Parking

It seems kind of strange to be talking about parks and spending time outdoors, looking at the foliage, when there is once again snow on the ground, but never fear, spring will be here soon. And in honor of that, this week's park is Cianfrani, a park that is in the springtime of its life.

Cianfrani Park is a baby in comparison to other Philadelphia Parks. It was laid out about 30 years ago, taking the place of a demolished school building (which perhaps says something about the 20th century—the 19th century saw industry move on out and parks come in. . .the 20th saw education move out?). Cianfrani is not only young, it's small, taking up the corner of 8th street and Fitzwater in Bella Vista. Its the kind of park that makes you want to say "aw" and then walk your dog in it (if you have one) or just sit and gaze at the lovely trees in the springtime.

Like other parks, Ciafrani is gifted with a committed "Friends of" organization, who have worked for about a decade (the park started to be a victim of ill use and graffiti in the 1990's) to keep the park from falling into complete disrepair. The park is now spic and span (and has recently gotten new garbage cans, to boot), with beautiful gardens and a bustling social calendar. In June, the park hosts Friday night concerts. The month of August features a family friendly movie screening (last year it was E.T.). The Fall brings the Fall Festival, which includes a flea market, raffles, and live music. The park is very dog friendly, even in the snow, people were out playing catch with their pets. They do request that if you use the park with your dog, that you contribute $5.00 for maintaining the grounds.

The Friends of Ciafrani park even maintain a blog to keep people updated. Cianfrani may be a whippersnapper compared to the big parks, but it's a cool whippersnapper.

Upcoming Events in the Parks:

Maple Sugar Day in the Wissahickon: Yum! Learn all about how maple syrup is made and then sample some! Wissahickon Park, Forbidden Drive at Northwestern Avenue Saturday March 7, 11AM-3PM.

Get Involved:Dickinson Square Park Clean Up (Saturday, 9AM).

Get your veggies: Farmer's Markets: Fitler Square (Saturdays, 9AM-2PM); Clark Park (Saturdays, 10AM-1PM), Rittenhouse Square (Saturdays 10AM-2PM).

If you know of anything exciting happening in your local park in the near future, please e-mail amy@phillyist.com!

Photo by the author.