc., in Boulder, WhiteWave Foods Co. (NYSE: WWAV) in Broomfield, Madhava Honey in Lyons, NextFoods Inc. in Boulder, Boulder Ice Cream in Boulder, Cheribundi Inc. in Boulder, Nova Monda Cacao & Chocolate in Louisville, Olomomo Nut Co. LLC in Boulder. Many other local and national companies will be represented.

Two Boulder companies -organic-gift and brand-promotion firm Best Organics Inc. and marketer Compass Natural - are organizing the pavilion.

Two major activity centers at the event include the blocks between 15th and 20th streets on Pearl Street, and the North Boulder Recreation Center at 3170 Broadway.

"Ride, roll or stroll down and leave your car behind," Hassler said.