Here and Now!

Happy 2023 from CCRA and BFF

Winter Events and Programs

BFF (Building Friends in Fitler Square) is a joint collaborative of several civic groups in the neighborhood, including Center City Residents’ Association. Our purpose is to help build friendships and greater cohesion in our little slice of the city. We are excited to share several events and classes happening this winter, several of which came as a result of a fall survey, circulated to neighbors and

CCRA members in CCRA This Week. Interested in helping plan more programs and events for the community? Drop a note to bffphilly@gmail.com.

Recycle Your Tree on Saturday, January 7

Want to dispose of your Christmas tree responsibly? Bring your tree down to the Schuylkill River Park multi-purpose court on January 7th between 8:30 and 11:30 a.m. The multi-purpose court is located in between the playground and basketball courts.

Suggested donation: $20.

Community Potluck Dinner on Sunday, January 15

Hosted by Trinity Center for Urban Life Sunday, January 15th from 5:30 - 7:30pm. 

So... how does this work? It's pretty simple. Bring your own dish and drinks to share with others. Beer, wine and other spirits welcome! Dinner plates, cups and silverware will be provided.

Botanical Art Drawing Class on Thursdays

Starting on January 19th

Thursdays | 1:00pm

Come join us and fall in love with botanical art. This class is entry

level. No required skill. Bring your own materials. It will be fun! $100 for 8 classes. Classes start January 19th. Download the class flyer from our website or register HERE.

Caregiver & Me Art Class on Wednesdays

Starting on January 11th 

Wednesdays | 1:30 - 2:15pm

Come join local artist, Violet Alexandre for this Caregiver and Me art class focused on creating mandalas. This class is for kids ages 2-5. Each child must be accompanied by an adult. $60 for 4 weeks. Download the flyer from our website or register HERE.

Tai Chi Classes for All Levels on Tuesdays

Starting on January 24th

Tuesdays | Times Vary

Achieve a healthier mind, body, and spirit by practicing this Chinese martial art. This class must be purchased as a season class pass (10 classes). $75 per pass.

Registration links for classes below: 

Advanced Class (6 pm) (Beginners class or experience required)

Intermediate Class (6:45 pm)

Beginners Class (7:30 pm)

Comic Book Class for Kids on Thursdays

Starting on January 26th

Thursdays | 6:00 - 8:00 pm

This 8-week class provides kids (ages 8-10) with an opportunity to conceptualize and create their own comic book from start to finish! $175 for the series. Supplies included. Download the flyer from our website or register HERE.

"New Year, New You" Workshop on Mondays

Starting on January 9th

Mondays | 7:30 - 8:30 pm 

This 4-class workshop series is for people who want to take action on an idea they have been thinking about for a while. $50 for 4 classes. All proceeds go towards rec center programs. Download the flyer on our website or register HERE.

Community Knitting Circle on Tuesdays

Tuesdays, ongoing | 1:30 - 2:30 pm 

Markward Recreation Center

In partnership with Friends of Schuylkill River Park, Markward Recreation Center and the Philadelphia Guild of Handweavers, we encourage you to build friendships and perfect your craft at our knitting circle. Bring your own supplies and come meet your knitting neighbors every week at the Markward Rec Center.