FAMILIES enjoyed making kites and playing bowls at this month's Make Sundays Special extravaganza.
For the third time, Baldwin Street, Corn Street and the old city were closed off to traffic to allow a feast of events to take place.
Bristol's Make Sundays Special initiative – introduced by mayor George Ferguson – aims to enliven city streets for pedestrians and cyclists to enjoy.
Since its launch in June people have enjoyed street theatre, creative-art workshops, sports taster sessions and live music as well as the chance to sit on comfy sofas on the city streets and watch the world go by.
Mr Ferguson said: "The Make Sundays Special idea has really taken off, with thousands of people visiting the city-centre streets to soak up the relaxed atmosphere.
"There is so much going on that you are never sure about what you are going to find – anything from an ambling band to a boxing ring.
"We are seeing more and more local performers, artists and sports clubs coming forward wanting to get involved. More and more people are linking the Gromit Unleashed trail and Harbourside activity with a dip into the city centre's traffic-free streets."
People taking part in yesterday's event had the chance to colour in and decorate a kite or make their own ready for the 2013 Bristol International Kite Festival at Ashton Court on August 31 and September 1.
There was also a programme of music in the Castle Park bandstand, providing a taster of what is to come when BrisFest takes place at Ashton Court on September 21 and 22.
People had the chance to sing along with the Little Red Roosters in Baldwin Street or have a go at bowls with the City and County of Bristol Indoor Bowls Club. There was also a fun fair on St Nicholas Street and a fun dog show.
Avril Baker, of the Bristol International Kite Festival, said: "Baldwin Street and the area around St Nicholas Market provides a huge, open-air, city-centre stage, perfect for encouraging and nurturing local talent.
"It is also a great way to encourage participation – and our kitemaking workshops gave visitors an introduction to the fun of kites and kite flying and a taster of what is to come at the festival at the end of the month."
Around 15,000 people have visited the Make Sundays Special events since they launched. The events have so far involved 20 street performers, 25 musicians and bands and more than 50 food and craft stalls.
The special days have boosted the local economy. A report on the benefits for the city is being prepared.
There will be Make Sundays Special events on September 29 and October 20.