JCAL In April: Upcoming Spring Events
This spring, we're presenting an exciting lineup of concerts, exhibits, and more at JCAL! On April 9, we're hosting the next Thursday Night Jazz, headlined by Alfredo Colon. Later in April, we're set to bring a new exhibition and a Riddim Section concert to JCAL.
In May, we're hosting our annual Queens International Children's Festival. RSVP here, and sign up to be a vendor here.
Learn more about our offerings below!
Thursday Night Jazz Presents: Alfredo Colon
April 9, 8pm
153-10 Jamaica Avenue
Don't miss our next installment of Thursday Night Jazz! Alfredo Colon's playing has been described as authoritative and fiery yet mournful and melodic. Drawing on his interest in Dominican folklore and the works of visionary saxophonists Albert Ayler and Ornette Coleman, Colon creates a musical atmosphere that highlights beauty by framing it in disarray.
Press Fast Forward
Exhibition Opening Reception
April 24, 6pm
161-04 Rockaway Blvd
Meet the artists and view spectacular artwork on display! Curated by William Bentley, Press Fast Forward explores the artists' imagination and recollection of their past alongside their vision of the future in an age of technological acceleration. Through framed, two-dimensional works, the exhibit reflects on how technology moves at lightning speed, shifting from analog to digital, from dream to reality, inviting artist to consider its profound impact on communication, creativity and culture.
Riddim Section Presents: Chembo Corniel
April 29, 8pm
153-10 Jamaica Avenue
Join us for an exciting Riddim Section concert! On April 29, at 153-10 Jamaica Avenue, we're presenting the renowned percussionist Wilson “Chembo” Corniel.
Chembo is considered one of the best hard-hitting, versatile percussionists around. He taught percussion to students at the SUNY Purchase Conservatory of Music and at The Drummers Collective. He also leads numerous clinics throughout the United States and around the world, where he brings awareness to others of the rich Afro-Caribbean traditions.
Financial Literacy: Wealth Building
Through Homeownership
April 8, 7pm
Via Zoom
During this financial literacy webinar, we will review wants vs needs when it comes to deciding what your “ideal home” would be. We'll discuss the pros and cons of rent vs buy.
Learn from a local realtor who will help you navigate the home-buying process and help you learn how to find your ideal first home. Lastly, we will discuss the vital roles that home inspectors and attorneys play in ensuring a successful homebuying process.
Calling All Dancers and Choreographers!
Making Moves Dance Festival
Now Open For Submissions
We're pleased to open our application portal for the 17th Annual Making Moves Dance Festival (MMDF2026).
MMDF2026 will present commissions by and performances from up to nine choreographers. MMDF2026 runs from Friday to Sunday, September 18 to 20, 2026. All choreographers, dance artists, and companies working in any genre are encouraged to apply. The submission deadline is Friday, May 15, 2026, at 6 pm.
Queens International Children's Festival
May 16, 12pm
Rufus King Park 150-29 Jamaica Avenue
JCAL's Queens International Children's Festival has returned with free entertainment and activities for the entire family to enjoy. The fun-filled family event brings high-quality arts performances and craft activities to inspire young people and families to enjoy the arts.
Activities will include live music, dance performances, games, a bouncy house, Arts and Crafts, and more!
Queens International Children's Festival is sponsored by Raising Cane's.