Several train stations in Astoria will close for upgrades this summer, which will leave residents scrambling to find a ride to the city.
But businesses are aiming to entice people to stay home and shop local by providing discounts with the “No Trains, Shop Local” promotion. From Aug. 11 to Aug. 13, residents will get 10 percent off of all purchases at 12 mom-and-pop shops when they show their MetroCard. Those who purchase an item for $25 or more and show their receipt at Q.E.D., a comedy and event space, will get a free ticket for themselves and a guest.
You can pick up a book or two from The Astoria Bookshop (31-29 31st St.) or pick up a unique gift at The Brass Owl (36-19 Ditmars Blvd.), which sells shoes, jewelry and all kinds of accessories.
If you make your own clothes, visit Broadway Silk at 35-11 Broadway, which has been family owned since the 1930s. Sip on coffee while you shop for your pet at Château le Woof, a pet market and cafe at 30-02 14th St.
Vinyl lovers can visit HiFi Records & Cafe at 23-19 Steinway St. for discounts or purchase a gift for a loved one at Inside Astoria at 28-07 Ditmars Blvd.
Handmade candles, lotions and soaps made with sustainable and organic ingredients can be found at Lavender Label, located at 29-03 23rd Ave. Lockwood (32-15 33rd St.), which serves all kinds of trinkets, and its sister store Lockwood Style (33-02 Broadway), which offers women’s clothes, will also offer discounts.
You can also purchase clothes at a discount at LoveDay 31 at 33-06 31st Ave. or The Stonework at 37-06 Ditmars Blvd. Finally, visit Petals & Roots, a family-owned flower shop at 31-27 31st St.
Stores may offer additional promotions as the dates get closer. Visit the Facebook page for the event for more information.
