If you’ve ever wondered what to do with a long weekend in Queens, and wanted something that feels a little different than the usual BBQ in the backyard, then this one’s for you.
I’ve got just the event that’ll feed your appetite, lift your spirits, and make you feel completely at home, even while exploring something new.
It’s loud in the best way. It smells like sizzling sausages and fresh pints. And it’s one of the most joyful traditions Astoria has to offer:
🎉 The Czech & Slovak Festival is back at Bohemian Hall.
And you? You’re invited.
What’s the Festival All About?
This isn’t just another street fair.
It’s a celebration that honors generations of Central European culture—hosted by the Bohemian Citizens’ Benevolent Society of Astoria (or BCBSA for short), and held at one of the oldest beer gardens in New York: the iconic Bohemian Hall, right off 24th Ave.
Think:
Cold Czech beer on draft
Hearty Slovak comfort food
Folk music, traditional dancing, and people of all ages enjoying the sunshine
It’s Queens at its finest: welcoming, warm, and buzzing with life.
When + Where to Go
Saturday & Sunday, May 25–26
12 PM – 9:30 PM (both days)
Bohemian Hall & Beer Garden
29-19 24th Ave., Astoria (just off Astoria Blvd)
Admission is free
Come early. Stay late. Or just swing by for a bite and a beer—you’ll feel like you’ve traveled without leaving Queens.
What to Eat (And Drink!)
This is the kind of food that feels like a warm hug from someone’s grandma.
Here’s a taste of what’s on the menu:
🥟 Pierogies — soft, stuffed, and pure comfort
🥔 Potato pancakes — crispy edges, creamy centers
🍲 Moravian stew — slow-cooked and rich with flavor
🍺 Czech & Slovak beer — yes, the real stuff
Whether you’re a curious foodie or just really love bratwurst and a cold pint, this festival is a must.
Let the Music Pull You In
Live performances will be running all weekend long. Even if you don’t understand the lyrics, you’ll feel the rhythm. That’s kind of the point.
Catch acts like:
Stefanik & Dzadik family singers
Pajtasi folk musicians
BG Express Band
The Pilsner Brass Band
And Joe Ivaska Sr. & Jozef “Dodo” Ivaska
It’s toe-tapping, head-bobbing, get-up-and-dance music—perfect for a long weekend with family or friends.
Ready to Join the Fun?
Both days feature traditional dance classes—no pressure, just fun.
Learn a few steps, laugh through it, and feel the joy of doing something outside your routine. There’ll also be language and culture lessons led by the Czech and Slovak Language Center.
Great for the kids.
Great for the soul.
Come for the Beer. Stay for the Community.
This isn’t just an event, it’s a neighborhood hug.
You’ll see parents dancing with toddlers, teens trying their first pierogi, and elders singing folk songs they grew up with. This festival feels like home, even if you’re not Czech or Slovak. That’s the beauty of Queens.
It's events like these that remind me why I chose to raise my family here.
This Is What Makes Queens... Queens
Every neighborhood has its story.
Astoria just happens to have one with accordion music, cold beer, and the best potato pancakes you’ve ever tasted.
So whether you’ve lived here your whole life or just moved to Queens last month—come out and celebrate what makes this borough so special.
Bring your friends. Bring your appetite. Bring your curiosity.
Want to Know More About Astoria?
If this kind of neighborhood energy speaks to you, and you’re thinking of putting down roots nearby, I’d love to show you around. Let’s talk homes, real estate, and yes… where to get the best pierogies. Let’s chat!
Wishing you good food, good music, and a long weekend full of Queens flavor.
See you at the beer garden. 🍻
Photo Credit: @bohemianbeergarden