👋🏾 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 newsletter issue includes paid placement, but opinions are my own.
💭 When You're By Yourself
Happy Spring! We’re officially in the new season and I’m excited to explore the neighborhood in broad daylight. Unfortunately for me, my husband is busy the next few weeks on a project; so I’ll be rolling around solo more often than usual. However, this situation inspired this week’s theme!
I’ve curate some activities that can still be fun when you’re by yourself - although a few will definitely feel better with friends. Sometimes, you just have to go out and start talking to people (or just sit by yourself, that’s fine too). This city is the perfect place to explore alone and LIC is no different <3
Enjoy!
⭐ Spotlight - Quest For Connection
Credit: www.questforconnectionnyc.com
Speed dating is evolving and coming stronger than ever to LIC! This week, I’m highlighting Quest For Connection, a local group curating a series of speed dating events across LIC/Astoria. Their specialty is predefining a point of connection to help light the spark of conversation. This helps potential couples-to-be jump straight into chatting instead of finding a common ground.
Some past themes include: Travel Lovers, Pet Lovers, & Educators
Check out their upcoming events to find your person and join the cult of couples in LIC!
📅 What’s Happening Nearby This Week
3/23/26 - 3/28/26 | All Lockwood Astoria locations (Astoria)
Great for: Folks who love trinkets and random home goods shopping
Sale percentage increases every day this week!
3/23/26 (Mon) | 6:30pm | Focal Point Brewery (Hunter's Point) | $30
Great for: Singles looking for connection and love talking about their fur babies (or other people's fur babies)
3/24/26 (Tue) | 9:30pm | Nitehawk Cinema (Williamsburg) | $15
Great for: Anyone who just needs a night away to sit and watch something interesting
3/25/26 (Wed) | 5pm | Doha Bar Lounge (LIC/Astoria border)
Great for: Tabletop game enthusiasts looking to gorge on discount wings
3/25/26 (Wed) | 6:30-10pm | Fifth Hammer Brewery (Hunter's Point) | $25
Great for: Anyone with DnD interest but can't commit to a full multi-week campaign
3/25/26 (Wed) | 7-9:30pm | The Greats Craft of LIC - Warehouse (Queensbridge) | $5
Great for: Anyone who just wants to show up and listen to others be funny, vulnerable, and everything in between
3/26/26 (Thu) | 6:30pm | The Collaboratory (Queensbridge) | $10 (PWYC Donation)
Great for: Comic artists who enjoy seeing other people's work and can provide helpful feedback
3/27/26 (Fri) | 7-8:20pm | City Ice Pavilion (Sunnyside) | $95
Great for: Experienced figure skaters who want guidance on strengthening their performance
3/28/26 (Sat) | 7pm | Vital Gym Brooklyn (Williamsburg) | $20 (free for members)
Great for: Fans of aerials silks who enjoy well rehearsed and creative performances
3/28/26 (Sat) | 7-10pm | Lately Cafe (Court Square) | $110
Great for: Cocktail enthusiasts who like to be told what to try
↗️ On The Horizon
Paint Wooden Bookmarks ‘n Sip Tea → 3/31/26
Volunteer for Kids Soccer → starts 4/18/26 (register yourself - you will see the volunteer options if you complete registration)
Annual LIC Waterfront 5K → 6/6/26 (just enough of time to complete the Couch-to-5k program!)
Interested in including your business? Fill out the form linked below or email [email protected] for details.