The 32nd Annual Woodhaven Festival turned Jamaica Avenue into one of the hottest places to be in Queens on Sunday, with different types of live music, activities for kids, food from across the globe, and vendors selling everything anyone could want.

Marianne Blenkinsopp has been a resident of Woodhaven for 32 years, and has attended every single festival. When asked what she thought of the diversity that the festival brings, Blenkisopp said, “This is Woodhaven, we are a mix.”

She said that the festival is a vital part of Woodhaven. “It keeps the community interested,” she said. “It keeps the neighborhood alive.”

The festival was indeed alive on Sunday. Blenkinsopp said that with the rides for children and all the vendors and food for adults, she can see why the festival stays crowded all day. The good weather didn't hurt either, she said.

Ed Wendell, president of the Woodhaven Residents Block Association, was selling t-shirts and books about the history of Woodhaven. The goal wasn't just making a few dollars for the nonprofit civic group, though, it was also letting the community know that the group is here to help.

During the festival Wendell said that two people approached him with issues regarding the community. He said the annual festival is an opportunity for small business to do a little extra businesses, as well as community members to become aware of organizations that can help them with neighborhood issues.

Wendell said he even saw a former resident of Woodhaven who made the trip from Long Island just for the event.

Traditions like these are an important part of the community,” he said.