Main Street Energized At 4th Annual Queens Unity Sukkot Concert

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A large crowd filled Main Street on the second night of Chol HaMoed Sukkot for the 4th Annual Queens Unity Sukkot Concert and Grand Simchat

 Beit Hashoeivah. The atmosphere was electric as families from across Queens came together in joyous song, spirited dancing, and heartfelt tefilah, turning the intersection of Main Street and 72nd Drive near Haym Salomon Square into a celebration of Jewish pride and unity.

The evening began with the 12 Pesukim, recited proudly by local children who climbed up to the stage one by one to lead the crowd in words of Torah. Their voices carried through the night air as parents, grandparents, and community members applauded each young participant. A video of the Lubavitcher Rebbe followed, along with the recitation of the Rebbe’s Tehillim with heartfelt prayers for klal Yisrael—especially for the safety and security of our brothers and sisters in Eretz Yisrael. Rabbi Yaakov Horvitz, shliach of Chabad based in Rego Park and event organizer, shared powerful words of encouragement, reminding everyone that as we gather for the fourth year in a row, with everything happening in the world and in Eretz Yisrael, we stand strong in Torah, tefilah, and tzedakah, and that this unity is our strength.

The atmosphere soared when Uri Davidi and keyboardist Ezra Eliyahu of North Woodmere took the stage, instantly igniting the crowd with their trademark energy. Men and boys formed massive dance circles, singing and clapping along in a true Simchat Beit Hashoeivah celebration. Uri’s performance was a highlight of the night, blending timeless Jewish songs with lively modern beats. “This is a night to celebrate together,” he called out to the crowd. “Let’s dance with joy and show the world the strength of our unity!” The music carried throughout the block as people swayed together, joining in one powerful expression of simchah.

The celebration paused for a stirring recitation of Tehillim for the hostages still held in Gaza, at the time, a solemn and powerful reminder of the times we live in. Assembly Member Sam Berger then addressed the crowd, reflecting on this same gathering spot two years earlier in the shadow of October 7. “Two years ago, we stood here mourning,” he said. “Tonight, we stand together with strength and tears of joy. We will not rest until evil is stamped out. As long as I am in office, I will fight for our people.” The crowd responded with emotional song and prayer, uniting hearts and voices for am Yisrael.

This beloved annual celebration was made possible through the partnership of Chabad of Rego Park, Chabad of Flushing, Ohr Avner Chabad, the Queens Jewish Community Council (QJCC), Margaret Tietz Nursing and Rehabilitation Center, Boulevard ALP Assisted Living, JIQ, Queens Shmira, the NYC Department of Cultural Affairs, and the Offices of Council Member James Genaro and Assembly Member Sam Berger. Special thanks were given to the 107th NYPD Precinct, led by Commanding Officer Captain Mo Tsang, and Community Affairs Officers Kevin McCarthy and Tim Gorman for their outstanding support. Recognition was also extended to Shabsie Saphirstein and Coordinator Avraham Pinkhasov. The program was supported, in part, by public funds from the New York City Department of Cultural Affairs in partnership with the City Council.

As the music returned, Main Street once again filled with singing and dancing. Like the children who opened the night with pesukim new youthful faces joined Uri on stage for the celebration, their smiles reflecting the spirit of the evening. “The best thing we can do,” said Uri Davidi, “is to show simchah, to dance together, and to bring light to the world.” The Queens Unity Sukkot Concert wasn’t just another event—it was a powerful statement of achdus, joy, and faith. It reminded everyone that when standing together, the light of simchah can outshine even the darkest of times.

By Shabsie Saphirstein