TOMS RIVER – The Toms River Food Fest is returning soon, offering up good eats and tasty treats! The 9th annual event will be held on May 4, 11 a.m.-8 p.m., in downtown Toms River along Washington Street.

Should the weather not cooperate, the rain date is May 5.

The annual food fest will feature a variety of gourmet food trucks, arts and crafts, vendor booths, children’s rides and live entertainment from four great bands. Enjoy everything from barbeque, to seafood, to Mexican or Greek flavors. Satisfy your sweet tooth can with funnel cake, ice cream or cupcakes!

Despite the name, the Toms River Food Fest is not just food. The event will also feature numerous businesses and vendors with items for sale, so you can shop ‘til you drop!

For the kids, there will be free rides and face-painting. DJ’s from Townsquare Media will emcee the event throughout the day, offering up prizes and giveaways at their booth. The live music lineup will include:

11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m.: Tuned Up

2-3:30 p.m.: The DeSilvas

4-5:30 p.m.: The Way Outs

6-8 p.m.: Fish Eyed Blues

“Toms River Food Fest offers something for everyone; live music, gourmet food from great food trucks, free kids rides and shopping. The event grows bigger every year. We are hoping for nice weather and a great turnout,” said Recreation Director Jared Tate.

The Toms River Food Fest is open to the public, but you must pay for your food.

For the adults 21 and over, enjoy a little trip to the beer and wine garden, sponsored by Toms River Fire Company #1.

Note to animal lovers: no pets will be allowed on the festival grounds.

“This event has become one of the most popular events in our town.It draws nearly 25,000 people to Toms River and gets bigger and better every year.I’m looking forward to sampling some delicious dishes and enjoying the entertainment,” said Mayor Thomas F. Kelaher.

Attendees can find free parking behind the Municipal Building, at the Ocean County parking garage at 129 Hooper Avenue, and on the lot at West Water and Irons Streets.