Dates: January 16-17, 2026
Location: The Marquee, Astoria, Queens
If you have never experienced the Zlatne Uste Golden Festival, you are missing one of the most electric cultural experiences New York City has to offer. Now in its 40th year, this festival is a two-day marathon of Balkan music, dance, and celebration. Held at The Marquee in Astoria—the spiritual home of NYC’s Greek and Balkan communities—this event is loud, welcoming, and incredibly fun.
What to Expect
The festival features dozens of brass bands, folk ensembles, and vocal groups performing simultaneously across multiple stages. The music ranges from traditional Serbian brass to experimental fusion. But the real draw is the atmosphere. There is no barrier between performer and audience; spontaneous line dances (kolo) snake through the crowd, and strangers hold hands to dance in complex, joyful rhythms.
Food & Drink
Come hungry. The festival serves authentic Balkan soul food—think burek (flaky pastry filled with meat or cheese), grilled meats, and plenty of Balkan beer and spirits. It is a winter warm-up like no other.
Find more cultural events in our master guide: The Essential NYC Event Calendar: Queens January 2026.
