PARK(ing) Day 2012: A Biofriendly Way to Get Your Park On

Once a year, on the third Friday of September, people around the world celebrate PARK(ing) Day. What is PARK(ing) Day? Well, in simple terms, it is a biofriendly way to get your park on.

It is a day when people across the globe lay claim to otherwise auto-filled, metered parking spots throughout the city. Then using their artistic skills, creative minds, and youthful attitudes, they turn those parking spots into temporary parks.

Some people lay down sod or fake grass, potted plants, set up a few chairs, maybe a table or two, then sit back, relax and enjoy.

Image by Greenbelt Alliance / Creative Commons

Others forgo the grass all together, add a few couches and other places to sit, maybe a plant or two for greenery and tah-dah! Like this spot, where a teacher sits going over the benefits of using public spaces in a more creative, and environmentally-friendly way.

Image by Greenbelt Alliance / Creative Commons

Some opt to turn their metered parking spot into a exercise spot, where they (and anyone else who happens to wander by), can fit in a little exercise on their lunch break, on the way to work, or whenever.

Image by Greenbelt Alliance / Creative Commons

Others still may decide to turn their spot into an art display. A place to showcase their art, or maybe invite others to participate.

Image by Emily Mills / Creative Commons

Last year there were 975 PARK(ing) Day parks set up in 162 cities, 35 countries and on 6 continents. This year, they are expecting even more! It doesn’t take much to set up your own spot and it’s kind of exciting, when you think about it. Plus, these are supposed to be fun, creative PARK(ing) Day spots – so the options are close to limitless!

For more information on how you can participate, click here or go to the PARK(ing) Day’s DIY Planning Network page where you can join an existing group or start one of your own. Have a biofriendly PARK(ing) Day!