Past Events
Browse through our archives of past Bayside Historical Society events, from 2025 back to 2014.
Programs are supported, in part, by public funds from the New York City Department of Cultural Affairs in partnership with the City Council, by Council Members Vickie Paladino, Linda Lee, and the NYC Council Queens Delegation.
Latin Jazz Brunch: A Valentine Passport Concert
February 16, 2025
Time: 12:00pm to 3:00pm
Cost: $40 for BHS members and $45 for non-members
Part of Bayside Historical Society's Author Talk at the Castle Series
BHS continues to celebrate Valentine's Day at The Castle as we turn up the heat with our Latin Jazz Brunch! The elegant, sophisticated, and danceable music of NYC-based Tres Gatos will provide the romantic soundtrack to our delicious Valentine's Day buffet.
We're excited to combine our annual live jazz event with the first Passport Concert Series event of 2025! Based out of New York City, Tres Gatos brings a contemporary energy to their seamless blend of Latin Jazz and Afro-Cuban music. The band features Ariel Robles (from Puerto Rico, Bassist), Ernest Alvarez (Cuba, Percussionist and Vocalist), and Ittetsu Nasuda (Japan, Pianist).
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Author Talk with Richard Melnick: Long Island City in 1776
February 13, 2025
Time: 1:00pm – 3:00pm
Cost: $10.00 for BHS members; $15.00 for non-members
Part of Bayside Historical Society's Author Talk at the Castle Series
In 1775, Boston was at the center of attention, but after April 1776, the Revolutionary War shifted its focus to New York City and the strategically important Long Island, stretching from Brooklyn's terminal moraine high ground to Queens's Hell Gate. That year marked the arrival of revolution on Long Island, particularly in what would become Long Island City. The area's failures, defeats, and subsequent occupation by the British strengthened the resolve and character that later contributed to Patriot victories on distant battlefields across the colonies. The British did not leave western Queens County until November 1783, but the events of 1776 remained significant throughout the seven years of occupation that followed. Join author Richard Melnick at The Castle as he explores the military, political, and cultural history of 1776 in Long Island City.
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Open Sew at the Castle
February 9, 2025
Time: 1:00pm to 3:00pm
Cost: $8 BHS members; $10 non-members
Do you quilt, sew or just love textiles? Join other sewing enthusiasts in an afternoon of creating and socializing. Bring something you are currently working on and enjoy the camaraderie of community sewing! While this is not a sewing class, beginner seamstresses and quilters are most welcome and will find inspiration and guidance. There are a limited number of sewing machines available, but please try to bring your own if you have one. Also, do not feel obligated to sew on a machine — hand work (cross-stitch, embroidery, knitting, crocheting, etc.) is always welcome!
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Second Sunday Castle Tours
February 9, 2025
Time: 1:00pm – 3:00pm
Cost: Free
Bayside Historical Society staff and volunteers are offering guided tours of The Castle and its exhibitions on the second Sunday of each month from 1pm-3pm. Tours are approximately 45 minutes long; there will be two tours offered, the first beginning at 1pm and the second at 2pm. The cost is free, but reservations are required. Reserve your spot in advance for the first tour of 2025 by booking your tickets online.

Author Talk with Rob MacKay: Famous People of Queens
January 21, 2025
Time: 1:00pm – 3:00pm
Cost: $10.00 for BHS members; $15.00 for non-members
Part of Bayside Historical Society's Author Talk at the Castle Series
BHS is pleased to welcome back author Rob MacKay for another fascinating presentation about Queens history. His latest book, Famous People of Queens, is a captivating look at a diverse group of individuals from various neighborhoods and historical eras who have made tremendous contributions to the world. The group includes acclaimed actors, legendary athletes, visionary business people, inspiring religious leaders, pioneering scientists, talented singers, brave war heroes, and acclaimed writers. They all made their homes in Queens for a significant period of time, and they all added interesting twists to the borough's story, showcasing its enduring appeal as a melting pot of talent, creativity, and resilience.

Open Sew at the Castle
January 12, 2025
Time: 1:00pm to 3:00pm
Cost: $8 BHS members; $10 non-members
Do you quilt, sew or just love textiles? Join other sewing enthusiasts in an afternoon of creating and socializing. Bring something you are currently working on and enjoy the camaraderie of community sewing! While this is not a sewing class, beginner seamstresses and quilters are most welcome and will find inspiration and guidance. There are a limited number of sewing machines available, but please try to bring your own if you have one. Also, do not feel obligated to sew on a machine — hand work (cross-stitch, embroidery, knitting, crocheting, etc.) is always welcome!

Open Sew at the Castle
January 12, 2025
Time: 1:00pm to 3:00pm
Cost: $8 BHS members; $10 non-members
Do you quilt, sew or just love textiles? Join other sewing enthusiasts in an afternoon of creating and socializing. Bring something you are currently working on and enjoy the camaraderie of community sewing! While this is not a sewing class, beginner seamstresses and quilters are most welcome and will find inspiration and guidance. There are a limited number of sewing machines available, but please try to bring your own if you have one. Also, do not feel obligated to sew on a machine — hand work (cross-stitch, embroidery, knitting, crocheting, etc.) is always welcome!

Second Sunday Castle Tours
January 12, 2025
Time: 1:00pm – 3:00pm
Cost: Free
Bayside Historical Society staff and volunteers are offering guided tours of The Castle and its exhibitions on the second Sunday of each month from 1pm-3pm. Tours are approximately 45 minutes long; there will be two tours offered, the first beginning at 1pm and the second at 2pm. The cost is free, but reservations are required. Reserve your spot in advance for the first tour of 2025 by booking your tickets online.