Toms River Food Festival: Food, Fun And Games

TOMS RIVER, NJ -- The Toms River Food Festival is back this spring, bigger and better than ever! The sixcth annual event will be held Saturday, May 14, from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. in downtown Toms River on Washington Street. Rain date is Sunday, May 15.

Toms River Food Fest features the best local food trucks, arts, crafts and vendor booths, children’s rides and live entertainment from four great bands. The children’s rides are provided as a free attraction, sponsored by Pine Belt Automotive.

• Shorty Long & the Jersey Horns (11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m.)
• Southrail (2-3:30 p.m.)
• Strictly 60’s (4-5:30 p.m.)
• Nash East (6-8 p.m.)

The event will also feature DJs from Greater Media, 100.1 WJRZ and 95.9 WRAT, who will be emcees on the stage throughout the day. They will have prizes and giveaways at their booth.

Beyond food, guests can also go shopping as the festival includes a number of businesses and vendors with merchandise for sale. For the younger crowd, there will be kid-friendly rides, a rock climbing wall and face-painting.

Food this year includes barbeque, seafood, sausage and peppers, gyros, empanadas, cheesesteaks and more. Those with a sweet tooth can snack on funnel cake, fried Oreos and cupcakes.

Admission is free and open to the public. Just pay as you eat! The 21 and over crowd is invited to the beer and wine garden, sponsored by Toms River Fire Company 1. As we want to provide a fun, safe, family friendly environment, we will not permit pets into the festival grounds. Pursuant to NJAC 8:24, live animals shall not be permitted on the premises of a retail food establishment. Properly authorized service animals are allowed.

“If you’re looking for a perfect blend of live music, food, kid’s activities and shopping," Recreation Director Jared Tate said. "Toms River Food Fest offers something for everyone. We are hoping for beautiful weather and a great turnout!”