Iconic Beach Haven Chowderfest Coming Up In Early October

Chowda time!

Summer might be almost over, but visitors to Long Beach Island still have Chowderfest to look forward to in early October.

The annual Chowderfest weekend in Beach Haven will kick off with a free Merchant Mart on Oct. 3, followed by the red and white chowder cookoff on Sunday, Oct. 4, according to the Southern Ocean Chamber of Commerce.

Local vendors will have some good deals under the big tents at the Merchant Mart, including holiday gifts, home decor, fashion, cosmetics,specialty products and Chowderfest merchandise, said Chamber of Commerce spokesperson Lori Pepenella.

The event will also feature live music, children’s entertainment, beer on tap, cider wagons and a gourmet food court, she said.

The judging of the red and white chowders - event officials don’t even call it Manhattan or New England clam chowder - takes place on Sunday. This year there is also a creative seafood category.

This year’s competitors include:

The Black Whale Fish House, Lefty’s Tavern, Stockton Seaview, Shore Fire Grill, Southern Smoke, returning Red Champion Steafano’s Restaurant, and returning White Champion Howard’s Restaurant will go up against Chicken or the Egg, Country Kettle Chowda, TGIFriday’s Manahawkin, Buckalew’s Restaurant and Tavern, Sea Oaks Country Club, Pinzimino Trattoria, The Old Causeway Steak & Oyster House and Wally’s.

First time entries in the Creative Class is Biggy’s Beach Grill, Cuisine on the Green and the Blue Water Cafe. Savor unlimited chowder from local restaurants and vote for your favorite.

General admission tickets are $25. Children’s tickets (ages 4 to 12) are $10. VIP tickets are $55, which includes a T-Shirt and early admission to the cookoff.

Free parking is available throughout Beach Haven, and a free Sunday shuttle for additional parking. For tickets or more information go to www.chowderfest.com or contact Southern Ocean Chamber directly at 609 494 7211.

Photo credit: Patricia A. Miller