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New York BagelFest 2025: A Celebration of Bagel Excellence

The New York BagelFest 2025, held on November 16 at Citi Field, concluded with great success, marking another year of elevating the bagel industry. Organized by the King Arthur Baking Company, this event transformed into a vibrant gathering of more than 2,000 attendees, featuring acclaimed bagel artisans, a myriad of food brands, and media from different corners of the world.

A Global Flavor of Competition

Participants traveled from cities like Madrid, Honolulu, Montreal, Dallas, and more to compete for prestigious accolades within the thriving bagel community. This year's festival not only showcased varied culinary styles but also underscored BagelFest’s growth into an international platform, celebrating creativity and quality in bagel making. Past champions such as PopUp Bagels from Connecticut and Starship Bagel from Dallas have seen their careers flourish as a result, illustrating the event's potential to transform local shops into renowned establishments.

“This festival is more than just a celebration; it's a pivotal moment for many small business owners. Winning here can catapult a bakery into the national spotlight,” said Sam Silverman, the founder of BagelFest. The event featured over 25 exhibitors, each representing a unique take on bagel-making, demonstrating the craft's evolution from a traditional product into a culinary innovation.

Culinary Delights and Workshops

Citi Field's Heineken Diamond Lounge was alive with the aroma of freshly baked bagels, offering guests unlimited tastings from both beloved local bakeries and innovative newcomers. Esteemed establishments like Utopia Bagels and Ess-a-Bagel shared space with exciting new names like Tilly Bagel Shop from Chicago, ensuring a rich diversity of flavors. Notably, Modern Bread and Bagel, a leading gluten-free establishment, emphasized inclusivity within the festival, catering to all tastes.

The day included exhilarating competitions, including the World Bagel Rolling Championship, which drew large crowds as participants aimed for a new record in uniform bagel rolling.

Attendees also engaged in various workshops, extending family programming, featuring intricately designed craft stations and storytelling sessions for children. This year marked the most comprehensive family activities in the festival's history, fostering a welcoming atmosphere for all ages.

Insightful Discussions in the Industry Talks

One of the highlights of the event was the BagelFest Industry Talks, a series of panels focusing on professional development within the bagel community. Leading figures from the baking world gathered to discuss topics including the intricacies of bagel perfection, hospitality in the food industry, and innovative approaches to entrepreneurship. Each session was designed to share knowledge and insights, reinforcing the festival's role as not only a culinary celebration but also a professional hub for the future of bagel-making.

Fostering Community and Encouraging Quality

The 2025 BagelFest awards were announced, celebrating the best in various categories, ensuring recognition for both small and large players in the industry. Categories included Best Bagel, Best Schmear, and Best Showmanship, with a crowning moment for Starship Bagel of Dallas, which took home the Best Bagel award. “This event serves a vital purpose; it connects industry veterans with emerging bakers, creating a community where challenges are shared and innovations flourish,” added Silverman.

Conclusion

The New York BagelFest 2025 not only honored outstanding bagels but also fostered a sense of belonging and camaraderie among bagel makers from near and far. With plans for the future already in the works, the essence of this festival promises to continue nourishing the spirit of the bagel industry, ensuring that the craft remains vibrant and ever-evolving. As the final curtain fell, attendees and participants alike left with a renewed sense of purpose, ready to take the traditions of bagel-making to new heights.

For further details about upcoming festivals and events, visit BagelFest.