Seattle Summer Parkways returns this summer in August and September, and features three separate days of special events in three iconic neighborhoods: Rainier Valley, West Seattle and Ballard.

Hosted by the Seattle Department of Transportation, Seattle Summer Parkways will transform streets into open-street “parkways” where people can bike, play, walk, run and experience neighborhoods in unique and inviting ways. Based on the success of last year’s inaugural event, thousands of neighbors, families and kids are expected to participate in this summer’s community-based activities, live music and recreation.

“Seattle Summer Parkways activates our streets and energizes neighborhoods,” said Mayor Ed Murray. “Building on last year’s success, we are looking forward to bringing this celebration to more communities.”

The 2016 Summer Parkways lineup includes:

• Saturday, August 13:
Rainier Valley, 12:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Kick-off festivities will celebrate with existing events including the Big Day of Play, Rainier Valley Heritage Festival, Hillman City Car Show, South Seattle Community Picnic and dozens of community partners, to bring safe streets and sunny fun to the south end. This route will highlight some of the Valley’s beautiful and vibrant areas including Rainier Valley Playfields, Columbia City, Columbia Park, Hillman City, Brighton Playfields and Othello Park.

• Saturday, August 27:
Ballard, 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
The second event in the series will bring the fun back to Ballard! In partnership with the Sustainable Ballard Festival, Seattle Parks and Recreation and dozens of community partners, a variety of activities will take place along the route of Ballard Commons Park, Ballard Corners Park, Salmon Bay Park, Loyal Heights Community Center, Sunset Hill Park, Bergen Place Park, and the myriad shops and businesses along Ballard Avenue NW.

• Sunday, September 25:
West Seattle, 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
The final event will celebrate the conclusion of summer with a community party on Alki Beach! In partnership with Orca Running, Seattle Parks and Recreation, the Beach Creeps Bicycle Club and dozens of community partners, the route will highlight activities throughout Alki Beach Park, the Alki Trail, Don Armeni Park, Alki Community Center, and the myriad shops and businesses along Alki Avenue SW.

Participation is free, and those who want to host an activity in their neighborhood can fill out an online application. Volunteer positions are also available, ranging from intersection management and community ambassadors, to route patrols and mobile bike mechanics.

For sign-ups, route maps and more information, please visit: www.seattle.gov/summerparkways and follow Seattle Parkways on Facebook and Twitter @SeattleParkways #SeattleSummerParkways.