Ventnor’s Ski Beach was filled with seafood, music and community activity as thousands attended the annual Downbeach Seafood Festival over the weekend.
The two-day festival offered a wide selection of seafood dishes and other bites prepared by area restaurants and food vendors. Attendees sampled local flavors while enjoying views of the bay.
The event also featured craft beer tastings, live entertainment and demonstrations throughout the weekend. Local vendors displayed their products and connected with festivalgoers, adding a shopping component to the food-centered celebration.
An oyster tour gave attendees a way to learn about and experience one of the region’s signature seafood offerings. The festival’s popular chowder cook-off also returned, inviting participants to sample competing recipes while supporting a charitable cause.
Proceeds from the chowder competition benefited the Community FoodBank of New Jersey, which works to address hunger and food insecurity in communities.
The annual festival has become a fall gathering in Ventnor, bringing residents and visitors together to enjoy local food, drinks and entertainment along the waterfront.
The celebration highlighted the area’s seafood offerings while providing a showcase for businesses, vendors and community organizations.
Photos by Steffen Klenk
