December 2025 - Part 2

Thur Dec 11th at 9:30pm
Joe’s Pub, East Village

Where psychedelic rock meets West Asian rhythms, Mehrnam Rastegari’s debut album, Dislocated Pulse, comes alive on stage. Composer, bandleader, Kamancheh player, and singer, Rastegari presents these songs at Joe’s Pub for a night celebrating music, unity, and the energy of life.

Fri Dec 12th at 8:30pm
The Tank, Midtown

This program unites six SWANA artists whose performances draw on myth, folklore, and spiritual figures to respond to the struggles of today. From tributes to Nika Shakarami and the Iranian uprising, to reimaginings of Mullah Nasruddin, ancestral spirit beings, the goddess Anahita, and a memorial to Palestinian children, each work channels myth and memory to confront contemporary injustice.

Sat Dec 13th, 3-6pm
Atelier Dalal, Greenpoint

Led by BK-based sculptor + furniture designer Ian Scott. the 3-hour course will begin with a survey of the art form through history, paying particular attention to Alexander Calder and other 20th-century artists who popularized the medium. All necessary materials, but students are encouraged to bring small items from their own life too.

Dec 13th & 14th at 8:30pm
City Winery, Meatpacking

I’m such a huge fan! Sammy is a sharp, witty Arab American writer and comedian, and a former math teacher so expect some math jokes. He’s a powerhouse of content (definitely worth a follow), always on tour, and consistently delivers an incredible show. Watching him perform is a blast, I soooo soooo highly recommend seeing him!

Dec 13th & 14th
Storefront Of Art, Nolita

Makan is an independent publishing house dedicated to amplifying voices and visual narratives from the Global South and beyond and they will be present throughout the weekend introducing new work and new books. Go say hi!

Sat Dec 13th, 10am-6pm
Flatiron

A vibrant pop-up bringing more than 40 SWANA and local vendors. Hosted in a stunning 7,000 sq ft Flatiron gallery, the market brings together unique holiday gifts, handcrafted art and decor, delicious Persian pastries and treats, and Iranian food, beer, and vodka, all available to take home. You’ll also find beautiful Yalda inspired displays, live music, festive vibes, and an atmosphere that’s warm, welcoming, and full of discovery.

Sat Dec 13th, 3-7pm
BK ArtHaus, Williamsburg

Yalla! Souk has been centering SWANA, Women owned small businesses and BIPOC artists and designers since 2018, one of the first marketplaces to feature the special treasures our diverse communities have to offer, to encourage shopping local and supporting one another

Sun Dec 14th, 2-6pm
Cafe Erzulie, Bushwick

Join Haza for a winter souk with food, chai, coffee, clothing, and so much more. Soundtrack by Haza resident DJs Carmen Sandiego and Myyuh. Come ready to support local SWANA businesses this holiday season.

Sun Dec 14th from 2pm
Main Drag, Williamsburg

An afternoon benefitting MightyMutts & Ollie’s Place, a New York animal rescue organization with a suite of concerts starting with Everstill band and Sara Aridi.

Through Dec 14th
Pershing Square Signature center, Midtown

Spanning the 1920s and 2020s, this sharp, funny play follows an Armenian American family navigating identity, belonging, and the search for recognition, from legal status to online fame. A blend of historical drama and contemporary satire, it’s part of Second Stage’s new season championing bold American voices

Sun Dec 14th, 4-7pm
Atelier Dalal, Greenpoint

The best gifts are handmade: craft your own charms, finished with decorative paracord knots and custom beads.

Mon Dec 15th, 6-9pm
Sofreh Cafem

An evening of Persian-Latin-infused rhythms from Brooklyn-based artists Neena Roe and Seb Zel. Neena is the daughter of Iranian immigrants who grew up in Detroit and whose time in Latin America has heavily influenced her music.

Dec 17-25th
Film Forum, West Village

The Venice Silver Lion–winning film blends real recordings and reenactments to recount the death of Hind Rajab and the rescuers who tried to reach her (1-3pm) A discussion with director Kaouther Ben Hania will follow, streamed on UN Web TV (3-5pm). Such an important movie!

Dec 17th at 8pm
Main Drag, Williamsburg

The night will start with Sami Salloum is a Syrian vocalist rooted in tarab and Arabic classics, now a rising voice in New York. Habibi Gün mixes classic Arab composers with Western influences for a rich, trance-like sound.
Scree creates lush, genre-blending instrumentals shaped by global inspirations.

Wed Dec 17th at 7:30pm
The broadway, Bushwick

Breaking Sound is a project showcasing emerging talent allover the world in cool spots. For this cobcert they will be presenting 4 new artists: Suzan Sadek, Middle Monster, Meher and Shaney Morant.

Wed Dec 17th at 8pm
Ciao Ciao, Williamsburg

We are celebrating Shabe Yalda, the longest night of the year. Expect Persian tradition, community vibes, and a little old school disco Tehran energy. Note that Lil Buddy will be on set and this guy always brings the energy!

Thur Dec 18th at 8:30pm
Ciao Ciao, Williamsburg

Step into a Yalda that actually feels like Yalda. A night built for people, music, and genuine energy. Dj Lil Buddy will be spinning modern Middle Eastern sets, and the bar will be running custom mocktails and cocktails inspired by the flavors we grew up with. Bring your friends, Menna or not, and enjoy the sips, sights, and sounds of home. All are welcome!