“Summer Gospel Musical Festival” Returns to Waterfront in South Toms River

A free family-oriented event showcasing local artists is being held again this year in South Toms River on the waterfront off Route 166 at Matthis Plaza. 

Organizers of the "Summer Gospel Music Festival" said they were surprised by the success of the last year's first-time event and received so much positive feedback that they're doing it again this Saturday, Aug. 15, from 2 to 6 p.m..

Sarina Duvall, a planning committee member, credited the support of area churches and businesses for providing donations to make the free event possible.

"Local businesses, especially this year more so, have been sending in donations for us to do raffles and giveaways and stuff like that, and then we also have the support mainly of our local church bodies," said Duvall.

Duvall is encouraging families to come with their blankets and beach chairs and support the community and local, aspiring music artists, herself among them.

"We have 'Waiting for the Flood,' which is actually a well-known Christian band in the area. They've done several other venues. We're really excited to have them with us this year," Duvall said.

The event also will feature poetry readings, a comedian, as well as food and merchandise vendors, according to Duvall.