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Issue 011 • May 2026


The Downtown Jamaica Partnership manages, beautifies, and promotes Downtown Jamaica, Queens, also known as DJQ. Got an event or promotion coming up? Send us the details so we can share it on our website, social media, and this newsletter.

Upcoming Events

DJQ Moves


Thursdays @ 8:30 AM

Rufus King Park


Come move with DJQ! This spring We're partnering with local fitness instructor Monice Small to bring free, accessible, low-impact exercise to Downtown Jamaica—including standing yoga, tai chi, pilates, and more. No equipment required, just show up ready to move! Classes start May 21 at Rufus King Park. Enter from the entrance on jamaica avenue closest to 153rd st.

Queens International Children's Festival 

Saturday May 16, 2026, 12 PM

150-29 Jamaica Ave, Jamaica, Queens



JCAL's annual Queens International Children's Festival celebrates global culture with a joyful, multilingual weekend of hands-on creativity and community for families of all backgrounds. The free event features live music and dance, arts and crafts, a bouncy house, mini-golf, and more at Rufus King Park. Bring the whole family for a day of fun!

Prospect Cemetery & Chapel of the Sisters Tour

Sunday May 17, 2026, 10 AM

94-15 159th Street Jamaica, Queens


The New York Landmarks Conservancy's Sacred Sites Open House weekend returns with a free guided tour of Prospect Cemetery and the Chapel of the Sisters. This exclusive tour is open to the public, but advance registration is required. 

Memorial Day Observance Ceremony

Wednesday May 20, 2026, 12 PM

Queens Borough Hall 120-55 Queens Blvd. in Kew Gardens


Join Queens Borough President Donovan Richards Jr. for a Memorial Day Observance Ceremony at Queens Borough Hall. Honor and remember those who made the ultimate sacrifice for our country. All are welcome to attend this meaningful tribute to our fallen heroes.

Move for Your Mind: Mental Wellness in Motion

Friday May 22, 2026, 5:30 PM -7 PM

89-14 Parsons Blvd. Jamaica 11432 4th Fl


Join a community conversation exploring mental wellness through the 5K experience. Moderated by Deputy Borough President Ebony Young, the panel features mental health and wellness experts discussing how movement, safe spaces, and community connection support healing and growth. 

Revolutionary Echoes: Haitian Revolution Panel

Friday May 29, 2026, 6 PM -7:30 PM

King Manor Museum 150-03 Jamaica Ave


Join historians, artists, and cultural thinkers for a panel exploring the Haitian Revolution's lasting impact through art and historic archives. The discussion will examine how the revolution challenged ideas of freedom and power, and how contemporary Haitian artists continue to engage with this legacy.

2026 Jamaica Q 5K: Save the Date

Saturday September 26, 2026, 8 AM

York College 94-20 Guy R Brewer Blvd.


Early Registration extended for the Jamaica Q 5K Walk/Run on Saturday, September 26, 2026 at 8:00 AM at York College. Early bird registration is extended to June 30th at just $20. Lace up your sneakers and join the community for a morning of fitness, fun, and neighborhood pride.

FIFA World Cup Watch Party

June 11 —June 27, 2026

Flushing Meadows Corona Park


The USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center in Flushing Meadows will host the NYNJ World Cup 26 Queens Group Stage HQ from June 11 through June 27, featuring free daily match broadcasts and programming. Join thousands of soccer fans for giant screenings, live entertainment, and World Cup excitement. No stadium ticket required.



Community Resources


DOT AirTrain Customer Experience Survey 

NYC DOT wants to hear from you about your AirTrain experience at Jamaica Station. Share your feedback on station access, parking, wayfinding, and overall customer experience to help shape future improvements. Your input matters. Take the survey below.



Business Resources


2026 NYC Small Business Month Expo

Thursday May 28, 2026, 9 AM-4 PM

60 Pine St. New York, NY


NYC Small Business Services is hosting a free expo with resources, consultations, and workshops to help solve the top challenges small business owners face. Connect with city agencies and partners to get support on funding, growth, talent retention, marketing, legal services, and more.


New Blog Post: Your Guide to Weekend Thrifting in DJQ


Downtown Jamaica is one of the best thrift shopping destinations in Queens, and we've mapped out the top spots worth your time. From vintage finds and dollar bins to cozy cafes where you can sip bubble tea while you browse, check out our new thrift shopping guide on the blog.