Hi there, my delightful readers!

We don’t have a New Yorker of the Week today— submit here if you want to be next. So! Here are 3 random places that you might like if you’re a reader. (Or trying to be one.):

• Lofty Pigeon, a delightful pigeon-themed bookstore in Ditmas Park. It’s so sweet, and the neighborhood kids ADORE it. Every time I’ve been there, there’s been a kiddo happily snuggled in their beanbag chair reading. Stop by Der Pioneer next door afterwards for incredible baked goods. (Pro tip: their Too Good To Go bag is the best I’ve ever had.)
  

• Center For Fiction: The perfect place to meet in the middle with a friend who lives in Brooklyn. Right by Atlantic Ave. There’s a huge selection of books, a cafe, and an area in the back to do some work while surrounded by a giant library. A vibe. (Also a great place to get a kids book for the crunchy liberal family in your life.)
  

• The Ripped Bodice: A smut lover’s dream. I’ve been here a few times, and always leave with something I love. The employee recs are incredible. These folks know their romance! They also have romance book clubs.

Now, onto the ads and the gatherings:

Ugly PJs Cuddle Party

Join us for the Ugly Pajamas Cuddle Party—my last official Cuddle Party® certification event. Expect a friendly, funny, totally non-sexual space where everything is consent-led & you choose your level of contact. We’ll start with simple consent games, then move into relaxed cuddle time with popcorn, conversation, and cozy vibes. Wear your most ridiculous PJs for a chance to win the ugly pajama prize!

Joy List Cyber Monday Deal

It’s cyber Monday, whatever the hell that means, so why not offer y’all a deal!

If you purchase an ad in The Joy List within the next 3 days, you’ll get a free mention on my IG next week. (That’s saving $50, and a free mention to 10K people!)

Just purchase your ad as usual, and then email [email protected] with your IG handle, if applicable.

Gatherings

Double check details before you go, and contact the organizers with questions! The Joy List does not run these events.

Tuesday, December 2: The Art of Retreat: Your Holiday Rest + Recharge

Before the pace of the holidays sweeps you away, join Kayli from The Intentional Muse and Aydan from Bayram Veda for a restorative evening devoted to slowing down and reconnecting with yourself.​Through tea, mindful meditation, and reflective somatic prompts + practices, we’ll explore what it truly means to rest and recharge.

$22, 7:15pm, ASIA Yoga. Info here.

Wednesday, December 3: PubClub: Political Philosophy Discussion

PubClub organizes small group meet-ups at local bars and coffee shops and facilitates casual, curated discussion. It's an intellectual outlet for non-academics. Join PubClub on Wednesday for a low-stakes discussion on the ethics of corporations. Learn something new and join a growing community!

$10, 7:30pm-9:00pm, Hell's Kitchen (location provided after ticket purchase). Info here.

Wednesday, December 3: An Anti-Networking Party

Most networking events are about meeting as many people as possible. This one is the opposite.This is a calm, curated, anti-networking gathering designed to help you walk away with one meaningful connection. Because life really is about who you know.

$27. 7-9:27pm Talea, Williamsburg. Info here.

Thursday, December 4: Sex Trivia Card Release Party

Expect playful vibes, cozy hangs, and a night of games, tarot, prizes, and delightfully curious fun.What to expect:

• Play Sex Trivia with the fresh deck (and snag the dopest holiday gifts)

• Tarot with a flirty, intuitive twist

• Fun vendors to browse and chat with

• Silly games (including a sexy and ridiculous dual pump-action face game!)

• Sexy prizes you’ll actually want

• Yummy drinks and a warm, welcoming vibe

Sugg Donation $20-30 119 Knickerbocker Avenue 9pm. Info here.

Thursday, December 4: H1B - Good for Tech? Bad for Labor?

A combination debate/salon on H1Bs in America. Are H1Bs good for America, or is this a story spun by Big Tech to get cheaper labor? A Rutgers professor and the Executive Director of the American Immigration Council debate. Moderated by Business Insider.

$10, 6:30-9PM, Civic Hall. Info here.

Thursday, December 4: The Spark: A Fresh Take on Dating & Friending

Join us at the The Spark—an interactive event designed to create playful moments among strangers, ignite chemistry, and foster deep connections. Whether you're looking for romance, new homies, or just a fun night of human connection, this experience invites you to engage with others in ways you’ve never done before, which go WELL beyond the usual small talk.

$30 7pm 119 Knickerbocker Avenue. Info here.

Sunday, December 7: No Pants Dance Party

A cheeky, body-positive dance party celebrating movement, freedom, and the joy of ditching your pants for the night. Expect a playful, judgment-free atmosphere filled with movement-based icebreakers, a No-Pants Runway Show with sexy prizes, Body Tarot, live body painting, an Admiration & Worship Corner, and a Decorate-Your-Underwear Bar. Dress code: anything but pants—bring your boldest, silliest, sexiest looks.

$30 6pm 96 Greenwich Street 3rd floor. Info here.

Fierce and free monthly breathwork class

Friday nights were made for this! Through a guided practice, we'll release the weight of what no longer serves, reconnect to our inner power, and tap into the fierce resilience that lives in us. All levels welcome. Fridays, 6:30 pm at Arrive Wellness – 129 West 29th St; 2nd Fl. NYC.

That's it for this edition. Sending hugs.

Stay cozy,

Jillian

Submit your event here.