Image & Identity

The goal of the Image & Identity Committee is to strengthen the identity of the South Side neighborhood and improve its image elsewhere in the community. The committee helps plan various community events throughout the year, such as Arts on Fire and the Seasonal Carol Sing.  Arts on Fire is an industrial arts festival with local and regional appeal, that celebrates the history of Scranton. Held in June, Arts on Fire is set against the backdrop of the iron furnaces, a historical landmark for the city and for South Side.

The Seasonal Carol Sing celebrates the rich, cultural heritage of Scranton through seasonal song. The Carol Sing is held at the South Side Senior Center in mid-December and features a number of groups and choirs singing in traditional languages and styles.

The Image & Identity committee also organizes the Farmers’ Market and the Community Gardens. The Market and Community Garden began in 2010 and continue to grow each year at Connors Park on Orchard Street.

The South Side Farmers’ Market is held every Saturday throughout the summer and fall. Locally grown fruits and vegetables, such as corn, tomatoes, and apples, are available in season. The farmers’ market also has homemade baked goods, homemade soaps, and a variety of other items for purchase. Special events are held at the farmers’ market all season long, such as music performances, pumpkin painting and the South Side Salsa Competition.

The Children’s Garden is just the beginning of community gardens in South Side. Youth and children from the neighborhood work together to plant vegetables and learn about science, nutrition, and growing your own food. Vegetables are sold at the farmers’ market, with proceeds towards the garden and special activities at the park. Plans are underway for a new community garden at St. John Neumann Church in 2012.