The neighborhood's bocce courts in D'Alesandro Park on
Stiles Street were refurbished in 2019 after hosting thousands
of bocce games and tournaments since 1993.
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The bocce court in Little Italy is a popular place to be during warmer months, and often an intriguing sight for visitors strolling past. The courts are open to the public (balls not provided) and include spectator benches, restrooms and a water fountain. (No pets allowed.) Many residents of the neighborhood - and those who grew up here - among other players, enjoy league play between May and September. The courts are most active on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday evenings as teams on two leagues compete in this popular backyard Italian sport.
Previously a playground of St. Leo's School, the bocce courts were built in 1993 and soon after, various leagues formed. Owned by Baltimore City, they have been used for local and national tournaments, including the ones conducted during Saint Leo's two popular summer Italian Festivals. The tournaments draw hundreds of people into the courts to play, spectate and socialize. In 2019, the Department of Recreation & Parks and Baltimore City Government had budgeted money and assisted Little Italy to refurbish the courts.
Previously a playground of St. Leo's School, the bocce courts were built in 1993 and soon after, various leagues formed. Owned by Baltimore City, they have been used for local and national tournaments, including the ones conducted during Saint Leo's two popular summer Italian Festivals. The tournaments draw hundreds of people into the courts to play, spectate and socialize. In 2019, the Department of Recreation & Parks and Baltimore City Government had budgeted money and assisted Little Italy to refurbish the courts.
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LITTLE ITALY BOCCE LEAGUE
Tuesday & Wednesday evenings League Coordinator: Giovanna Blattermann 443.851.3311 or gaquia@aol.com This league also hosts the Saint Gabriel Festival Bocce Tournament in August. A portion of team entry fees are donated to St. Leo's Church. |
ITALIAN AMERICAN BOCCE LEAGUE
Thursday evenings League Coordinator: Dino Basso 410.536.0886 This league also hosts the Saint Anthony Festival Bocce Tournament in June. A portion of team entry fees are donated to St. Leo's Church. |
