Hey neighbor,

It’s a new year, we’ve got a new mayor in town, and yes – the old MetroCards are officially out.

2026 showed up, and Jackson Heights welcomed it like an old friend.

Happy Noon Year kicked things off early with a daytime party full of music, dancing, kids, and parents pretending they were “just supervising.” It was such a joyful scene that it even got love from CBS news:

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Then later that night, wificita and I wondered over to the Queensboro and before we knew it, dinner turned into dancing and a full conga line with the whole restaurant joining in (including the owners haha).

If you liked the sound of that vibe and thought, “I want more of this, but maybe with a calendar invite,” you are in luck. Our newcomers meetup on the 19th is how people turn from strangers into familiar faces, and this one comes with an artsy twist thanks to the Jackson Heights Mural Project (and more surprise special guests). Then on the 29th, our dinner club brings neighbors together the best way we know how – shared food, easy conversation, and a table full of people you’ll be glad you met..

Ready for more neighborhood goodness? Let’s dive into this week’s events.

(Looking for more? This is just a short list. See the full calendar at jacksonheightsinsider.com/events)

This Week in Jackson Heights

January 6–12, 2026

Featured Event

🧘 55+ Wellness Circle | Sat, Jan 10 | 1:30–3:30pm | Jackson Heights

A warm, welcoming wellness circle for adults 55+ looking for connection, conversation, and a little breathing room. If you have been feeling isolated or going through a life transition, this space is designed to help you feel supported and seen.

→ Learn more & RSVP​

Recently Moved Here? This Is a Good First Step. Just moved here, thinking about it, or simply curious to meet people nearby? Join our next newcomer meetup where we swap tips, ask questions, and get to know folks around the neighborhood. RSVP for the Meetup on Jan 19th

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Tuesday, Jan 6

First Tuesdays Literacy | 7–9pm | Espresso 77 • stories and good listening → Read more​

Wednesday, Jan 7

34 Ave Chess Club | 2:30–3:30pm | 34th Ave & 93rd St • challenge a neighbor, all ages welcome → Join the game​

Thursday, Jan 8

Easy Chair Yoga For All! (English & Spanish) | 2:30–3:30pm | Jackson Heights Library • gentle stretches, no floor work → Relax here​

Weekly Watercolors Club | 5:30–7pm | A.R.T. Shop • paint, sip, and build skills → Pick up a brush​

Holman Alvarez Piano Solo, Jazz | 7–8pm | Terraza 7 • intimate jazz night • $20 → Reserve a seat​

Saturday, Jan 10

Mulchfest, Travers Park Street Tree Care | 11am–1pm | Travers Park • help trees thrive, dress messy, RSVP required → Sign up​

Zine Celebration Event | 12–2pm | World’s Borough Bookshop • powerful words, local love → Celebrate here​

55+ Wellness Circle | 1:30–3:30pm | Jackson Heights • connection and calm for adults 55+ → Learn more​

NL Kitchen Popup | 6–10pm | The Queensboro • chef-driven feast • $108 → View menu & tickets​

Sunday, Jan 11

34 Ave Bike Classes, All Ages | 3–5pm | 34th Ave & 93rd St • learn to ride, helmets provided → Get rolling​

Monday, Jan 12

La Tienda del Pueblo Clothing Donations | 7:30–11:30am | 34th Ave & 77th St • give clothes a second life → Help out​

More to do in Queens

In partnership with events newsletter Astoria Live – another local events newsletter well worth having in your inbox

Astoria Live Astoria Live is your weekly guide to what’s happening in Astoria, Queens — from live music and comedy shows to pop-ups, classes, and community events. Sign up for the newsletter to discover local gems and connect with your neighbors every week. Subscribe​

Tuesday Evening 3.5-Mile Run | Tue Jan 6, 7–8pm | Woodside Ave & 54th St • easy pace, friendly miles, all welcome → Lace up and run​

Pink Lagoon (Rino and Sakai) | Sat Jan 10, 7:30–8:30pm | Uke Hut, LIC • cozy Japanese folk pop vibes → Catch the show​

Heads-up: times and places can change, so make sure you confirm event details with the organizers before you go.

And remember – this list is just a selection of everything that’s going on locally. You can check out full listings for more events at JacksonHeightsInsider.com/events​

High-Fives & Local Love

Shout-out to the brands keeping this newsletter going:

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Alright neighbors, that’s your weekly excuse to leave the house. Eat something good, talk to someone you have only nodded at before, and if a conga line appears, act surprised. And if you’re new to the neighborhood? The newcomers meetup on the 19th is your official, very friendly entry point. No secret password required. See you out there!

Jonathan (JBS)