Food Fest Will Return to Toms River This Year

Though planning was slowed after Hurricane Sandy struck, Toms River's Food Fest is on for this year.

"With all of the devastation resulting from Hurricane Sandy, we need to do something fun for the community," said Mayor Thomas Kelaher in a statement. 

The third annual event will be held downtown on Washington Street from 12 to 9 p.m. on Saturday, May 4, with a rain date of May 5. Event committee members met later than usual this year as township employees have been dealing with storm recovery efforts.

"I hope in some small way this will get everyone’s minds off the attention of Sandy," Kelaher said. "This event is just part of our plan to restore Toms River to normal, and based on the inquiries so far, I have a feeling that this year, in particular, will be very busy."

Those food vendors interested in joining the event can apply for an early bird rate by March 31. More information is available through the Toms River-Ocean County Chamber of Commerce online or by calling 732-349-0220.

The Food Festival is the successor to Toms River's Founders Day festival. The format of the event switched to a food fest in 2011.