It’s a Saturday night in Queens. The sun’s setting behind the skyline, and the air fills with the scent of sizzling skewers, fresh dumplings, and sweet churros. Flushing Meadows–Corona Park glows with light and movement — colorful booths line the paths, DJs spin upbeat tracks, and families spread out on picnic blankets, sharing bites from around the world. This isn’t just another food event — it’s the return of the Queens Night Market.
Queens personal injury attorneys celebrate community gatherings that bring people together in safe, joyful ways. And this year, there’s even more reason to join the fun: 2025 marks the Night Market’s 10th anniversary. The beloved open-air event is back, bigger than ever, and ready to serve up culture, cuisine, and connection — all under the stars.
What & When: Market Basics
The Queens Night Market kicks off its 2025 season with sneak preview nights on April 12 and 19, followed by its official opening on May 3. From there, it runs every Saturday night through October 25, except for a short pause during the US Open.
Entry is completely free starting May 3, with tickets only required for the preview weekends. The market takes place just behind the New York Hall of Science in Flushing Meadows–Corona Park — an easily walkable spot nestled in one of the city’s most diverse boroughs. It’s family-friendly, ADA-accessible, and stroller-ready, with plenty of space to roam. ATMs are available on-site, and vendors are set up for maximum crowd comfort.
What’s New in 2025
With a decade of success under its belt, the Night Market is turning heads nationally. It’s been named one of the top food festivals in the country by USA Today and Time Out, and 2025’s season promises even more global flavors.
Newcomers to the vendor list include dishes like Polish zapiekankas, Ecuadorian encebollados, Indonesian rendang, Haitian Chiktay, and Colombian aborrajados. It’s a culinary passport with no plane ticket needed.
What sets the market apart is its commitment to affordability. Vendors agree to cap most items at $5–6 — a rarity at food events. This means visitors can sample more, discover new favorites, and come back week after week without breaking the bank. With over 100 vendors representing nearly 100 countries, every night feels like a world tour in Queens.
Food, Fun & Family Atmosphere
Beyond the incredible eats, the Night Market brings a full evening of entertainment. Each week features cultural performances — live DJs, global dance groups, and even a traveling Shakespeare production (“Much Ado About Nothing”) performed at 7:30 p.m. by the Mobile Unit.
It’s the kind of place where kids can run on the lawn while parents sip bubble tea and listen to live music. Rows of picnic tables, open grass, and a laid-back vibe make it ideal for families and groups.
For those looking for more than food, the market also features handmade crafts, art pieces, and vintage finds. It’s not just about what you eat — it’s about the experience you take home.
Getting There & Around
Transit is your best bet for getting to the market stress-free. Take the 7 train to 111th Street and it’s a short walk south. Buses Q48, Q58, and Q88 also serve the area along the Horace Harding Expressway.
If you’re driving, be prepared: parking is limited and can cost $15 or more. Transit is faster, greener, and generally more enjoyable.
Once on-site, ATMs are easy to find, and while some vendors accept cards or Venmo, cash is always a safe option. The market runs rain or shine — though in case of severe weather on preview nights, postponements are possible for safety reasons.
Why It Matters
Since its launch in 2015, the Queens Night Market has drawn more than 3 million visitors and helped launch over 450 small businesses. That’s a huge impact, especially in a borough that thrives on diversity and small business culture.
It’s more than a night out — it’s a space where Queens’ unmatched cultural variety comes to life. With over 95 nationalities represented, this isn’t just a market — it’s a microcosm of New York.
Its popularity speaks for itself, but so does its mission: to make global culture accessible. Food is kept affordable, performances are open to all, and the atmosphere is always welcoming.
Safety & Legal Perspective
Of course, with large events comes the need to stay safe. Crowds, children, open food areas — accidents can happen. Whether it’s a slip on a wet surface or a fall due to poor lighting, injuries shouldn’t be ignored.
We recommend staying aware of your surroundings, especially when attending with kids or elderly family members. On-site staff and first aid are available for minor incidents, but if something more serious happens, knowing your rights matters.
Conclusion
The Queens Night Market is back for 2025, and it’s more vibrant than ever. With free entry, an amazing lineup of food vendors, live entertainment, and a warm, welcoming community vibe, it’s a must-visit for locals and tourists alike. Whether you’re bringing the kids for a casual dinner or sampling dishes you’ve never tried before, it’s an experience that blends joy, culture, and connection.
At Boland Injury Lawyers, P.C., we hope you enjoy every bite and beat the market has to offer. And if your night takes an unexpected turn due to an injury or unsafe condition, know that you have advocates ready to help. So mark your calendars, bring your appetite, and get ready to explore the world — right here in Queens.