Southern Ocean Chamber raises bar for Chowderfest's 29th Anniversary

SHIP BOTTOM, N.J. - Feb. 20, 2017 - PRLog -- After producing an iconic event for almost 30 years, the business organization that created it has reflected on its successes and the challenges that the Chowderfest Committee has faced. "Planning a multi day festival that will satisfy everyone involved as well as attract first time attendees is always a work in progress" states Chowderfest Coordinator Todd Elsasser . Todd has been been involved with the event for over ten years, and has recently been hired by Southern Ocean County Chamber to be the first person to be solely dedicated to the position of all things Chowder. Todd and his wife Jillian manage Panzone's Pizza and Pasta which is one  of the local restaurants that has had a lasting impression on the event. A founding member of Chowderfest, the late Frank Panzone served as chair for 27 years, and oversaw all aspects of the weekend.


This year Chowderfest Weekend will be held on September 30 and October 1, and there will be some defining differences both on and off the field from the previous 28 festivals. First, the Chowderfest Band Line up will go from one act for both days, to multiple local bands including favorite The Pickles. The Creative Seafood Category is here to stay, after rave reviews in 2016 roll out, look for more variety on tap with hard ciders, micro brews and autumn inspired ales. Merchant Mart will be revitalized with additional space to house Make Shift Union's curated Maker's Row with handcrafted merchandise, as well as Southern Ocean Chamber Partner and Member Tents filled to brim with traditional end of season sales items. There will also be some additional surprises for Sunday's Chowder Cook off VIP ticket holders and attendees.The chamber will be adding Chowderfest Retail Program for surrounding businesses who want to have their shop locations, store hours or specials listed on Chowderfest.com, the Official LBI Chowderfest page as well as sent to ticket holders in advance so they are included in weekend plans.

To get involved with 2017 Chowderfest Weekend, visit www.chowderfest.com, contact todd@sochamber.com or call Southern Ocean County Chamber of Commerce at 609 494 7211, stop in at 265 W Ninth Street or follow on Facebook as THE OFFICIAL LBI CHOWDERFEST . For more information on the 103 year regional chamber go to www.visitLBIregion.com , or follow on instagram or FB as Southern Ocean Chamber