The Long Island City Partnership will host the first-ever LIC Springs! block party on Saturday, May 17 to coincide with the LIC Arts Open.
“Together these events show that there is something for everyone is Long Island City, and should draw New Yorkers of all ages to LIC,” Elizabeth Lusskin, president of the partnership, said. “Arts, culture, live performances, activities for kids, and of course, a cornucopia of culinary options and all from local participants.”
LIC Springs!, which is part of the New York City’s Department of Transportation’s Weekend Walks program, is a free, afternoon-long festive block party on Vernon Boulevard from 50th to 46th avenues.
The event will shut down Vernon Boulevard to vehicular traffic, and run from 1 to 6 p.m. with performances, food and activities on every block, including a main stage.
Businesses along the Vernon Boulevard corridor plan to bring food, drinks and retail items out of the sidewalks for tasting and sale.
Community organizations, health and beauty establishments, restaurants, sports and fitness providers and artists will be participating.
Special events and offerings include dancing and music, face painting for children, yoga and martial arts, bootcamp exercise, dining and art and sculpture making and demonstrations.
The event is co-sponsored by TF Cornerstone, which recently developed several buildings on the Long Island City waterfront.
“TF Cornerstone enjoys local events like LIC Springs! … because they’re great opportunities for area residents as well as visitors to the neighborhood to soak up some sun while exploring the many ecletic activities that LIC has to offer,” Sofia Estevez, executive vice president of TF Cornerstone, said.
Those interested in volunteering for LIC Springs! can sign up by emailing [email protected].