👋🏾 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 supported by…
⭐ Make Your Mark! Abstract Paint ‘n Sip
Engage in this classic with a creative twist! Head over to Oliver’s Astoria this week for a paint-n-sip experience without any rules. Grab your drink and let your brush tell you what to paint.
Click button below for details and to sign up!
credit: @aliceabstract - IG
💭 A Note From the Editor
Honestly, what else is there to say today except GO KNICKS!
Enjoy this week’s selection of events! Lots of Pride Month vibes 🌈
P.S. While looking for my Game 5 camping spot, I took note of some places that will probably stream the World Cup. Not comprehensive by any means but I hope this helps someone make their watch party plans!
Fifth Hammer Brewing Company (Hunters Point)
Focal Point Beer Co (Queensbridge)
The Shannon Pot (Court Square)
LIC Bar (Vernon)
The Gutter Bar (Hunters Point)
Greats of Craft Warehouse (Queensbridge)
Gantry Bar (Vernon)
The Baroness (Vernon) / The Huntress (Queensbridge)
Woodbines (Vernon)
Dominies Hoek (Vernon)
Dai Hachi Sushi (Vernon)
PJ Leahy’s (Vernon)
Finback Brewery (Queensborough)
First Stop Bar & Grill (Queensborough)
📅 What’s Happening Nearby This Week
6/15/26 (Mon) | 6-7pm | City Pickle (Queensbridge) | $20
Great for: Anyone who's been intimidated by pickling and wants to join the fun this summer
6/17/26 (Wed) | 6-9pm | Fifth Hammer Brewing Company (Hunters Point) | Free
Great for: Crafters looking for friends in the neighborhood or need a reason to mingle
6/17/26 (Wed) | 6-8pm | ReMix Market (new location!) (Waterfront) | $60
Great for: Anyone who loves thrifting and has experienced "this is so cute but it has a hole!"
6/17/26 (Wed) | 7pm | NY Irish Center (Hunters Point) | Free
Great for: Anyone interested wanting to learn traditional Irish gaelic dance in a queer space
6/17/26 (Wed) | 7-9pm | Oliver's Astoria (Astoria) | $55.00 Including One Drink and Supplies
Great for: Friends who need plans this week and love a good sip and paint
6/18/26 (Thu) | 6:30pm | Safir Mediterranean (Hunters Point) | Purchase a meal
Great for: Queer foodies and allies looking for camaraderie over a good meal
6/19/26 (Fri) | 6:30pm | Museum of Moving Images (LIC/Astoria border) | $17.5
Great for: Spike Lee fans looking for a way to celebrate Juneteenth
6/20/26 (Sat) | 3-11pm | 31st Ave Open Street (Astoria) | Free entry
Great for: BBQ enthusiasts looking for classic street fair/block party vibes
6/20/26 (Sat) | 6:30-7:30pm | Moon Bunny Aerial (Greenpoint) | $5
Great for: Anyone who loves K-Pop music and wants to dance to the queer classics
6/21/26 (Sun) | 2-10pm | Culture Lab (Waterfront) | Free
Great for: Folks looking to support trans and nonbinary artists and performers
↗️ On The Horizon
Street Tree Care → June 25
Fundraiser Paddle → June 26
TableHop IndieRPG Palooza → June 27
Interested in including your business? Fill out the form linked below or email [email protected] for details.