Queens’ newest weekend destination LIC Flea & Food launches

BY LUKE TABET

Foodies, artists, vendors and shoppers turned out on Saturday morning, June 15 for the grand opening of the LIC Flea & Food market.

A crowd gathered as owner Joshua Schneps cut the ribbon for the front gates while members of the Long Island City High School marching band played.

“I’m excited to have all these great vendors,” said Schneps. “We can draw people to the neighborhood and get them spending money locally. It’s definitely an exciting day.”

As they entered the market, which overlooks the Midtown Manhattan skyline, hundreds of shoppers walked through the rows of vendors offering tasty treats, vintage clothing, colorful paintings, hand-made crafts, jewelry and more.

People lined up to get a flavored cone from the Ice Riders. Owners Chelsea Barker and Jet Thomason sat on their bicycle-powered contraption that grinds the ice.

“We’ve done other street fairs and private parties,” they said. “We’re definitely excited to be here.”

SEE MORE PHOTOS FROM LIC FLEA & FOOD OPENING WEEKEND

Down a little further, Bill’s Balls Artisan Meatballs was drawing people in. Bill Morris and wife Daniela DelGiorno are in their first year of business. They plan on coming back to the LIC Flea & Food every weekend.

“We have lots of different flavors in mind,” said Morris. “Every weekend we’re going to have a flavor of the week.”

Over the summer, shoppers will see buffalo, Swedish, Texas chili and traditional Italian meatballs, as well as the “Flushing,” a pork dumpling flavor.

Vendors and residents were pleased at the neighborhood’s newest weekend attraction.

“This area is up and coming,” said Nick Horman, owner of Horman’s Best Pickles, a staple at many farmers’ markets and street fairs in the city. “I have a lot of hope for this market. People are hungry for new things.”

Whether you are in the market for delicious delicacies or want to peruse aisles of trinkets, clothes and art, you’ll find what you’re looking for at LIC Flea & Food from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. every weekend all summer long. For more information, visit www.licflea.com.