#United States #Los Angeles #BagelFest #King Arthur Baking #Jewish Food Lab

BagelFest West Launches in Los Angeles

Los Angeles is gearing up for a culinary treat as BagelFest West makes its debut on April 12, 2026, at the Audrey Irmas Pavilion. Following the overwhelming success of its New York counterpart, this festival, presented by King Arthur Baking Company, promises to be a celebration of the beloved bagel that brings together food artisans, bakers, and enthusiasts from across the country.

The festival aims to redefine the bagel's role in both culinary and cultural contexts. At the helm of this initiative is Sam Silverman, the founder of BagelFest, who remarks on the unprecedented influx of talent in the bagel-making scene. With contributions from award-winning bakers, fine dining chefs, and even former tech entrepreneurs, the bagel's evolution on the West Coast is breaking new ground beyond traditional New York standards.

Festival Overview

Split into two main sessions, BagelFest West will offer a unique experience for both industry professionals and the general public. The festivities will kick off with the BagelFest West Inner Circle Industry Mixer on April 11, attended by key figures in the baking industry. This exclusive mixer will allow business owners, chefs, and media personnel to connect, share ideas, and foster collaborations in an intimate setting.

The main event on April 12 will feature separate sessions for industry insiders and the public. From 10 am to 1 pm, the industry-only segment will include networking opportunities, educational panels, and tastings tailored to chefs and bakers. Topics during the panel discussions will cover everything from perfecting the bagel with the right ingredients to navigating the challenges of running a bagel business.

In the afternoon, beginning at 1 pm, the public is invited to immerse themselves in bagel culture. The event will transform into a vibrant marketplace where families can enjoy live demonstrations, engage with local vendors, and sample a variety of bagel creations. Family-friendly activities will be abundant, ensuring a fun-filled experience for attendees of all ages.

Educational Programming

The festival will feature panels led by industry luminaries, covering vital topics such as:

• - The Key to the Perfect Bagel: An exploration of ingredient selection and fermentation techniques that define high-quality bagels.
• - From Toasted to Thriving: Bagel shop owners will discuss their journeys, detailing the strategic choices and innovations that have propelled their brands.
• - What Is a California Bagel?: This session will delve into the unique ingredients and styles that are shaping the diverse bagel culture in California.
• - The Evolution of the Jewish Deli: Experts will explore how traditional delis are adapting to modern preferences while preserving their cultural essence.

In addition to discussions, the festival will host signature competitions where artisans will compete for titles such as Best Bagel and Best Sandwich. A panel of esteemed judges, including Sherry Yard, a James Beard Award-winning pastry chef, will evaluate entries based on flavor, texture, and creativity, pushing the boundaries of bagel-making excellence.

Fun for Kids

To engage younger attendees, BagelFest West will offer a dedicated kids' area. Activities like baking workshops, bagel-themed arts and crafts, and interactive storytelling sessions will keep children entertained throughout the day. Children’s book author Arianna Brooks will host the Bouncy Bagel Story Time, incorporating various play-based learning experiences into Jewish cultural storytelling.

Toby L. Neiman, the Associate Executive Director at Wilshire Boulevard Temple, emphasizes the importance of such events in fostering creativity and community connections through food, stating, "BagelFest West allows us to showcase the evolution of the bagel as an icon in Jewish food culture."

Get Your Tickets

BagelFest West is set to be a landmark culinary event that combines education, entertainment, and the rich culture surrounding bagels. Tickets are available starting at $65 for adults and $18 for children, with All-Access Tickets priced at $199 that includes additional perks. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit BagelFest's official website.

As Los Angeles welcomes BagelFest West, the city prepares for a delightful exploration of culinary craftsmanship and community celebration centered around one of the most beloved foods in the world—the bagel.