Brooklyn Heights has one deadline this week and a string of free evenings around it. The Brooklyn Heights Association's 2026 Designer Showhouse at 1 Monroe Place closes Sunday, November 1, and the Brooklyn Heights Library at 286 Cadman Plaza West has something on nearly every day before then, from a singing circle to a children's Halloween party.

Through Sunday: the Designer Showhouse at 1 Monroe Place

The association's showhouse has 19 design firms working across six floors of a landmark mansion at 1 Monroe Place, and it has been open since October 2. Its final day is Sunday, November 1. Tickets are sold through the association, and BHA members save $10 per ticket. The association is still asking for volunteers to staff the house through closing; volunteers receive two tickets to return as visitors and a coupon for two caramels at the Brooklyn Women's Exchange.

Thursday: a songshare and a writers' hour

On Thursday, October 29, from 6 to 7:30 p.m., the library's multipurpose room hosts a Community Songshare, a singing circle where participants teach each other short songs by call and response. No musical experience is needed, and anyone who wants to teach a song can bring one; a facilitator helps. The event centers queer voices and is open to everyone.

At the same hour in the library's craft room, the Brooklyn Writers' Exchange meets for an hour of writing together. The format is simple: introductions, a timer set for an hour of writing on whatever you are working on, and then optional socializing at 7 p.m. Nobody reads anyone else's work. It meets every Thursday.

Friday: Halloween Boo Bash

Children get a Halloween party at the library on Friday, October 30, from 3:30 to 4:30 p.m., with crafts, games and music. Costumes are welcome but not required.

Saturday: a workout and a book chat

On Saturday, October 31, Shape Up NYC and NYC Parks run a free Bodyweight Burn circuit class at the library from 10:30 to 11:15 a.m., led by Jasmine Sturgis. It combines cardio, strength and core work and welcomes every fitness level; NYC Parks asks participants to register on its event page.

Also at 10:30 a.m., in the library's Orange Meeting Room, the monthly Book Chat runs until noon. It works like a book club with no assigned book: bring something you read recently and hear what everyone else is reading.

How to go

The library is at 286 Cadman Plaza West, and 1 Monroe Place is a short walk away. The 2 and 3 stop at Clark Street, the A and C at High Street and the R at Court Street. Library events are free. Times can change, so check the Brooklyn Public Library calendar and the Brooklyn Heights Association site before going.

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