From the Saturday farmers market to the art shows and the movie nights, the Judy Black Park and Gardens has been transformed into a vibrant gathering place.

Nearly a year has passed since the formal dedication of the Judy Black Memorial Park and Gardens in the center of Washington Depot – at the site of an abandoned Texaco station. Much has happened since the garden was in full bloom this spring. The Park’s calendar of activities and events has quickly filled up.

The farmers market brought new offerings such as stylish accessories and skin care products. A steady stream of people stroll through the park, spending as much time greeting their friends and neighbors as purchasing the bounty shared by a dozen local vendors.

Market master Justin Moore has assured a rich variety of offerings at the market – from Kimberly Farm’s fresh corn to Waldingfield Farm’s tomatoes and sauces, Averill Farm’s apple cider donuts, Oliva on Main’s hummus, Ruth Chase’s flowers, Ox Hollow Farm’s beef, pork and chicken, to name a few of the regulars. Children and adults alike line up to the music of DJ Nathan Zapata to buy a fruit popsicle from Bee’s Knees, a new addition to the market.

Whether sitting on Mark Mennin’s “Currents” sculpture, or at the picnic table under the gazebo, or on a bench, folks are enjoying a cup of coffee and a donut while catching up with friends.

New this year are the Outdoor Movie Nights – a great way to relax with friends and family, spread out a picnic on the grass, sip a glass of wine or munch on popcorn, and enjoy a classic film. Thanks to the generous support of local sponsors like National Iron Bank, Klemm Real Estate, and Bouyea & Associates, the Judy Black Park erects a giant screen to entertain visitors of all ages with a wide selection of films. Coming soon are “As Good As It Gets” (Saturday,
September 2), “Raiders of the Lost Ark” (Sunday, September 2) and “The Philadelphia Story” (Friday, September 15). The movies roll at 8:15 pm, but get there early to enjoy dusk in the Depot and secure a place for your lawn chair or blanket.

For relaxation for the mind and body, and the learning of a lifelong skill, the Sunman Center for Excellence offers free yoga and meditation classes for the community every Tuesday at 11 am through October. Just bring a mat or rent one for $2. All levels are welcome.

Inside the fully renovated garage, art exhibitions are on display. Katie Morley, director of program and marketing, invites you to discover the revolving art shows that adorn the walls of the building.

“We have several wonderful exhibitions planned for the rest of 2017, ending with two shows from returning curator James Salomon Contemporary in November and December, and already have a full 2018 calendar,” Morley says. “On September 21, we will open an exhibition of the paintings of Bryan LeBoeuf.”

“If music is your pleasure, “ Morley continues, “don’t miss the upcoming concert at the Judy Black Park: on September 2 at 4  pm a concert by Chorus Angelicus artistic director Gabriel Lofvall and Chorus alumna Michaela Bottari.”

The park is run by an eleven member volunteer team that keeps busy planning activities and events as well as maintaining the property.

President Denise Trevenen announces, “Enjoy the beautiful gardens and lawn and picnic table anytime. Seek artistic inspiration inside the building. Come to the Judy Black Memorial Park and Gardens in the heart of the Depot — to relax, learn, play and share all that our community has to offer.”