👋🏾 Local Side Quests is a guide to enjoying your time outside of work in and near LIC. Each issue is a curated list of classes, activities and gatherings nearby that invite community, curiosity, and/or creativity. Disclosure: This issue includes paid placement, but opinions are my own.
👀 Sneak Peek
More Lunar New Year stuff
Online shopping
Soundbath
…and more! Read ahead for details!
💭 When You Reeaallyy Want to Stay Home
This Sunday marks the last sunset of the season before 6pm, which means seasonal depression will finally start to wane. This week is the beginning of the end for us winter homebodies and I’m personally leaning into it. I want to stay inside but that prompts the question - how can I participate in the community from home? Well I’ve got you covered this week!
I’ve curated a few businesses with online stores plus events with virtual options. I’ve also found some normal events for you extroverts!
See you guys in March!
⭐ Spotlight - Book Culture
Credit: www.bookculture.com
This week, I’m highlighting Book Culture LIC! Part of a small local chain of bookstores, Book Culture has been my go-to destination for filling my book shelf. They host a book club and lots of author talks, plus lots of family-friendly programming. I admire their community building efforts and their dedication to literacy!
Scroll through their calendar (double check location) to find upcoming events. Also stop by in person for their “blind date with a book” section!
📅 What’s Happening Nearby This Week
2/23/26 (Mon) | 6:15-7:15pm | Quintessential Therapy | $33
Great for: Anyone looking for relaxation, good vibrations, and warm tea
2/24/26 (Tue) | 6-7:15pm | 3am Theater | $15
Great for: Dancers & those curious about dance who want to move their bodies
2/26/26 (Thu) | 6-7pm | Virtual | Free
Great for: Anyone wanting to close out Black History Month in support of a modern author
2/26/26 (Thu) | 6:30-9:30pm | 100 Sutton St | PWYC Donation
Great for: Casual singers who like community and good vibes
2/27/26 (Fri) | 4-6pm | LIC Food Hall | Free
Great for: Anyone excited for an all-out Lunar New Year celebration
2/27/26 (Fri) | 7-9:30pm | The Sewing Clubhouse | $35
Great for: Fans of the Crazy Rich Asians movie who are interested in embroidery
2/28/26 (Sat) | 6pm | Court Square Theater / Virtual | PWYC Donation
Great for: Theater enthusiasts interested in local art and fresh stories
Online shopping
Great for: Booktok folks tired of shopping at Barnes & Noble
Online shopping
Great for: Knitters, crocheters, and seamstresses looking for fresh supplies and creative inspiration
Online shopping
Great for: Gamers who need fresh cards for their deck
↗️ On The Horizon
Liberty Scrap → 3/1/26
Metal Concert: Zeke Sky & more → 3/7/26
Interested in including your business? Fill out the form linked below or email [email protected] for details.