Celebrate The Holiday Season In Astoria!
While there are so many things to love about Astoria all year long, there is something extra special about our beautiful neighborhood during the holiday season. From the festively decorated storefront windows to the sparkling lights that line the streets, Astoria shines just a little bit brighter this time of year. Of course, the holiday season also brings with it a long list of neighborhood events and festivities to attend—as well as gifts to be bought, parties to be supplied, treats to be eaten, and cocktails to be sipped. It can get overwhelming, which is why we have a curated list of the top local events, markets, treat shops, shopping destinations, and cozy hangouts that you should make time for this holiday season.
Festive Events & Holiday Markets:
Holiday Market at Bohemian Hall & Beer Garden
The favorite beer garden of many Astorians will transform into a delightful artisan holiday market on Sundays, December 8th and 15th. Presented by Astoria Market, there will be a variety of different handmade and vintage goods on display, including clothing, accessories, baked goods, and unique holiday gifts. As this market is taking place at Bohemian Hall, there will of course be an extensive selection of craft beer and delicious food available to you as you browse as well. It is a can’t-miss event, and a great way to support local artisans and craftspeople.
29-19 24th Ave I December 8th and 15th, 12pm – 6pm I @astoriamarket I astoriamarket.com
Victory Garden Cafe’s Christmas Party
Victory Garden Cafe is opening its doors to one and all for its annual Christmas party on Sunday, December 15th. Patrons will be offered a special Christmas menu featuring a variety of dinner options, as well as holiday drinks and desserts. For the young ones, there will be a visit from Santa, holiday craft making, arcade games, a Christmas scavenger hunt, and more. If you’re looking for a family friendly outing that will supply some infectious Christmas cheer this December, then this is the event for you.
21-69 Steinway St I December 15th, 3:30pm I @victorygardencafe I victorysweetshop.com
Astoria Holiday Happenings
From tree lightings and strolling carolers to exciting Mariachi performances and Santa sightings, the neighborhood has planned a variety of events to get residents and visitors alike into the holiday spirit. Whether you’re looking to explore the vibrant streets of 30th Avenue, Ditmars Boulevard, or Steinway Street, there’s something magical waiting for you this December. Mark your calendars and join the celebration—Astoria has never felt so festive!
Holiday Film Screenings at the Museum of the Moving Image
Several times throughout December, one of Astoria’s premier attractions, The Museum of the Moving Image, will be hosting holiday film screenings. On December 14th and 15th, MoMI will be celebrating the 45th anniversary of the underseen and hard-to-find Christmas special, John Denver & The Muppets: A Christmas Together, by screening the special alongside some additional classic Henson holiday clips in their Redstone Theater.
These screenings serve as an excellent companion piece to the museum’s incredibly popular Jim Henson exhibit. Later in the month, MoMI will be showing Tyler Taormina’s new film, Christmas Eve in Miller’s Point on December 21st and December 22nd in the Bartos Screening Room. Holiday film enthusiasts looking for a couple of new additions to their yearly watchlist should definitely check out these films.
36-01 35th Ave I December 14th, 15th, 21st, 22nd I @movingimagenyc I movingimage.org
Central Astoria’s Holiday Mariachi Performance
On Saturday, December 14th, Central Astoria will be presenting a holiday mariachi performance on 36th Avenue, between 29th and 36th street. This event is a great opportunity for Astorians to participate in a truly communal and festive holiday celebration. Don’t be afraid to brave the cold December elements because you are destined to find warmth in both the music and the strong sense of community.
36th Avenue I December 14th, 1:00pm – 3:00pm I @centralastorialdc I centralastoria.org
Winter Wonder at the Garden
Although there will be no shortage of holiday festivities in the neighborhood this December, if you are looking to travel for an event slightly outside of Astoria then the Winter Wonder at the Queens Botanical Garden is the perfect event for you. Right now, tickets are on sale for December 7th. Adults get in for only $6, while students between the ages of 13 and 17 can get a ticket for $4, kids aged 4 to 12 get in for $2, and children three years old or younger get in for free. Inside the event will be live music, Christmas caroling, a live Santa, craftsmaking, an outdoor holiday market, seasonal drinks at their Holiday bar, and it will all culminate with a tree lighting ceremony. It is a marvelous event for the whole family to enjoy.
43-50 Main St, Flushing I December 7th, 12:00pm – 4:30pm I @queensbotanicalgarden I queensbotanical.org
Astoria Christmas Bar Crawl
This year, four of Astoria’s most beloved bars—The Wolfhound, The Irish Rover, Sissy McGinty’s, and Murphy’s Bar—are coming together to host a Christmas bar crawl on Saturday, December 7th. Each bar will have drink specials, costume prizes, free merch & candy canes, and the night will end with a DJ at the last stop, Murphy’s Bar. Tickets are only $15 for a full day of cheerful holiday drinking.
December 7th, 3:00pm-8:00pm I @murphysbarastoria
Central Astoria’s “Santa on Steinway Street”
On Saturday, December 14th, take your young ones to visit Santa at Earth & Me. This event, which is free to enter, is presented by Central Astoria and will definitely be a hit with families in the neighborhood. As we all know, the holidays are really about the kids, and you will cherish seeing your child’s face light up when they see Santa.
30-38 Steinway St I December 14th, 12:00pm – 2:00pm I @centralastorialdc I centralastoria.org
The 4th Annual Dave’s Lesbian Bar Queer Holiday Market
Returning this year for its fourth installment, the Queer Holiday Market presented by Dave’s Lesbian Bar is a festive celebration of love, creativity, and community. Tickets cost $10 and the market will take place on Saturday, December 14th from 12:00 to 7:00PM at the Bohemian Hall & Beer Garden. At the market, there will be plenty of food and drink to go around, a plethora of goods from over 170 local queer artisans, as well as a full lineup of live music from local musicians. The giving spirit will be in full effect too, with local community partners hosting toy, coat, and can & supply drives.
29-19 24th Ave I December 14th, 12:00pm – 7:00pm I @daveslesbianbar I daveslesbianbar.com
Christmas Film Showcase at QED
On the 15th and 22nd of December, QED will be hosting its first annual Christmas Film Showcase. This ambitious and exciting event, which is being described as a new film festival for high-concept low-budget Christmas and holiday movies, is a great way to get in the holiday spirit while supporting local artists and filmmakers. All different types of genres and filmmaking styles will be on display. $10 tickets are on sale now for what promises to be a truly unique, fulfilling, and memorable holiday experience.
27-16 23rd Ave I December 15th & 22nd I @qedastoria I qedastoria.com
Create Holiday Themed Artwork in Clay at A.R.R.O.W Fieldhouse
If you’re feeling crafty this December, then this holiday themed clay workshop is the perfect event for you. Led by Noelle Casella, this workshop is open to all levels. Meaning, whether you are a seasoned artist or someone just looking to step out of your comfort zone and make something that will add to your home’s holiday aesthetic, you will enjoy this experience.
35-30 35th St I December 11th, 6:00pm – 8:00pm / More Info
Shop Small for Everyone on Your List:
Lockwood
Lockwood’s flagship Astoria location has been a neighborhood favorite ever since it opened its doors. Inside, you will find no shortage of custom and locally designed items, unique gifts, and charming Astoria and NYC themed products. With a wide variety of goods available, including extensive home decor, kitchenware, and jewelry collections, you will be sure to find something for everyone on your list at Lockwood.
You can also browse their large selection of holiday candles and tree ornaments if you are looking for something to spruce up your own home this season. Don’t forget to make a stop at their neighboring stationary store, Lockwood Paper, for all your gift bag and wrapping paper needs—as well as their clothing store, Lockwood Style, to find something extra for any of the special someone’s on your list.
32-15 33rd St I 718.626.6030 I lockwoodshop.com
Astoria Bookshop
If it’s a bookworm that you’re shopping for, there’s no better place to visit than Astoria Bookshop. Here, you’ll find a massive selection of books in every genre, as well as puzzles, games, and accessories. If you’re not a literature expert but want to make sure you pick something worthwhile for the book lover on your list, check out Astoria Bookshop’s staff picks. It is a shop run by and for book obsessives so their recommendations are safe to trust. And, if you’re shopping for a local avid reader but are not sure what book is next on their list, Astoria Bookshop has you covered with both physical and e-gift cards available for purchase.
36-19 30th St I 718.278.2665 I astoriabookshop.com
The Gift Box
The Gift Box is one of Astoria’s most charming and inviting stores. Priding themselves on sourcing unique gifts from local artisans, this little shop is sure to have something that will wow your loved ones on Christmas morning. From candles, to personalized gift sets, organic cosmetics, and paper goods—there is so much to explore at The Gift Box. You will be able to knock off a ton of your holiday shopping with just one visit.
25-11 Broadway I 347.813.4881 I giftboxastoria.com
The Brass Owl
This hip and fun boutique is a great place to visit when rounding out your holiday shopping. Not only will you be able to find a number of great gifts for those on your list, but you will also be able to browse their festive holiday themed sweaters, tote bags, and candles. Whether you’re shopping for someone else or looking for a holiday gift for yourself, The Brass Owl has a ton of great options that are bound to add some joyful cheer to your, sometimes tiring, holiday shopping.
36-19 Ditmars Blvd I 347.848.0905 I thebrassowl.com
Pancakes Records
The music lover on your list will be more than thrilled if you choose to head on over to Pancakes Records to pick up their gift this holiday season. With an extensive selection of new and preowned records in a variety of genres, Pancakes has something for every music enthusiast out there, regardless of their age or taste. This chic shop is also home to an art gallery displaying works from local artists. It is a truly special community space and, since opening last year, a very welcome addition to the neighborhood.
20-77 Steinway St I 718.233.8666 I pancakes-records.com
The Bier & Cheese Collective
For the foodie on your list, head over to The Bier & Cheese Collective on Ditmars Boulevard. This welcoming and distinctive establishment is not just the neighborhood’s preeminent provider of craft beers, cured meats, and artisanally crafted cheeses—it is also the place to find some of the finest specialty grocery items in all of Astoria. They have plenty of unique spreads, sauces, and spices, among other things, available for purchase. Sometimes, a thoughtful food or drink gift is the perfect option for that hard-to-shop-for person in your life.
35-11 Ditmars Blvd I 718.255.6982 I bierandcheese.com
Holiday Sweet Treats:
Gian Piero Bakery
Feel like you’re visiting Italy this holiday season by making a trip to Gian Piero Bakery. Known for their Italian rainbow cookies and decadent cannoli, this bakery excels in holiday classics that transport your taste buds straight to Naples. Always offering fresh-baked cookies, cupcakes, and pastries, picking up something at Gian Piero before your next holiday outing is sure to make you the star of the party.
4417 30th Ave I 718.274.8959 I gianpierobakery.com I 4.3 out of 5 Stars (Yelp)
Il Fornaio
Il Fornaio is a go-to destination for all your holiday dessert needs. From cheesecakes, to cookies, to cupcakes, they have everything you need to indulge in a little sweetness this season. Their tiramisu is one of the standout items, and is sure to be a big hit at any festive celebration you bring it to this month.
29-14 30th Ave I 718.267.0052 I ilfornaionyc.com I 4.4 out of 5 Stars (Yelp)
Martha’s Country Bakery
Do yourself a favor and visit this classic and beloved NYC bakery at least once this holiday season. Indulge in their iconic Berry Napoleon, or perhaps just sip on something from their extensive hot chocolate and coffee menus. Whatever you choose to order, you definitely won’t regret stopping into Martha’s on a cold December afternoon or night. It is certainly a must-do for Astorians trying to experience as much holiday magic as possible this season.
36-21 Ditmars Blvd I 718.545.9737 I marthascountrybakery.com I 3.8 out of 5 Stars (Yelp)
Pastries by Anne
At Pastries by Anne, you will find a number of delectable handcrafted artisan pastries, desserts, and sweets. You can’t go wrong celebrating the season with one of their delightful creations. Their unique and festively designed treats are perfect for any upcoming holiday party or family gathering. The rest of the attendees will be thanking you nonstop.
28-13 Ditmars Blvd I 718.255.1574 I @pastriesbyanne I 4.8 out of 5 Stars (Yelp)
Paris Oven Bakery
For a French flair this season, visit one of Astoria’s coziest hidden gems, Paris Oven. Their French croissants and pastries are as elegant as they are delicious. It is the perfect spot to pick up a gift-worthy treat, or just something sweet for you to enjoy yourself.
38-12 30th Ave I 718.204.0204 I @parisoven I 4.1 out of 5 Stars (Yelp)
Cozy Spots to Warm Up at With a Cocktail
The Last Word
If you’re looking for a speakeasy vibe with an impressive cocktail menu, The Last Word is the perfect place to find respite from the winter weather. Featuring a cozy ambiance, comfortable couches, expertly crafted cocktails, and live jazz every Sunday evening, this enchanting bar will make the holiday season feel warm, sophisticated, and relaxing. And if you really need to warm up due to the outside elements, The Last Word’s menu features a delicious Hot Toddy.
31-30 Ditmars Blvd I 718.440.3378 I tlwcocktailbar.com I 4.1 out of 5 Stars (Yelp)
The Bonnie
The Bonnie, one of Astoria’s most praised and adored restaurants, epitomizes festive coziness. With its warm decor, inventive cocktail offerings, and welcoming aesthetic, it really is the ideal spot to get together and share a meal with friends, family members, or loved ones this holiday season. And with a fresh reimagined look and an exciting new menu, a visit the Bonnie this December will feel extra special, regardless if you are a devoted regular or unfamiliar first-timer. Make sure to visit the recently open to the public Charlie’s, Astoria’s littlest pub, on your way out.
29-12 23rd Ave I 718.274.2105 I thebonnie.com I 4.1 out of 5 Stars (Yelp)
Maggie Hall’s
It is essentially impossible to spend an Astoria evening at Maggie Hall’s and leave feeling disappointed. And when it comes to the winter months, there is something extra special about this cozy neighborhood haunt. With a unique combination of rustic charm and vibrant energy, this an excellent location for holiday drinks with friends. And with weekly trivia on Mondays, Wine Wednesday deals, live music every Thursday, and a generous happy hour deal seven days a week, there is never a bad time to visit Maggie Hall’s.
34-06 30th Ave I maggiehalls.com I 3.9 out of 5 Stars (Yelp)
Mosaic
A true one of a kind bar in the neighborhood, Mosaic’s stylish yet cozy environment makes it a favorite choice of many Astorians every December. Their thoughtful and expansive cocktail menu is evidence of the perfect blend of comfort and creativity that they have managed to achieve. It’s the type of place you envision yourself unwinding at after a long day braving the winter elements.
25-19 24th Ave I 718.728.0708 I mosaicastoria.com I 4.6 out of 5 Stars (Yelp)
