Let them eat pie!
Going into its ninth year now the annual pie contest "Battle of the Pies" for White Rock Market will take place tomorrow, Saturday October 28.
A favorite for pie lovers and bakers in the area, the event is a once a year deal that is also a good reminder the holidays will soon arrive.
“The goal is to inspire people to bake and share their work,” said Amity Thomas, spokesperson for the “Battle of the Pies” at the White Rock Market.
Organized by Good Local Markets, a 501 (c) (3) nonprofit farmers market where local farmers, ranchers, and artisans sell directly to Dallas neighborhoods, the pie contest usually brings out about 30 bakers to take part.
“Good Local Markets Mission is to strengthen the local food economy and create an awareness of the social, environmental and health benefits of growing and eating local food,” said Thomas. “Our markets are producer only and all of our vendors are from within 150 miles.”
Youth are also encouraged to enter pies in the contest for a chance to win a prize in the Youth Category.
Thomas said this year there are four youth bakers signed up so far, but more are expected.
With about 2000 people attending the market, attendees get to taste the pies and vote for “Best of” in the categories of Fruit, Nut, Chocolate, Cream/Custard, Youth, Most Beautiful and Best Overall. Another caveat, the pie crusts and fillings must be homemade.
Thomas said the favorite pie each year is usually the Texas Pecan Pie.
“Especially if they use local pecans from their backyard,” she added. “We have a lot of peach pies this year as well even though it is no longer peach season.”
The most unusual flavor is a Thanksgiving Dinner pie that was entered this year too.
And what do the winners receive for putting their best pie forward?
“A beautiful ribbon, market tokens, and bragging rights,” Thomas concluded.
Entry fee is $10 per pie and tasting tickets are available at the event for $5.
White Rock Market is located at 9150 Garland Road and the market is open from 8:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
Good Local Markets also holds events at Tyler Street, 922 West 9th Street every Saturday from 8:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. and Paul Quinn College, 3837 Simpson Stuart Road every Thursday from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. All the markets offer the public products from local farmers, ranchers and artisans who sell fruits, vegetables, cheese, meats, hand-crafted foods and other products while serving thousands of residents looking for healthy and locally sourced foods
Additionally, Good Local Markets offer the Lone Star food stamp program, Love Your Farmer volunteer days, educational programs and workshops.