High Park is a 400 acre oasis north of the western waterfront of Toronto. The park was sold to the city of Toronto by John Howard for the price of one dollar, contingent on the preservation of the lands as designated parkland. Architect John Howard and his contemporaries were largely responsible for the development of western Toronto and the creation of the historic neighbourhoods of Parkdale (Gwynn family), Sunnyside, and Swansea.

The park is a cornerstone of the community activity and identity. Dog walkers, runners, cyclists, bird watchers, skaters, paddlers, and clean-air-breathers take momentary sojourns to the park constantly. The park offers some very unique programming for all ages. One of my personal favorite citywide park programs is Children’s Gardens. The Children’s Garden program at High Park is a model for community involvement and participation.

Learn more about High Park and the unique and varied community programming at www.HighPark.org. Remember to celebrate and use your local urban green space, keep it clean and keep it safe.