Thousands have participated in the month-long pivot of the iconic Chowderfest, and in the final stretch this week, the race to taste is heating up.

With no onsite festival this year due to COVID-19 restrictions, the Southern Ocean County Chamber of Commerce changed Chowderfest to ChowderMonth for this 32nd annual celebration. It’s still the “Chowder Capital of New Jersey,” and there will be plenty to come before the champion is announced on Sunday, Oct.