It is March and it is cold, very cold, but the days are slowly lengthening, hinting that spring may be just around the corner. With the sun comes heat, greenery, and time spent outside at the park. While East Lynn Park is the hub of our community there are many other parks in the area; each park has a “little special something” that makes it worth visiting. In anticipation of, or perhaps while dreaming of, warmer weather we are taking a moment to highlight some of the other DECA community parks.
Stephenson Park
On the eastern edge of DECA’s boundary, Stephenson Park (61 Stephenson Avenue) has committed park family and their love of the park shows. Over the past five years the park has undergone many improvements includin
g new playground equipment, a fire pit, beautiful murals on the wading pool and shed, and many new trees. Events in the park have a small town vibe and are held regularly throughout the year. Summer is particularly busy with movie nights, concerts, bonfires, ultimate, and yoga in the park. Come out and join the fun!
https://www.facebook.com/groups/339324166192904/
http://www1.toronto.ca/parks/prd/facilities/complex/214/
Gledhill Park
Gledhill Park (125 Gledhill Avenue) is another well maintained park with a strong neighborhood network. The park is entir
ely fenced and has a large variety of toys making it ideal for the littlest children. Even better, there is lots of shade and a dragon-shaped splash pad for the hot summer days. The safe environment allows parents to converse while the little ones roam
https://www.facebook.com/groups/901289799958544/
http://www1.toronto.ca/parks/prd/facilities/complex/2030/
Oakcrest Parkette
Oakcrest Parkette (30 Oakcrest Avenue) is a sm
all hidden gem near Woodbine and Danforth. Last fall this little parkette got a much needed facelift that included new playground equipment, a small rock climbing wall, and new trees.
The parkette is dog friendly; it is an unleashed area during certain times of the day. Another great feature is the wading pool; it is in the sun, meaning the water is warm, and it is quieter than other parks making it a great spot for a quick dip in the summer months.
http://www1.toronto.ca/parks/prd/facilities/complex/236/
Merrill Bridge Road Park
Merrill Bridge Road Park (1 East Lynn Avenue) is an off-leash dog park bordering the ravine. It is great place if you have a dog, or 
a small child who likes to watch dogs,
but the best part is a little path at the west
end of the park that leads through a ravine that follows the tracks. There is a stairway down into the ravine and a short path that is frequently muddy, but the trees surround you, you can hear the water from the small creek, and you forget you are in the city for a moment or two.