Sunnyside residents to light 20-foot tree at Dec. 5 street party
John Marino is organizing a cookie exchange and music event on Skillman Avenue to bring local businesses and mutual aid groups together.
By Tomas Gonzalez ·
Sunnyside residents will close off Skillman Avenue between 48th and 49th Streets on Saturday, Dec. 5, for a community event focused on food, music, and a shared holiday tradition. The gathering runs from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. and centers on the lighting of a 20-foot Christmas tree.
John Marino, who hosted a similar neighborhood potluck in October, is organizing the December event. He said the goal is to move away from material consumption and focus on local connection. "People in general are really just consumed with, well, material. So it would be good to give back to certain organizations, certain mutual aid groups," Marino said. "We're all going to come together and we're doing something cool for the community and for Sunnyside at large."
Local businesses are providing key resources for the afternoon. Aubergine Cafe is helping secure the 20-foot tree, while Sanger Hall will supply free apple cider. A pub on Skillman Avenue is also hosting a sidewalk holiday market during the block party. Rev. Brandan Robertson of Sunnyside Reformed Church has granted permission to place the tree on the church's front lawn.
Other participants include the Screen Door, which will host a Santa workshop with free digital photos for children. Michelle Kogan, a Michelin-starred chef known for artisan pies, will serve free hot chocolate. Council Member Julie Won's office helped Marino obtain the necessary permit and arranged for Department of Sanitation and New York (DSNY) cleanup.
Marino is coordinating with other local organizers to reduce competition between holiday events. He is working to create a map of the various markets and parties happening in Sunnyside that 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 a potluck exchange. Organizers will provide containers for guests to take baked goods home. Those bringing treats are asked to label their items 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 wrote in a post promoting the event.
A jazz band and a caroling group are confirmed to perform. Marino said he has received strong interest from additional carolers. He is also seeking a sound or audio specialist to assist with a public address system. Ideas for a sweater mending station, a toy drive, and a holiday zine are being considered, and volunteers are invited to contact Marino to lead specific activities.
