Sunnyside Block Party to Feature Music, Cookies, and Tree Lighting on Dec. 5

A community block party scheduled for Saturday, Dec. 5, will bring together local musicians, residents, and small businesses on Skillman Avenue between 48th and 49th Streets in Sunnyside. The event, running from 3 to 6 p.m., centers on a cookie potluck, live music, and the lighting of a 20-foot Christmas tree outside the Sunnyside Reform Church.

John Marino, a local resident, organized the gathering as a follow-up to an inaugural neighborhood potluck and jam he hosted in October. He stated that the goal is to "get back into the roots of Christmas" by focusing on community connection rather than consumerism. "People in general are really just consumed with, well, material," Marino said. "We’re all going to come together and we’re doing something cool for the community and for Sunnyside at large."

The event is being supported by multiple local entities. Aubergine Cafe is helping secure the 20-foot tree, while Sanger Hall will provide free apple cider. The Skillman Avenue pub is also hosting a sidewalk holiday market during the party. Rev. Brandan Robertson of Sunnyside Reformed Church has permitted the tree to be erected on the church's front lawn. A local resident who specializes in Christmas tree lighting has tentatively agreed to decorate the tree.

Council Member Julie Won’s office assisted in securing permits and coordinating DSNY clean-up services for the day. Michelle Kogan, a Michelin-star chef known for artisan pies, will serve free hot chocolate. The Screen Door will host a Santa’s workshop that includes free digital photos for children. Several local non-profits and mutual aid groups will set up tables at the event.

Marino is working to coordinate with other holiday events in the neighborhood, including a market at Sunnyside Gardens and one hosted by the Sunnyside Shines Business Improvement District. He plans to create a map so attendees can visit multiple locations on the same day. "I talked to every business and every organization, and I said, ‘well, instead of competing against each other, why don’t we just basically make a map and really kind of galvanize the neighborhood to shop and to just be a member of these events,'" he said.

Attendees are encouraged to bring cookies for the potluck. Containers will be available for people to take baked treats home. Those bringing cookies are asked to label their products for allergens, particularly nuts. "We’d love for people to share their favorite recipes, family traditions, and holiday treats. If you can’t bring cookies, that’s okay too. Everyone is welcome," Marino said in a promotional post.

Music is a key component of the afternoon. A jazz band and a carolist are confirmed performers, and Marino noted high interest in additional caroling. He is also soliciting help from sound or audio specialists to manage a PA system. Other proposed activities include a Christmas sweater mending station, a gently used toy drive, and a Holiday Zine. Residents interested in leading any of these activities are urged to contact Marino directly.

The event is set to take place on the afternoon of Dec. 5. It is a public gathering open to all residents. The schedule includes the tree lighting and musical performances throughout the three-hour window.