Southern Ocean County Chamber Of Commerce Stretches Out Summer

Labor Day used to spell the end of summer on Long Beach island, with empty beaches, flashing traffic lights and little to do.

Not anymore.

The Southern Ocean County Chamber of Commerce is touting a number of events scheduled in September and into October.

Barnegat’s annual Pirate’s Day kicks off on Sept. 7, when rowdy buccaneers invade the historic district downtown. The free, event features concerts, vendors and activities.

The First Annual Pumpers & Pistons event to support the Ship Bottom Fire Company is slated for Sept. 27, with a car show, live music and a barbecue. The event will be held at the Ship Bottom boat ramp.

The 60th Annual LBI Surf Fishing Classic will be held on Oct. 6, with anniversary prizes for bluefish and striped bass caught between now and Nov. 30. Go to lbift.com for details on where to register and weigh in, and find out about the October 11 Free Surf Fishing Clinic beginning at Southern Ocean Chamber of Commerce Visitor Center with coffee, bagels and giveaways.

And then there’s the biggie. The 26th Annual Chowderfest Weekend will take place October 4 and 5, with Jersey Shore favorite restaurants competing for the crowd s vote and serving up unlimited red and white chowder.

Chowderfest features end of season bargains, live entertainment and gourmet food tent set up during the free Merchant Mart from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 4. The Chowder Cook Off Classic on October 5 beginning at 10 a.m. for VIP ticket holders and 11 a.m. for general admission for Chowderfest. This year’s theme Clamiccon, an ode to the popular cultural event Comiccon.

For more details on these and other events during the fall, including live performances, such as Oct. 4 Saturday night concert with legendary Southside Johnny performing at the Surflight Theatre, Columbus Day Weekend 18 Mile Run, and family friendly festivals go to www.visitLBIregion.com or stop by the Southern Ocean Chamber Visitor Center at 265 W Ninth St Ship Bottom 609 494 7211.