JCAL Celebrates 10 Years of its Annual Queens International Children’s Festival – A Global Celebration for Families
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The Jamaica Center for Arts & Learning (JCAL) is proud to present its signature community event, the 10th Annual Queens International Children’s Festival, on Saturday, May 16, 2026, from 12:00 PM to 4:45 PM at Rufus King Park (150-29 Jamaica Ave, Jamaica, NY 11435). Marking a milestone year and a decade of impact in Southeast Queens, the festival stands as a vibrant reflection of the area’s rich cultural fabric - bringing together families from all backgrounds for a free, daylong celebration of creativity, culture, and shared experiences deeply rooted in the spirit of “The World’s Borough.”
Drawing on the global diversity of its surrounding neighborhoods, this year’s event will bring together music and dance groups representing cultural traditions from communities across Queens. Throughout the day, children and families – local and visitors alike - can engage in interactive arts experiences exploring world cultures through colors, flags, languages, and a variety of creative crafts. A true global celebration for families, the festival will feature a dynamic lineup of performances and interactive experiences designed to engage audiences of all ages.
With DJ Barry Blends serving as both emcee and DJ for the day, highlights include Eric Q’s Family Magic Show blending visual magic with Asian cultural storytelling; the Pan Evolution Steel Orchestra celebrating Caribbean musical traditions; and La Troupe Zetwal, a Haitian folk-dance ensemble honoring ancestral heritage through music and movement.
Families can also enjoy a range of activities including: Art Zone with creative workshops led by JCAL Teaching Artists; face painting and caricature portraits; the “Super YOU!” comic strip and costume-making station; gardening and sustainability workshops, and cultural art-making experiences exploring identity and global traditions. The Game Zone will add to the excitement and will include a giant lawn with tabletop games, mini-golf, a photo booth, and classic treats like popcorn and cotton candy.
*Times, dates, and prices of any activity posted to our calendars are subject to change. Please be sure to click through directly to the organization’s website to verify.