Nov. 30, 2023 By Nevine Salameh
As we transition from Thanksgiving, the Queens community is lining up for a weekend filled with festivities, ushering in the holiday spirit.
Scheduled events include the Parade on Rockaway, Astoria’s tree lighting ceremony, an opportunity to give back at the annual toy drive and more. For those looking for a fun night out with some friends, a date or even solo, musical performances and nightlife options are aplenty.
Friday, Dec. 1
Join Blend Lounge for their Fire Jam Friday event that will feature a night full of food from Dee Dutchies and music from Supa Pudgie, Backyard Promotions, DJ Speede and much more. The event is for individuals aged 21 and above and there will be a dress code in effect. (Blend Lounge, 127-07 Atlantic Ave., Richmond Hill. 10 p.m. to 4 a.m. Admission: Free for ladies before 11 p.m., $23.18 for adults)
HopeNYC Church is presenting the ninth annual Parade on Rockaway, a three-day Christmas celebration. From Friday until Dec. 3, come and enjoy the artisan holiday winter village, featuring festive Christmas displays, toy giveaways, live music and dance performances and unique food vendors. The extravaganza will kick off with a Christmas tree lighting, followed by a visit to Santa and an opportunity here to reserve a free toy for your child on Dec. 2, and the million light parades on Dec. 3. (HopeNYC Church, 142-82 Rockaway Blvd., Jamaica. 3 to 9 p.m. Admission: Free)
Saturday, Dec. 2
Performing Rock-n-Roll classics by The Eagles, America, The Doobie Brothers and more ‘70s radio classics, Vinyl Radio is a group of artists with experience touring alongside legendary acts like Huey Lewis, Faith Hill, Trisha Yearwood and others, who will deliver guests back to an era of guitar and melody. (Queensborough Performing Arts Center, 222-05 56th Ave., Oakland Gardens. 8 to 10 p.m. Admission: $38 to $63)
Families and friends are invited to celebrate this holiday at the Queens Botanical Garden, where guests can partake in holiday crafts, free selfies, tree lighting, live musical performances, shopping at the QBG shop and Indoor Holiday Market, the hot chocolate bar, a menorah and much more. (Queens Botanical Garden, 43-50 Main St., Flushing. Noon to 5 p.m. Admission: free for members, $3.09 for children, $5.19 for students, seniors and individuals with disabilities, $7.29 for adults)
Sunday, Dec. 3
CALDC’s 11th Annual “Holiday Festival & Tree Lighting Celebration”
With the support of public funds from the New York City Department of Cultural Affairs and Council Member Tiffany Cabán, the Astoria Park Great Lawn will hold a holiday tree lighting festival and celebration, inviting all to a festive afternoon of a dance performance by The Sugarplums, a Scholastic giveaway, entertainment by Sassi Entertainment Unlimited, refreshments like hot cocoa and coffee, crafts and more. (Astoria Park Great Lawn, 19th Street and 23rd Avenue, Astoria. 3 to 5 p.m. Admission: Free)
Commonpoint Queens Toy and Coat Drive
Commonpoint Queens is back with their third annual toy and coat drive, and they are inviting all to join their community in giving back to spread the holiday cheer to children and families in need. Donations of new toys for infants and children up to 10 years old, new or gently used coats and wrapping paper are encouraged. (Commonpoint Queens Central Queens, 67-09 108th St., Forest Hills. Noon to 3 p.m. Admission: Free)