Photos: Revelers Brave Wind & Cold For 25th Bayfest

Despite gusting winds and skies threatening rain, hundreds of revelers turned out Sunday for the 25th Bayfest on Sheepshead Bay’s waterfront.

The event, organized by the Bay Improvement Group, was scaled down compared to previous years, when the festival featured dozens of performers and drew crowds of more than 100,000. The organizers had trouble finding sponsors this year, and decided to put their limited funds towards three high-quality acts.

They certainly delivered. The three bands — Flight of Sound, The Blue Meanies, and Robert Santa — lit up the main stage with crowd-pleasing covers. The party carried on for more than six hours along Emmons Avenue, between East 28th Street and Bedford Avenue, even when dark clouds unleashed the occasional five-minute drizzle or strong winds scattered some of the chairs.

There was also plenty of other activities, including face painting, kiddie rides, visits from the FDNY, and an appearance by a Danny Zuko impersonator.

If you missed the party, here are some photos:

Sheepshead Bay native Robert Santa, who has toured with Andrew Dice Clay and performed alongside legends like Roy Orbison, Billy Idol, Slash from Guns & Roses, was Bayfest’s closing act.

Danny Zuko impersonator Phil Francavilla, who also does a pretty sweet Tony Manero, got the audience on their feet with the hits from the film Grease.

The Blue Meanies entertained the crowd with favorites from the 60s, 70s and 80s.

The music was a hit.

Kids got a lesson in fire safety from the FDNY. The inside of the trailer was dark and smokey so children could learn to feel along walls with the back of their hands in order to find an exit.

The FDNY also sent one of their boats to say hello.

The kids were rocking out!

He’s smiling on the inside.

Flight of Sound opened up Bayfest and had a little something for almost every generation.

The wind felt great running through your hair!