👋🏾 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.
This week's newsletter is brought to you by…
⭐ Quest for Connection NYC
This group hosts themed speed dating events so everyone can skip the awkward "what do we have in common" phase of the conversation. Check out their upcoming events; your person might be looking for you!
credit: www.questforconnectionnyc.com
💭 A Note From the Editor
Am I the only one getting bombarded by AMC A-List memes on Tiktok despite NOT being a member? Nothing against AMC but there are lots of ways to watch movies in this city. Also - Times Square is the most convenient location when you’re coming from LIC; but it’s also the WORST one in the city.
This week, I've curated several non-AMC opportunities to watch movies nearby plus some other local happenings. Great date opportunities for anybody lucky enough to meet someone at this week’s speed dating event…👀 Enjoy!
📅 What’s Happening Nearby This Week
4/27/26 (Mon) | 6:30pm | Focal Point Brewery (Hunters Point) | $30
Great for: Single animal lovers who love to talk about their (or other people's) pets
4/29/26 (Wed) | 5pm | Stuart Cinema Cafe (LIC/Astoria border) | $8
Great for: Those who want to see the "Michael" movie but can't stomach a $20 ticket for it
4/29/26 (Wed) | 7pm | 60 W 37th St (Midtown) | $20
Great for: Anyone who couldn't get enough Ryan Gosling in “Hail Mary”
4/29/26 (Wed) | 8pm | Court Square Theater (Court Square) | $35
Great for: Supporters of local theater interested in a new story celebrating friendship
4/30/26 (Thu) | 7-9pm | The Collaboratory (Queensbridge) | $30
Great for: Anyone obsessed with little trinkets for their bags and wants to get crafty
4/30/26 (Thu) | 9pm | Film Noir Cinema (Greenpoint) | $10 (cash only)
Great for: Folks who like "cinema" and want to be surprised
5/1/26 (Fri) | 11:55pm | Nitehawk Cinema (Williamsburg) | $15
Great for: Fans of midnight movie showings interested in watching a provocative oldie
5/2/26 (Sat) | 11-2pm | Vibe Fitness LIC (Hunters Point) | $38
Great for: Anyone who's been curious about Vibe Fitness but refuse to buy the full $50 day pass
5/2/26 (Sat) | 11am | Everyone Comics & Collectibles (Queensborough) | Free
Great for: Comic book fans who want to hang with local artists and get free comics along the way
5/2/26 (Sat) | 7:30-8:30pm | Moon Bunny Aerial (Greenpoint) | $15
Great for: The aerially curious who want to support students showcasing their new skills and creativity
↗️ On The Horizon
Ratatouille-Inspired Meal + Screening → 5/15/26
Note: may not actually be in LIC but this company/concept sounds too cool to not share
Shrek 25th Anniversary - 4DX → 5/17/26
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