Though restrictions have been lifted, there are still many concerns about planning and executing a capacity festival this fall.  The Southern Ocean County Chamber of Commerce has been working closely with the Borough of Beach Haven, as well as local businesses to bring an expanded version of ChowderMonth back to the region. Fully aware that this 33 year event relies on volunteer support, the organizers recognize the strain placed on the business and non profit community over the past year and a half.  This year, the spirit of Chowderfest will once again steer chowder purchasing with participating restaurants to keep dollars flowing directly to them and a chance to earn the vote online. 2021 will have a champion in the Red, White and Creative Categories.

The popularity of last year’s online voting engaged thousands to eat in or take out throughout the month bringing more people into the region and allowing more time to enjoy tasting. The success has led to an additional investment creating easy to use, web based Traveling Taster Technology. This service will be available at no cost for voters to check in with restaurants, vote and even qualify for vintage Chowdergear prizes that can be claimed at the planned 2 day free festival happening at Beach Haven’s Taylor Avenue Bayfront October 2 & 3.

This festival will be free with no tickets needed to attend and will not have chowder on the grounds to sample. It will feature a juried vendor village, live music line up, brews on tap and food for purchase, and will be where the 2021 chowder champions will be announced.

The chamber thanks Fantasy Island Amusement Park, the Sandpaper/Beachcomber, Ritchie & Page, Health Village Imaging and New Jersey Division of Travel and Tourism for helping to kick off the sponsorship launch. For more information please go to https://chowderfest.com/ or call chamber office at 609 494 7211.