BY ED WENDELL | projectwoodhaven@gmail.com
Woodhaven’s big weekend is right around the corner, with a historic block party followed by one of the biggest street fairs in New York City.
It kicks off on Saturday, October 3, at 12 noon, when historic Neir’s Tavern celebrates its 197th anniversary with its annual Block Party. This free community celebration runs from 12 to 6 p.m. along 88th Avenue at 78th Street, at the intersection officially known as Neir’s Tavern Way.
Please take a moment to consider everyone who has passed through Neir’s doors over the past two centuries – the gamblers and jockeys, the farmers and soldiers, the greasers and gangsters – all the way through the vibrant mosaic of locals in 2026 who call Neir’s Tavern their home.
All of them – the residents of today and the spirits of everyone who came before – will come together to celebrate Neir’s rich history and ever-growing legacy. The family-friendly outdoor event will be filled with free refreshments and wonderful activities for everyone in the community. There will be a bouncy castle, a Kids’ Activity Table, and even a steeplechase race!
This year’s Neir’s Ambassador Awards ceremony will take place at 2 p.m. and will be a highlight of the day, featuring several surprise guests and dignitaries. Among the honorees are individuals who have made a significant impact on our community.
This year’s honorees are Donna Salmon (Ambassador of the Year Award), Kristen Guglielmo (Ruschell Boone Legacy Award), Carlos Varon (History & Preservation Award), Richard Fogal (Community Service Award), Rachel Kellner (Small Business Champion Award), and Charlie Vaicels (Advocacy Award).
Special thanks are due to the Neir’s Tavern Ambassadors and the 197th Anniversary Planning Committee, whose months of dedicated work have made this free community celebration possible. It’s no exaggeration to say that, in Neir’s Tavern’s remarkable 197-year history, the past decade has been among its most notable, thanks to the passionate individuals who continue to keep Woodhaven’s historic gathering place alive and thriving.
But perhaps the most meaningful part of the day is simply coming out to connect with friends and neighbors and celebrate the rich history that makes our community so special. And when we raise a glass in honor of this historic occasion, we won’t be toasting alone. We’ll be joined in spirit by two centuries of friends and neighbors who came before us, all saluting this remarkable anniversary together.
The very next day, from 12 to 6 p.m. on Sunday, October 4, the Wonderful Woodhaven Street Fair returns, sponsored by the Woodhaven Business Improvement District (WBID). For many Woodhaven residents, the street fair remains one of their fondest memories and favorite events.
Sausages and peppers, calzones, zeppoles, and funnel cakes – those are the smells many of us grew up with at the annual fair. Beginning in 1980 as a five-block event, the fair quickly expanded to more than half a mile along Jamaica Avenue, from Woodhaven Boulevard to 80th Street, making it one of the largest street fairs in New York City.
And if entertainment is what you’re after, there will be live music at various locations along the street fair route. The main stage, at Forest Parkway and Jamaica Avenue, will feature live music, dance, and presentations.
Both the Neir’s Block Party and the Wonderful Woodhaven Street Fair are popular events that attract people from all over. How fortunate we are to have such wonderful events right here in our own neighborhood – and within walking distance, no less! There’s no need to search for parking when the very best of Woodhaven is right down the block.
So mark your calendars and make plans to join your friends and neighbors for an unforgettable Woodhaven weekend. From celebrating nearly two centuries of history at Neir’s Tavern on Saturday to enjoying the sights, sounds, and flavors of the Wonderful Woodhaven Street Fair on Sunday, there will be something for everyone to enjoy. These events are more than just traditions – they are a celebration of the people, history, and community spirit that make Woodhaven such a special place to call home. We hope to see you there!
