Uwishunu is here to help you shop locally this holiday season; stock up on locally crafted jewelry, art, home goods, clothes, food and drink and much more. (Credit: iStockPhoto

The tree lights are atwinkle, the store windows are bursting with red, green, silver and gold, the ribbon and wrapping paper and cards are calling your name from inside your cabinet.

It’s officially gift-giving holiday heyday, and there’s no time like the present to stock up on Philadelphia-made crafts, clothes, food and more for the lucky ones on your list.

Enter: uwishunu’s holiday gift guide, complete with the events you can rely on for gift-shopping, the best places to find local gifts and our curated selections for specific finds from each. Note that our roundup is solely comprised of Philadelphia-made gifts, so if we missed your go-to gift shop it may be because they don’t stock locally.

Everything that you need to give locally this season, below:

Gift-Shopping Events

• Center City District Shopping Saturdays: Support local, independently owned small businesses throughout Center City over the next month. Here are the featured dates and locations. November 26: Midtown Village. December 3: The Shops at Liberty Place. December 10: The Gallery at Market East.December 17: Rittenhouse Row.

• NOLIBS Holiday Shopping Spree: December 3-4, from 2nd to 3rd and from The Piazza to Spring Garden. At this annual boutique crawl, 10 independent boutiques will be offering refreshments, free gift wrap and an opportunity to get up to 25% off your purchases. Shoppers are given a Shopping Spree Card and collect a sticker for each store at which they make a purchase. You get 10% off the first store, 15% off at the second, 20% off at the third and 25% off at all shops after collecting all three stickers.

• Stag & Doe Nights in Chestnut Hill: Wednesdays, December 5, 14, 21, 28, 6-9 p.m., throughout Chestnut Hill. All the shops open their doors and welcome you with wonderful gift ideas, refreshments and personalized, friendly service.

• H.O.P.E. for the Holidays Craft Bazaar: December 8-10, St. James Hall, Elkins Park. H.O.P.E. stands for Helping Other People Endure. The event includes a theater performance followed by a bazaar stocked with local crafters and artisans’ work.

• Greensgrow Holiday Bazaar: December 10, 11, 17, 18, 11 a.m.-4 p.m., 2501 E. Cumberland Street. Make a dent in your Christmas shopping at Greensgrow Farms’ Holiday Bazaar featuring local, handmade gift ideas from some of the neighborhood’s most talented crafters and artists, Christmas trees and holiday greenery.

• Crafty Balboa Holiday Edition: Saturday, December 17, Broad Street Ministry. Rooted in South Philly, this annual local craft extravaganza is a treasure trove of gifts.

• Punk Rock Flea Market Holiday Edition: Sunday, December 11, Punk Rock Flea Market Dome. Get pumped for 300+ tables of vendors selling old records, clothes, art, music, bicycles, stereo equipment, instruments, automobiles, tools, posters, furniture, computers, skateboards and more.

• Rittenhouse Farmers Market: Saturdays, 10 a.m.-2 p.m., Walnut Street between 18th and 19th Streets. In addition to fresh flowers, produce, meat, hot apple cider and other edibles, you can pick up locally made crafts likes Timothy Bahash of 4mula’s living ornaments and wreaths.

• Clark Park Farmers Market: Saturdays, 10 a.m.-2 p.m., 43rd Street at Baltimore Avenue. Participating vendors (all local of course) include Eden Garden Farm, Fahnestock Fruit Farm, Forest View Bakery, Slow Rise Bakery and plenty more. Pick up baked goods, handmade chocolates or locally made cider as great holiday gifts.

Where to Shop

Clothes & Accessories

• R.E.Load Bags: Create your own custom-designed messenger bag, choosing from seven styles of single-strap bags and three styles of double-straps, plus a trillion color combos. All construction work is done on site at the Northern Liberties shop. They also sell wallets, bike accessories and more. OUR PICK: The “Build Your Own” bag.

• Valerie Safran and Marcie Turney’s We ♥ Philly line: The 13th street dynamic duo has funneled their love for Philadelphia into a Philly-centric, everything-is-irresistible line of goods. The totes, cards, coasters, T-shirts, candles, paperweights and onesies are designed locally. Order online, at Open House or Verde, both in Midtown Village. OUR PICK: Pretzel necklace in silver or gold.

• SA VA: Local eco-friendly clothing designer and entrepreneur Sarah Van Aken is a true champion on the local Philly designer scene. Anything from her shop, above which her design studio is located, makes a special present. OUR PICK: Any of the wide range of eco-friendly and fair trade dresses, what SA VA is known for.

• Smak Parlour: This dollhouse-like establishment nestled in Old City is an edgy boutique where city-wise shoppers dabble in the hip and flirty. Founders Abby and Kate, who design all of the store’s garments and accessories, have created a perfect marriage of sugar and spice. OUR PICK: A chic warm sweater for the coming winter.

• Egan Day: Though not all the stock is made here in Philadelphia, much of it is. You’ll find gorgeous jewelry, from earrings to pendants to rings. OUR PICK: Jonathan Wahl’s cufflinks. Philly-born and -raised Wahl’s clients include Bruce Webber, Anne Hathaway and Caroline Kennedy.

Continue reading below for our top picks for home goods, food and drink selections and more.

• Bohema Artisan and Vintage Boutique: Located in Roxborough, Bohema carries vintage clothing plus an assortment of handcrafted goods from Philly artists. OUR PICK: Any of the Birdqueen Designs jewelry.

• Tselaine: Featuring reasonably priced, handmade jewelry by local designer Elaine Tse, this cute Rittenhouse boutique is a great place to find a gift for someone…or yourself. OUR PICK: Philly LOVE necklace.

• Adorn Boutique: This Frankford Avenue shop from local jewelry designer Sarah Lewis features handcrafted jewelry, accessories and apparel by Lewis, as well as collections from other artists and designers. OUR PICK: Gemstone earrings hand-made by Lewis.

• Lucifer: Stop into Lucifer for contemporary clothes, plus trendy jewelry from Philly brand Bullet Babe. OUR PICK: Sparrow feet earrings from Bullet Babe.

• Metro Clothing: This East Passyunk shop stocks local brand 611Lifestyle,from former DJ Nigel Richards. OUR PICK: Tees featuring Philly sports-themed renditions of the 611 logo.

• Duke & Winston: This independent Philadelphia-based apparel company launched in 2009 as a casual-wear brand for men. It’s gained a fervent following for its clean and simple apparel. OUR PICK: The classic Logo Tee, so you can wear your Duke & Winston pride proudly.

• Reward Project: Old City’s Reward stocks a selection of independent designers for both men and women, including the Philly-based clothing brand Bandit. OUR PICK: Hand-made dip-dyed crochet dress from Bandit.

• Scarlet Fiorella: One of the hot shops along 13th Street, Scarlet Fiorella stocks unique and stylish apparel and accessories for women and kids. Locally made goods include jewelry from local designers Sultana Aschim and Marlyn Schiff, and hand-painted silk scarves by Anne Foresman. OUR PICK: Any of Anne’s scarves, perfect for the colder weather.

The only downside to shopping for gifts at Midtown Village's Duross & Langel is that you will always leave with a little something extra for yourself. (Photo by T. Scheid for GPTMC)

Home Goods

• Duross & Langel: Step inside and swoon from the delicious combination of fragrances wafting all around the store. From soaps to balms and salves to bath products, everything is made right upstairs in the kitchen. And is amazing in every possible way. OUR PICK: One of the flavor gift sets, so you don’t have to choose just one thing.

• Philip H. Bradley Co. Antiques: Early Philadelphia side chairs, Lancaster County hanging cupboards and Pennsylvania German house blessing boards are among the 200-plus year-old finds here. OUR PICK: Berks County, PA walnut cupboard — if it’s still there when you get there!

• Origin & Ash: T.R. Risk has been creating one-of-a-kind furniture since the early 1990′s in his West Chester studio. Hand made from reclaimed lumber, vintage hardware and antique glass, each piece is an original work of art. You’ll also find paintings, upholstery and more. OUR PICK: Jade dragonfly serving bowl.

• SWAG Boutique: This homegrown shop features whimsical, handmade gifts made by local artisans. OUR PICK: Custom fabric name banners from local brand Unique Annick.

• Beekman’s COPA Soaps: Beekman’s COPA Soaps are cold processed, all natural soaps hand made in their small shop in Fishtown. Catch them at craft bazaars and design shows in and around the city (and New York). OUR PICK: Travel bar pack.

• The Little Apple: This adorable Manayunk boutique stocks local as much as possible. They sell everything from kitchen stuff to baby items to candles to scarves to home decorations. OUR PICK: Customizable hometown sign.

Food & Drink

• Di Bruno Bros. 2011 Holiday Gift Guide: From German chocolate brownies to an antipasto sampler, you can’t go wrong with Di Bruno helping you pick and package. OUR PICK: Cheese Connoisseur Club Membership, which includes monthly delivery of four cheeses, hand selected by Di Bruno’s knowledgeable staff, plus a pairing card describing each cheese and the best way to enjoy it with wine and beer.

• Garces Restaurant Group: Pick up a signed copy of Chef Jose Garces’ Latin Evolution cookbook, Garces Trading Company’s seasonal macaroons, GTC Éclat Chocolate Bars, Garces Trading Company coffee beans, a gift card or one of three Gift Sets to take the pain out of picking. OUR PICK: GTC’s seasonal macaroons available by the dozen: Caramel, Chocolate, Peanut Butter & Jelly, Huckleberry, Apple and Pumpkin Spice, shipped fresh to you.

• Iron Hill Holiday Bottled Reserves Gift Packs: It’s a perfect way to share craft beer with friends and loved ones. The gift packs will showcase Iron Hill’s Bottled Reserves series of award-winning and seasonal beers, brewed in small batches and available only in large-format, cork finished 750 mL bottles. OUR PICK: Winter Wheat Wine Ale package, featuring a bottle of winter wheat wine and two etched Iron Hill wine glasses.

• Home Sweet Homebrew: George Hummel and Nancy Rigberg, owners of Home Sweet Homebrew, Philadelphia’s original homebrewing supplier that gave many top craft brewers their start, are celebrating 25 years of serving the region. The duo, dubbed the godparents of homebrewers by Governor Ed Rendell when he bestowed them the Governor’s Inspiration Award in 2008 for their contributions to the craft brew industry, have made the community what is today. OUR PICK: “The Complete Homebrew Beer Book” packaged with a brewing kit and start-up batch of ingredients.

• Metropolitan Bakery: Founded in 1993, Metropolitan is the brainchild of pastry chef James Barrett and Wendy Smith Born who met while working at local-food landmark White Dog Café. Today, the bakery boasts five locations around the city, selling delicious breads, award-winning granola, handmade popcorn with a kick and local dairy and eggs. OUR PICK: Popcorn mix-and-match.

• Capogiro Gelato Artisans: No big deal… Capogiro was just named #1 ice cream spot in the world by National Geographic. Gift-wise, it’s hard to choose from all the local products stocked in the store, including Gilda’s Biscotti and B.T. Brownies. But who wouldn’t want a regular shipment of locally made, farm-to-freezer gelatos and sorbets in stunning flavors like Sweet Potato with Pecan Praline, Chestnut, Blueberry Thyme? OUR PICK: A year’s worth of gelato.

• Green Aisle Grocery: Brothers and food veterans Adam and Andrew Erace opened this quaint grocery on East Passyunk, stocked with local products aplenty. OUR PICK: Market Day Caneles.

• Pumpkin Market: Owners Hillary and Ian have made a commitment to showcasing the wonderful products of our region, including seasonal produce, meats, dairy, sweets, local coffee roasting, sandwiches, chili, all day breakfast and prepared food. Everything is made fresh daily. OUR PICK: Pumpkin Thunder Pies.

• Plenty: At Plenty, locally grown seasonal produce is paired with meats that are cured and smoked in house. You’ll also find both housemade and locally produced cheeses, jarred and pickled goods, freshly baked desserts and more. OUR PICK: Salted caramels made with pumpkin flower honey from Bucks County.

• Milk and Honey Market: Celebrating the Philadelphia region’s foodways and indigenous ingredients, Milk and Honey Market stocks its shelves with locally grown and produced wares. Owners Annie Baum-Stein and Mauro Daigle, who live nearby, have envisioned their West Philly grocery as a “dream pantry,” and their eager clientele agrees. OUR PICK: Locally made honey.

All of Chef Marcie Turney’s chocolates are handcrafted onsite using Lancaster County organic cream and butter, and nearby farms’ produce, herbs and honey.(Photo courtesy Marcie Blaine)

• Verde: Besides jewelry, accessories and home goods, this 13th Street shop, part of Marcie Turney and Valerie Safran’s Midtown Village empire, is home to Marcie Blaine chocolates, whipped up on site in a special kitchen at the back of the store. OUR PICK: Marcie Blaine chocolates, Philadelphia series. OUR PICK: John & Kira’s chocolates (also available at area farmers markets).

• Talula’s Table Market in Kennett Square: As a modern day general store for food enthusiasts of all types, they offer all sorts of homemade specialty foods as well as imported goods from around the world.

Art

• Philadelphia’s Magic Gardens: Visit the gallery at the Magic Gardens for a wide selection of mosaics, Zagar-designed sterling silver jewelry and more. OUR PICK: Handmade mosaic pieces.

• Woodmere Art Museum Holiday Store: During the holiday season the Museum Store expands into the Antonelli Gallery to make room for an extraordinary array of hand-selected and handcrafted items made by local artists. OUR PICK: Locally crafted candlesticks.

• The Art Shop at Moore College of Art & Design: Moore College’s Art Shop houses paintings, crafts and more from Moore students and alumnae. OUR PICK: Hand-made, holiday-perfect greeting cards.

• Art Star Philly: This Northern Liberties gallery/boutique runs the super popular and award-winning Art Star Craft Bazaars. OUR PICK: Gocco framed prints on antique maps and antique letters, like the “Flying Over Philly” piece.

• Center for Art in Wood: A solid 15-20% of the pieces sold in this gorgeous, newly relocated shop are made by local Philly artists. OUR PICK: Any of the gorgeous hand-carved serving pieces.

• Hudson Beach Glass: Following in a family tradition that spans three generations, Sean Gilvey and his wife Emily opened Hudson Beach Glass in October 2008. The store carries more than 40 types of sculptural, functional pieces, all hand crafted and designed in 13 colors by Sean or one of the founding members of Hudson Beach Glass. OUR PICK: Glass cake stand, perfect for holiday baking.

Everything

• Philadelphia Produces Original Design (P.POD) at the Philadelphia Museum of Art Store: This pop-up bazaar showcases Philadelphia-designed jewelry, toys, stationary, furniture and decorative arts. There’s also the “P.POD Pantry” featuring handsomely-packaged local brands like Metropolitan Granola, John & Kira’s Chocolates and La Copine limited-edition bourbon cider syrup and chocolate pretzel toffee. OUR PICK: the resin Ill (as in “Phillies”) pendant from Masters of None.

• Penn Museum’s Museum Shop and Pyramid Shop for children: Select from a diverse collection of clothing, jewelry, games, toys, books, souvenirs and more, collected from almost every corner of the globe, including right here in Philly. Bonus: much of the inventory was obtained through fair trade practices. OUR PICK: The Game of Ur, a recreational wooden game found at the Sumerian city of Ur during a joint expedition by the British Museum and Penn Museum.

• Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts’ Portfolio shop: Set in a light and airy street-level environment in the contemporary Samuel M.V. Hamilton Building, Portflio offers jewelry, gifts, cards, accessories and books carefully selected to reflect the collection and teachings of the Academy. Products include those made exclusively for the Academy, and other items unavailable anywhere else in Philadelphia. OUR PICK: Cube jigger by Philadelphia designer, Josh Owen.

• Square Peg Artery & Salvage: This is an undiscovered gem of a shop in Rittenhouse, stocked with 100% locally crafted goods, from hand-painted ornaments to digital prints and photos to coasters, lamps, magnets, jewelry, you name it. OUR PICK: Chainmaille Ball Ornaments, available in multiple colors, made from anodized aluminum.

• Jinxed: Located right on the Piazza, the shop carries goods (art, clothes and more) from a wide range of local brands. OUR PICK: Broad Street Bootlegs quirky Philly sports teams T-shirts.

• Nice Things Handmade: Located on East Passyunk Avenue, Nice Things Handmade carries locally-made tees, housewares and artwork, plus jewelry from local designers Gretchen Diehl and Typhaney Shanker. OUR PICK: Mike Geno’s fine cheese oil paintings.

• Art in the Age of Mechanical Production: Pick up everything from tees to letter-pressed coasters to books to perfume to liqueurs to soap, all made by hard-working creatives, many local. OUR PICK: Philly-raised Rebecca Suss’s beautiful oil paintings.

• VIX Emporium: This Baltimore Avenue shop offers an eclectic mix of unique handmade gifts, such as jewelry, pottery, art, accessories, soaps, baby gifts and more. OUR PICK: sewZinski hand-embroidered purses and wallets made out of reclaimed leather.

The picnic grove at the gorgeous Shofuso, the tranquil Japanese House and Garden at Fairmount Park, is one of dozens of prime picnicking spots throughout Philadelphia. (Photo by G. Widman for GPTMC)

Technically, July is National Picnic Month. But in our opinion it’s never too late for a useful guide to DIY outdoor eating in Philadelphia.

Below, we’ve outlined all the best summer festivals and concerts coming up to which you’re encouraged to BYO picnic basket and blanket; the most picnic-friendly parks and other swatches of green space that cry out for picnicking pairs and groups; and some of the best cafes and other grocery spots that you can rely on to supply aforementioned picnic basket with delicious food and drink.

The definitive Philadelphia picnic guide, below:

Picnic-Friendly Events

• Fireworks & Fountains at Longwood Gardens: August 13, 9:15 p.m. $38, ages 16 and up; $22, ages 15 and under. Fireworks and music will bathe Longwood’s 1,050-acre horticultural showplace of colorful waterworks and meticulously manicured flora. Picnics unfortunately aren’t allowed on the Conservatory grounds (either the upper or lower level in front of the Conservatory provides the most direct viewing experience), but there is a special picnic area nearby from which you can view the fireworks. As you’re approaching Longwood Gardens, turn left onto Longwood Road rather than going straight through the gardens, and the area will be about a quarter mile to your left.

• Fantastic Fridays at Penn Treaty Park: August 19 and 26, 6:30 p.m. Free. Free concerts and fireworks over the Delaware River make for an awesome al fresco beginning to a summer weekend. Penn Treaty Park is super picnic-friendly, so make sure to pack some tasty nibbles to enjoy throughout the evening.

• Screening of The Sixth Sense in Rittenhouse Square: Saturday, August 13, 8:30 p.m. Free. The Philadelphia Film Society and the Friends of Rittenhouse Square are hosting a free screening of the awesome, iconic, shot-in-Philadelphia movie, The Sixth Sense, in Rittenhouse Square Saturday night. If you want to picnic, make sure to arrive early so you can stake out a good spot.

• Smooth Jazz Summer Nights Concert Series at Penn’s Landing: Fridays in August, 7:30 p.m. Free. Cool off on scorching summer nights with a free smooth jazz concert on the waterfront. Supplement the free live music with a pre-packed evening meal to enjoy as you listen.

• August concerts at the Mann Center: There is ample time left this summer season to take in an under-the-stars concert at Philadelphia’s iconic Mann Center. Go for the family-priced lawn tickets ($10!) if you want to pack a picnic. Lounge on the grass with sandwiches and other portable bites for an unforgettably magical evening.

• Screenings Under the Stars: Thursdays in August, 8 p.m. Free. Nothing says summer quite like (free!) open-air movie screenings, so pack up your blanket and a picnic basket and head to the River Stage at Penn’s Landing Thursdays through this month. Last three movies are, in order: This Is It, Twilight Saga: Eclipse and Despicable Me.

• Scribe Video Center’s Street Movies: Now through August 27, 7:45 p.m. Free. Held at various venues throughout the city from Clark Park to Mill Creek Playground, the Street Movies! series was inspired by the tradition of outdoor screenings at African film festivals and Philadelphia’s street theater movement of the 60s. The picnic-friendly programs are family-friendly and start with a live performance by a local band or performer, followed by the movie screening.

• South Street Headhouse Annual Summer Indie Film Series: Wednesdays through August 31, 8 p.m. Free. Looking for a fun, open-air and free way to spend your Wednesday nights this summer? Grab a chair and head over to Headhouse Square for this annual film series. Bring a chair, a blanket, a picnic basket — and enjoy a summertime evening in one of the city’s most historic locales.

• Schuylkill Banks 2011 Movie Nights: Thursday, August 18, around 8:20 p.m. Free. Bring your friends, blankets and picnic baskets for a great time watching The Incredibles under the stars on the Schuylkill Banks. Last one this summer!

• Liberty Lands Park Summer Movie Series: Tuesdays until August 23, 8:30 p.m. Free. Every Tuesday night at nightfall, popular films ranging from Where the Wild Things Are to Raiders of the Lost Ark will be shown in Liberty Lands park, courtesy of the Northern Liberties Neighbors Association. Pack a picnic!

• International House Philadelphia Outdoor Movie Screenings: August 17 and 31, 8 p.m. Free. International House Philadelphia is joining the outdoor movie fray with free screenings in the picnic-friendly courtyard, replete with tables and chairs.

• XPN Kids Corner Concert at Morris Arboretum: August 11, 6:30-7:30 p.m. Free. The concert, featuring Alex and the Kaleidoscope Band followed by Yosi and the Superdads, is held at Azalea Meadow, a gorgeous and spacious outdoor venue on the grounds of Morris Arboretum. Fun craft activities precede the concert. Get your blankets and picnic baskets ready!

Below, we’ve laid out a host of prime picnicking spots, in addition to a guide to the best grab-and-go food and drink sources.

Nary a summer day passes in Rittenhouse Square without picnic blankets and baskets cloaking the lush grass of the park. (Photo by J. Smith for GPTMC)

Picnic-Friendly Locations

• Rittenhouse Square: Despite the constant buzz of activity in warmer months, there is always picnic space aplenty at what is arguably Philadelphia’s most popular town square. The beautiful plaza, housing a reflecting pool and planted with gorgeous flowers and trees, is surrounded by a balustrade and ringed by a circular walk with ample benches for seating. Large planes of grass are also prime picnic blanket real estate. Ornamental lampposts contribute to an air of old-fashioned gentility, in addition to the sophisticated restaurant row and building surrounding the square on three sides.

• Washington Square: One of Philadelphia’s five original public squares laid out by William Penn in his original plan for the city, Washington Square is a leafy retreat with tree-shaded benches steps from Independence Hall. With dogs trotting happily along the stone paths, a fountain bubbling in the park’s center, and benches and grassy green space galore, the square is a prime picnicking spot in Philadelphia. The 60+ species of trees planted around the scenic square don’t hurt.

• Franklin Square: After you (and the kids) are tuckered out from Philly Mini Golf, a carousel ride, catching up on history at the park’s Once Upon a Nation storytelling bench, settle in one of the benches or tables surrounding the central fountain, or else on the grass encircling the park, for a pre-assembled picnic.

• Love Park: It’s lacking in grass, or even astroturf, but the serene fountain, the iconic LOVE statue and the Center City lunchtime concerts (Wednesdays from noon–1:30 p.m. through August 31) make the park a great picnic option, especially for the downtown office crowd.

• Fairmount Park: With more than 9,200 acres of rolling hills, gentle trails, relaxing waterfront and shaded woodlands, Fairmount Park keeps a wealth of natural landscapes within easy reach. The Grove is a gated picnic area with two picnic pavilions, water and electric hook-ups, eight picnic tables, three charcoal grills, two horseshoe pits, a volleyball court and asoftball field. The site offers indoor restroom facilities, 135 vehicle fenced parking lot and sports equipment (horseshoes, volleyball, badminton, softball & bats and football) for rent. Note that for a group of 75 or more, or for smaller groups just as an optional precautionary measure to ensure you get a spot, you’ll need to download and print a special picnic permit (PDF). Shofuso, the tranquil Japanese House and Garden, is another option with its picnic grove available to picnickers, and Belmont Plateau affords a dramatic view of the Center City Skyline so you can cap off a summer picnic with a gorgeous sunset. Check out an overview of the whole park system to scope out other spots for picnicking.

• Clark Park: Established in 1895, Clark Park is in the heart of University City. With more than 300 trees, the park covers nine acres and hosts the super popular farmers market, May through November on Saturdays and Thursdays and December through April on Saturdays. Your picnic will be made all the more pleasant by the recent changes made to the park, including: recycling receptacles, a new park center with moveable tables and chairs, a new lighting system and newly planted trees.

• Liberty Lands Park: This popular neighborhood park, complete with picnic tables, in Northern Liberties is a great spot to hang out and snack under the sun. Bonus: there’s playground equipment to keep the kids occupied.

• Penn Treaty Park: At the heart of Philadelphia’s burgeoning riverfront, Penn Treaty Park welcomes neighbors and visitors alike with seven acres of open green space, clean picnic areas, new playground equipment and seasonal community events. You’ll forget, within minutes of unpacking your picnic, that you’re in a major city.

• FDR Park: Known to generations of South Philadelphians as “The Lakes,” enjoy a picnic by the lagoon, creek and lakes nestled among the neighborhoods of South Philly. You can work up a picnic appetite by playing golf, tennis, rugby, baseball and softball, or skating in the FDR skate park designed and built by local volunteer skateboarding enthusiasts.

• Race Street Pier: The park story of 2011, the gorgeously scenic new Race Street Pier is open for your picnicking pleasure daily from 7 a.m. until 11 p.m. for the summer season. There’s free wifi, spectacular night lighting including 200 LED Solar Light Blocks embedded into the paving, tiered seating terraces, 37 full-grown trees all on two levels — an upper level with a grand sky promenade and a lower level for gathering and recreation. It’s a sensational addition to Philadelphia’s park system, one that you should definitely take advantage of while it’s still sunglasses weather!

• Rodin Museum Gardens: The first phase of the Rodin Museum’s renovations, the re-landscaping of the museum’s courtyard and beautiful gardens, was recently unveiled. The gardens now enhance the entire block between 21st and 22nd Streets on the Parkway, making for prime picnic grounds, especially given the proximity to one of the world’s most impressive collections of Rodin sculptures. Plus the museum is located just a few blocks from the Philadelphia Museum of Art on the Benjamin Franklin Parkway, convenient to Center City and Fairmount.

• Bartram’s Garden: With its riverfront location and beautiful view of the Philadelphia skyline, Bartram’s Garden is a fabulous summer destination for boating, strolling through fragrant flower gardens and, of course, picnicking. The garden includes a playground, ball fields and a covered picnic pavilion as well as the boat dock, so you can make a full day out of it. Note: picnicking is prohibited in the botanic garden.

• Tyler Arboretum: Tyler Arboretum (which the American Public Gardens Association recently named the “Official Local Garden” of the Philadelphia region) features 20 miles of trails, 650 forested acres and more than 1,000 varieties of trees and shrubs, 23 specimens of which date back centuries. Visitors are welcome to bring food and beverages; picnic tables are located just outside the Visitor Center. The center sells beverages and snacks if you want to supplement your own picnic.

• Azalea Garden: Located directly behind the Philadelphia Museum of Art, this picturesque spot features more than four acres of luminous plantings, including 150 different species of azaleas, rhododendrons, irises, tulips, sycamores, oaks and more. Aside from providing a great photo-op, the garden is a cozy spot for picnicking among the flora.

• Schuylkill River Banks: Spanning eight miles of riverfront winding through the heart of Philadelphia, Schuylkill Banks is open year-round for walking, jogging, cycling, dog-walking and, importantly, picnicking. The verdant park stretches along the Schuylkill River and links the western edge of Center City to the Philadelphia Museum of Art, Fairmount Park and Kelly Drive via the Schuylkill River Park and Trail.

Picnic Suppliers

With all the magical options outlined above, the makings of a great picnic really lie in the locale rather than haute cuisine. But that doesn’t mean there aren’t grab-and-go sources aplenty for both gourmet and casual bites and beverages in Philadelphia.

Food

• Milk & Honey: Celebrating the Philadelphia region’s foodways and indigenous ingredients, this West Philly market stocks its shelves with locally grown and produced wares. Think of it as your dream pantry. Pick up fresh cheese from local farms, or house-made sandwiches assembled with said cheese plus local meats and produce from Lancaster Farm Fresh Co-op and bread from Metropolitan Bakery.

• Green Aisle Grocery: This South Philly store may be tiny, but it’s offerings are vast. The picnic-friendly bounty includes farm produce from Lancaster County and New Jersey, duck and quail from Griggstown Quail Farm, Wild Flour breads, Market Day Canelés, Better Together Brownies, and Remedy Teas. Green Aisle also showcases products made by Philly chefs, like hummus, cured meats, barbecue sauce and pumpkin bread.

• Picnic: It’s literally named Picnic. How could you go wrong? The prepared foods at this carry out store and café in University City are all made on site, plus they carry seasonal local produce and dairy products, not to mention vintage picnic baskets in which you can carry all your freshly assembled food.

• Garces Trading Company: First things first: Garces Trading Company offers three varieties of pre-packed picnics that can be custom designed for up to 20 guests. Picnics To-Go are available for walk-in customers, but you can also place an order by calling the café 24 hours in advance, at (215) 574-1099. If you want to go the a la carte route, the cafe offers luscious cheese, bread, pastries, charcuterie, wine and more, the ideal picnic assembly ingredients.

• Reading Terminal Market: The city’s oldest and most storied local market’s only obstacle to picnic preparation is the potentially overwhelming smorgasbord of options. How to pick? Vendors sell everything from Pennsylvania produce, eggs and meat to Amish baked goods and pickles to Philly specialties like cheesesteaks and Famous Fourth Street cookies. With the addition of the Fair Food Farmstand, which specializes in connecting shoppers with small sustainable area farms and producers, Reading Terminal is more local-centric than ever.

• Metropolitan Bakery: There are five locations, but the Rittenhouse Square and University Cit outposts offer delicious prepared foods in addition to the scrumptious bread and pastries and coffee sold at the other locations. Go for the granola (careful, it’s like crack) as a sweet ending to a crusty baguette and local cheese, or pick up a salad or sandwich at the University City shop.

• Le Bus Bakery: LeBus artisan breads, rolls, and pastries have been in Philadelphia since 1978. Pick up a prepared soup, sandwich or salad if you want something more substantial than (albeit delicious) bread.

• Plenty: East Passyunk’s Plenty is the 21st century’s version of the old-school deli. Handmade cured meats and perfect local produce abound. Pick up jarred and pickled preserves to accompany your other items.

• Di Bruno’s: A glistening specialty food emporium providing a veritable feast for the senses, Di Bruno’s originated in the Italian Market and migrated north as well to Center City. There’s an extensive selection of picnic-perfect specialty products from around the world, from cheese to gourmet meats, pates and a delectable selection of smoked fish and caviar. The Rittenhouse location has a huge wall of prepared foods, from soups to salads to sushi, that are also great for picnic packing.

• Fork:etc: Fork:etc., a combination gourmet take-out spot, charcuterie and specialty market, opened in 2004 right next door to Fork. Stop by for prepared foods like soups, sandwiches and entrees, or for gourmet desserts, artisan cheeses and special gifts from Fork’s kitchen.

• Pumpkin Market: Pumpkin Market offers a little bit of everything — so long as it’s grown locally — from fresh yogurt parfaits, smoked salmon sandwiches, sustainable meats, dairy, produce and breads, all great picnicking options.

Bonus: Stephen Starr’s Perfect Picnics: Stephen Starr Events offers up a summer classic with style with their Perfect Picnics. You choose the location, and then leave it to them to handle the rest. All of the several varieties of picnics come with staff and appropriate dining materials.

Drinks

• Food & Friends: The beer selection at this Rittenhouse gourmet grocery and beer spot is heavily skewed towards quality American craft and good local seasonals. Youcan also pick up snacks like vegetables, hummus and pita to complement your refreshing pours.

• The Foodery: With two locations, Washington Square West and Northern Liberties, you have double the real estate for great imported and regional craft beers. Cool bonus: you can also assemble your own six pack with beers of your choosing.

• The Bottle Shop: Head to East Passyunk for a wide variety of more than 700 American and imported craft beers. They’re available by single bottle or mix and match your own six pack for a ten percent discount. They also offer beer-pairable snacks like nuts and dried fruits, hot dogs, flavored popcorn and gourmet pretzels.

• Wine & Spirits: There are 53 stores throughout the city for picking up wine or liquor to supplement your edibles with drinks.

B2 on East Passyunk getting some love (Photo: Jessica Kourkounis for The New York Times)

The New York Times visits East Passyunk Avenue in this Sunday’s Travel Section and it’s a great feature.

The article talks about the recent growth, citing “an influx of fresh, hipster-ready cafes and boutiques with friendly, low-pressure service.”

The piece then takes a quick tour of the avenue, stopping at places like Metro Men’s Clothing, B2, Capogiro, Fond, Black N Brew, JimmyStyle and Green Aisle Grocery.

Always great to see Philadelphia neighborhoods getting some love from The New York Times.

Make sure you give it a read.

Surfacing – On East Passyunk Avenue in Philadelphia, Style Beyond the Cheese Steak Wars [New York Times]

As of yesterday, there’s a new spot in town (joining the ranks of such gems as the Fair Food Farmstand and Pumpkin Market) that carries nothing but local groceries, making it increasingly easy to fill your kitchen with goodies from our region. Called Green Aisle Grocery, they carry such goodies as hummus from Zahav, sweet treats and preserves from local food writer and pastry chef Baker E and bread from Wildflour bakery.

At this time, hours are 12 noon to 8 p.m. daily. You can find Green Aisle at 1618 E. Passyunk Avenue and you can follow them on twitter for updates on specials as well as what’s in stock.

Green Aisle Grocery Opens Today [Grub Street Philadelphia]
Green Aisle Grocery Opens [Foobooz]