You are reading

Queens Craft Brigade returns for eighth season of handmade magic in Astoria

QCB is back for its 8th season at Katch Astoria. Photo courtesy of Queens Craft Brigade.

May 8, 2025 By Jessica Militello

If you’ve ever wanted to sip a beer while shopping for handmade candles, ceramic planters, or one-of-a-kind art—all crafted by Queens locals—mark your calendar: the Queens Craft Brigade is back.

Starting May 17, the beloved market returns to Katch Astoria for its eighth season, bringing together a dynamic mix of Queens-based artists, makers and designers.

Launched in 2017, QCB has grown into a monthly hub where local creatives not only sell their work but also build lasting connections with the community and each other.

“We created QCB to support local makers and give them a real platform to shine,” said founder Robert Duffy. “What’s grown out of that is something even more special—a community that uplifts each other, event after event, year after year.”

Artwork by Geneva Gee, one of the many talented vendors at QCB. Photo courtesy of Queens Craft Brigade.

Duffy first created QCB after searching for a space where local makers could sell their work—something surprisingly scarce at the time. When that search came up short, he decided to launch his own market.

QCB now takes place every third Saturday of the month through December, with each event held at Katch Astoria located at 31-19 Newtown Ave. Katch is a neighborhood favorite known for its strong sense of community and fun, inclusive atmosphere.

The May event will serve as the season’s kickoff, followed by themed markets each month. Upcoming highlights include “Queers Craft Brigade” in June for Pride Month, and an anniversary celebration in July marking eight years of QCB.

Art by Domingo Carrasco. Photo courtesy of Queens Craft Brigade.

The monthly markets are free to attend and offer a perfect Saturday afternoon idea to peruse the unique works of local artists, and even finding something special for yourself or a loved one. In the eight years since the market started, over 225 Queens-based creatives have participated in the event.

2025 Market Dates:

May 17: Season Kickoff

June 21: Queers Craft Brigade (Pride market, open to only queer makers)

July 19: Eight-Year Anniversary Celebration

Aug.: Off

Sept. 13: Queens Cat Brigade (cat-inspired gifts and more)

Oct. 25: Queens Witchcraft Brigade (Halloween costume contest and more)

Nov. 29: Small Business Saturday

Dec.13: Holiday Market

For more information about QCB’s latest season, go to their website or Instagram.

email the author: news@queenspost.com

Featured Events

Post an Event

View All Events…

No comments yet

Leave a Comment
Reply to this Comment

All comments are subject to moderation before being posted.


The reCAPTCHA verification period has expired. Please reload the page.

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

Recent News
May races in Queens: JFK Airport 5K, Forest Park trail classic and a Queensborough 5K

May. 16, 2025 By Paulina Albarracin

The energy of May is on full display across Queens, with a lineup of local races that invite runners of all levels to hit the pavement and the trails. With mild temperatures and sunny skies setting the stage, it’s the perfect time to take advantage of the spring weather before the summer heat sets in. From the Forest Park 4 Mile Road and Trail Classic to the festive Great Hawaiian Luau 5K at Flushing Meadows-Corona Park, these events offer more than just a workout—they foster community spirit and personal growth. Don’t forget to apply sunscreen before lacing up and heading out. Whether you’re a seasoned runner or new to the sport, these May races offer a chance to challenge yourself and connect with others in motion.

Read More
0
Two women shot at Ocean Bay Apartments in Far Rockaway, gunman still at large: NYPD

Police from the 101st Precinct in Far Rockaway are looking for a gunman who shot two women at the Ocean Bay Apartments in Arverne on the night of Saturday, May 10.

The suspect is seen on video surveillance at around 9:35 p.m. approaching the southeast corner of the NYCHA complex at Beach 54th Street and Arverne Boulevard, where he pulled out a handgun and opened fire at a group of people, striking two women before running off. When officers responded to a 911 call of an assault in progress at the complex, which is also called the Oceanside Apartments, they found the two victims: a 34-year-old woman who was shot in both legs and a 32-year-old woman with a gunshot wound to her leg. EMS responded to the location and transported the victims to Jamaica Hospital Medical Center, where they were both listed in stable condition.

Read More
0
Load More Articles