Hello Astoria!
We hope everyone had an amazing Pride weekend! As we head into July and Fourth of July weekend, the neighborhood calendar is staying busy with free fitness classes, community events, comedy, and plenty of reasons to get outside. Here's what's happening this week:
Local Gossip:
- There is a virtual Diaper Drive for Astoria Pantry! Now through July 1, use the wishlist to buy diapers to support Astoria Food Pantry. Help them reach their goal of 10,000 diapers!
- Another bank?! It sounds like work has officially started inside the long-vacant building at Broadway & 36th Street. We still don't know who's moving in, but based on the construction... don't be surprised if Astoria gets another bank.
- Gyro City is expanding. A new location is coming to Ditmars Boulevard between Ayy Chihuahua and The Pomeroy (36th–37th Streets). If the name sounds familiar, that's because they already have a popular spot on 30th Avenue.
- Rent freeze incoming? If approved, Mayor Zohran Mamdani's Rent Guidelines Board appointments could lead to the city's first rent freeze for stabilized apartments in years. We'll be watching this one closely.
- Pour one out for Kevin. Universal Basic Guys (formerly Kevin), the animated comedy set in Astoria, has officially been canceled after one season.
- Matrix Gym is becoming PureGym. The longtime neighborhood gym will be rebranding in the coming months. Members should keep an eye out for updates as the transition gets underway.
- Tall ships are returning! On July 3 from 1–3pm, a fleet of historic tall ships will sail through Hell Gate and down the East River ahead of the Fourth of July celebrations. You can find the full schedule here.
- Another Pilates studio is on the way. Plait Pilates is opening on 21st Street and 31st Road beneath one of the newer condo buildings. It also looks like the neighboring commercial space is still available, so stay tuned.
- Adult lap swim is back! Starting July 6, weekday lap swim returns to Astoria Pool from 7–8:30am. It's free, but registration is required.
- One last milk tea? The Teapsy on 30th Avenue will close at the end of July after 10 years. Staff say the lease is ending and ownership has decided not to renew. End of an era.
Cheers,
Angelina & Stacey
This week in Astoria
Monday, June 29, 2026
"Summer Solstice" Group Exhibition at The Brick Wall Gallery
6pm, Bar Dalia, @brickwallgallery_bardalia
Celebrate the arrival of summer with an evening of art, community, and conversation at Brick Wall Gallery’s Summer Solstice exhibition. Featuring a diverse group of artists, the show brings together bold abstract works, vibrant contemporary pieces, and unique artistic perspectives in the welcoming atmosphere of Bar Dalia in Astoria. See the Art and Meet the Artists at our Opening Party!
Sandbox Story 5 at Q.E.D. Astoria
7:30pm, QED ASTORIA, @thewonderaudit, Cost: $5
What happens when five random objects inspire a story? Join Gyll Star for Sandbox Story 5, an interactive experience where the audience helps create a one-of-a-kind adventure filled with creativity, laughter, and surprise.
Tuesday, June 30, 2026
Raising Astoria Moms Book Club: Fine Art of Lying
7:30pm, Rosalie's, @raisingastorianyc
We're meeting at Rosalie's to discuss the Fine Art of Lying by Alexandra Andrews. Reading the book is not required!
Trivia Tuesday
8pm, The Bonnie, @zoehoststrivia @thebonniebar @nyctrivialeague
Trivia is every Tuesday at 8pm at The Bonnie! Free to play and tons of fun. Great food and drinks!
Sunset Meditation with Mindful Astoria
7pm, Socrates Sculpture Park, @socratespark
Unwind with a free guided sunset meditation featuring mindful breathing, gentle movement, and loving-kindness practices. All experience levels are welcome.
Wednesday, July 1, 2026
World Cup U.S. Soccer Watch Party: USMNT vs. Bosnia-Herzegovin
8pm, Rivercrest, @ao_qns
The World Cup is here, and Rivercrest is your U.S. match day headquarters! Don’t watch alone—join the American Outlaws Queens chapter at Rivercrest for U.S. soccer watch parties: BIG SCREEN projector, multiple TVs, SOUND UP loud, and HAPPY HOUR pricing, including Guinness!
Thursday, July 2, 2026
Low Impact Bodyweight Circuit Training
6pm, Astoria Park Pool Deck, @shapeupnyc
Build strength and improve mobility with a beginner-friendly, low-impact fitness class designed to help you move safely and confidently.
Comedy for Peace
8pm, Grove34, @grove34nyc
Laugh for a good cause at this fundraiser supporting Peace Action New York, featuring an evening of comedy at Grove34.
Friday, July 3, 2026
Cannavita Gallery Exhibition & Game Night
6–11pm, Cannavita Dispensary, @cannavita_dispensary
Celebrate opening night with local art, games, live DJs, and a community gathering featuring work from Queens artists and creatives.
Saturday, July 4, 2026
NYRR Open Run
8:45am, Astoria Park, @nyrr
NYRR Open Run brings free, 5K weekly community-led runs, to neighborhood parks across the greater New York City area. The program is free and open to runners and walkers of all ages, abilities, and experience levels.
B-B-QED
5:30pm, QED Astoria, @qedastoria
Cookout meets comedy at B-B-QED, a stand up show right in QED’s backyard! Your $25 ticket comes with dinner and a stellar lineup. There’s a 5:30 slot and an 8 pm slot!
Sunday, July 5, 2026
F1 Austrian GP Watch Party
10am, Kitty Sullivan's, @queens.f1racing
It's one of the most anticipated races of the year - Silverstone! Come on down to Kitty Sullivan's for the British GP! Lights out at 10am - get there early to claim your space. And of course, breakfast will be provided!
Make sure to confirm all event details with the organizers!
Around the Boroughs
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A weekly roundup of the best events, markets, and happenings in and around Jackson Heights. Perfect for neighbors who want to stay in the loop and support local life. |
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