#United States #New York #BagelFest #King Arthur

BagelFest 2025 Returns to Citi Field

The excitement is building for the 2025 New York BagelFest, which will take place at the iconic Citi Field on November 16. Hosted by the renowned King Arthur Baking Company, this event promises to be more than just a culinary festival; it’s a celebratory gathering of bagel enthusiasts from around the globe. With over 2,000 attendees, this festival showcases the best of the best, featuring 25 premier bagel makers who will compete for the title of the best bagel in the world. The lineup is a testament to the growing international love for bagels, with competitors flying in from cities as diverse as Madrid, Honolulu, Montreal, and various U.S. cities like Dallas, New Orleans, and of course, New York City—the epicenter of bagel culture.

A Stage for Global Talent

BagelFest has evolved into a launching pad for culinary talent. Winning prestigious awards at the festival has propelled many competitors to greater heights in their careers. For instance, PopUp Bagels from Connecticut, a two-time winner, has ambitious plans to expand to 300 locations by 2029, while Starship Bagel from Dallas made history as the first bagel shop to be nominated for the James Beard Award for Outstanding Bakery. Sam Silverman, a prominent voice in the industry, describes BagelFest as a global hub for bagel culture, saying, "It's where the best bakers, brands, and fans come together to create unparalleled experiences."

Unlimited Tastings and Flavorful Offerings

Attendees can look forward to unlimited tastings from the 25 featured shops, each selected for their unique contributions to bagel-making. The local legends such as Utopia Bagels and Ess-a-Bagel will be in the spotlight alongside innovative gems like Town Bagel from Long Island and Fantzye Bagels from Kingston. The event also spotlights international flavors with Montreal’s St-Viateur Bagel, Spanish-inspired Si Si Bagels from Madrid, and the tropical twist of Tali's Bagels in Honolulu. Notably, the participation of Modern Bread Bagel, a leading gluten-free bakery, ensures inclusivity for attendees with dietary restrictions.

Complementing the bagels, a variety of renowned food brands will enhance the culinary experience. Attendees can indulge in products from Acme Smoked Fish, sip on nostalgic drinks from the Brooklyn Seltzer Museum, and enjoy sweet and spicy additions from Mike’s Hot Honey and Peter Pan Donut.

Competitive Spirit and Awards

The competitive nature of BagelFest is amplified in 2025, featuring multiple award categories that encourage both audience and expert engagement. Guests have the opportunity to vote for the People’s Choice Award, while a panel of judges determines the winners of coveted honors such as Best Bagel, Best Sandwich, and Most Creative. This year introduces more specific awards, including Best New York Style Bagel and Best Montreal Style Bagel, reflecting the evolving diversity within bagel-making traditions.

Returning champions like Utopia Bagels are eager to defend their titles against a talented field, stirring anticipation among attendees. The weekend's excitement peaks with the World Bagel Rolling Championship, where skilled bakers compete for the record of the most hand-rolled bagels in one minute.

Educational Opportunities and Community Engagement

BagelFest is not solely focused on delicious tastings; it also serves as an educational hub. Throughout the weekend, various professional programming will be available, including workshops and networking events tailored for bakers, brands, and media representatives. A standout addition for 2025 is the BagelFest Growth Lab, designed to help newcomers in the bagel market present their creations to established industry leaders, providing mentorship and essential feedback.

To enhance accessibility and attract enthusiasts far and wide, the festival has initiated a national sweepstakes in partnership with King Arthur. One lucky winner will receive a trip to NYC, valued at $3,200, covering all expenses related to attending BagelFest.

BagelFest cultivates a family-friendly atmosphere with interactive stations and programming designed for attendees of all ages, making it a perfect outing for families. Special perks for All-Access ticket holders include exclusive swag and guided tours of Citi Field, further enriching the experience.

With its vibrant melding of gastronomy, culture, competition, and community, BagelFest 2025 promises to be an unforgettable experience. Mark your calendars for November 16, 2025, from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM at Citi Field’s Heineken Diamond Lounge. Tickets start at $69 and can be purchased via the official website www.bagelfest.com. Join us for a day where tradition meets innovation, celebrating one of the world’s greatest foods in the city that brought them to life.