The streets of Bay Ridge came alive Sunday, Sept. 28 as the 52nd Annual Third Avenue Festival transformed 25 blocks from 69th to 94th Street into a lively celebration of food, music and community.
The festival featured more than 180 vendors serving food, drinks and local goods, alongside 15 stages showcasing live entertainment. Performances included local dance schools such as Dimensions in Dance, a martial arts showcase from Hoteikan Dojo, and musical acts like Frankie Marra and His Band, who played nostalgic songs that had festival-goers singing and dancing along.
James Vavas, president of the Merchants of Third Avenue, said this year’s festival saw a record turnout.
“The entire community really came out in full force to support the festival,” he said. “The festival committee did a wonderful job as always.”
Restaurants once again embraced outdoor dining, while community organizations and nonprofits connected with visitors — often under tents providing relief from the unseasonably strong late-September sun.
Local political figures were also among the thousands in attendance. Mayor candidate Curtis Sliwa campaigned along the strip, while other elected officials perused the festival, greeting residents, meeting constituents and indulging in festival classics, from Lucy’s sausage and peppers to handmade arepas and sugary zeppoles.
In a post on social media, Council Member Justin Brannan lauded the turnout.
“The biggest crowd we’ve seen in years,” he wrote on X, giving credit to festival organizer Chip Cafero, the “man behind the magic.” “Huge thanks to Chip and his team for making it all happen behind the scenes year after year.”
Looking ahead, Vavas said the festival’s success reflects a larger vision for the thoroughfare.
“We’re continuing our mission of making Third Avenue a destination for the entire New York City area, not just the Bay Ridge community.”
