This past May, Garden State Fungi enthusiasts joined NOFA NJ for a multi-stop event in Asbury Park. Surrounded by good food, small businesses, and beach vibes, NOFA NJ’s Second Annual MushroomFest took attendees to Over The Moon Art Studio to Kula Urban Farm, and Asbury Park Book Cooperative, where 15+ lectures, presentations, and hands-on workshops were offered.

Workshops and lectures covered a wide range of mushroom topics, from log inoculation to grow blocks, a cooking demonstration with Chef Han Reed, foraging classes, therapeutic fungi, large-scale culinary mushroom production and so much more. 

Following the event, attendees gathered at a local restaurant while others attended a farm-to-table dinner at Kula Urban Farms with Chef Matt Collins. Dozens of mushroom producers were in attendance, including a variety of commercial fungi farms (Noble Mushrooms, Two Rivers Gourmet Mushrooms, Lifecap Farms, Wildspawn Mushrooms, and more.

Big thanks to High Ground Elixirs and The Flying Pig Market for sponsoring MushroomFest 2025!

This workshop was made possible via the USDA Transition to Organic Partnership Program (TOPP) in partnership with Pennsylvania Certified Organic (PCO). Partnering organizations in six regions connect farmers with local mentors and provide education and technical assistance on agronomy, certification, extension, conservation planning, business development, regulations, and marketing. Interested in becoming a Mentor, Mentee, or a project partner through TOPP? Learn more about how you can participate Here.