Chowderfest returns to Long Beach Island for its 34th installment on September 30 at Bay Village in Beach Haven, NJ. One of LBI’s largest events, Chowderfest draws in thousands each year. It was started in 1989, geared towards extending the tourist season and strengthening the local economy.
This year, two charities will host the event. The Southern Ocean Chamber Association (SOCA) and The Hunger Foundation of Southern Ocean County (HFSOC) have united to sustain this cherished tradition. Their dedicated volunteers have joined forces to rekindle this beloved community event.
SOCA is sponsoring the Bayfront Festival & Vendor Village, held at Bay Village, which is held in conjunction with the Chowderfest. The event is free-to-enter and will feature a lengthy list of vendors and shops. Additionally, there will be beer, wine and food to purchase as well as live music. The first 3,000 attendees who buy a beer on draft get a limited edition mug sponsored by the Surf City Marina. The full list of vendors and additional details can be found here.
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LBI Chowderfest Cook-Off Classic
The Cook-Off is what many attend for. At $35 ($30 if purchased through pre-sale), tickets are a steal considering the amount of chowder you will be able to taste. Dozens of the island’s best chowder-makers will face off in a battle for the ages. Bring your appetite; you’ll need to try them all. Keep in mind that the tasting is BYOS (bring your own spoon).
The 2023 LBI Chowderfest Cook-Off will be presented by The Hunger Foundation of Southern Ocean County.
The proceeds from this endeavor will go towards scholarships and supporting local food banks. It’s the generous contributions from local businesses and sponsors, both regional and local, that make it possible to put forth the Classic Cook-Off and Vendor Village, all in the spirit of raising funds for worthy causes.
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The Hunger Foundation of Southern Ocean County
The HFSOC supports for local food pantries and educates the public on the basic food needs in Southern Ocean County.
Southern Ocean Chamber Association
SOCA plays a vital role in cultivating a robust economic environment within the Southern Ocean County, Long Beach Island Region. It offers valuable resources to bolster the growth of commercial, environmental, and service organizations that form an integral part of the local business community.
The LBI Chowderfest and the Bayfront Festival and Vendor Village will be held at Taylor Ave Parking Lot, Beach Haven, NJ 08008 from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
You can read more about the 2023 LBI Chowderfest, as well as purchase tickets, here.
About the Author/s
Peter Candia is the Food + Drink Editor at New Jersey Digest. A graduate of The Culinary Institute of America, Peter found a passion for writing midway through school and never looked back. He is a former line cook, server and bartender at top-rated restaurants in the tri-state area. In addition to food, Peter enjoys politics, music, sports and anything New Jersey.
