Party in the Park Counters Heat with Cool Activities

Balloon animals, cotton candy and live music combined to make the latest Party in the Park a hit for Scarsdale residents who attended last Friday in Chase Park.

This was the third of four Parties in the Park that the Scarsdale Parks, Recreation and Conservation Department scheduled to hold this year as a fun event to bring the community together.

Residents sprawled on blankets and lawn chairsaround the park while young children chased each other on the grass and danced under the clear blue sky. A balloon artist dressed in a bright blue, yellow and red costume handed out balloon swords and dogs and two other vividly-clothed girls offered face painting and cotton candy. An ice cream truck stationed at the park's entrance, under the humid 88 degree sun, was a popular attraction.

In the center plaza of Chase Park, families listened to the Jay Prince Band perform live. Band leader Jay Prince and his touring musicians have performed at Scarsdale's Party in the Park before, and were well received. They played old and new hits, from Marvin Gaye's "Let's Get it On," to Bruno Mars's "Uptown Funk."

Scarsdale resident Lonnie Klein, who has seen Jay Prince perform many times before, says, "He's timeless. Our kids love it. The music brings life and happiness... It shows his longevity and his relevance."

Paul Bizzaro, who was enjoying the festivities, said his favorite part about the party was "watching how much my kids enjoy the music and the free ice cream." The band packed up to leave after 8:00, but will be back in Chase Park on August 5 for the next Party in the Park. The band's saxophone player, Chris Eminizer, said "I think it's great. Lot of families, even hot dates," when asked about the party.

"I like that the families are coming out with the kids, interacting with them," said first-time visitor Giselle Fuentes. This Party in the Park seemed to be a success for new and returning revelers.
Photos and text by Adam Regenstreif