If you have a sweet tooth, Dessert Wars is one event you won’t want to miss. It’s every child’s dream and every dentist’s worst nightmare.
So, what’s the story behind this sugar-filled festival?
Today, we’ll bring you all the details about this sweet soiree.
Let’s dive in!
What is Dessert Wars Atlanta?
On October 7, 2023, the most extensive dessert festival in America will go down in the Peach State. The famous Dessert Wars food extravaganza will occur at the Cobb Galleria Centre in Atlanta, Georgia.
The competition pits 50 local vendors against one another. Attendees purchase sample tickets and exchange them for treats. After tasting the deliciousness created by the participants, attendees cast their votes for their favorite.
Judges are artists, chefs, and culinary influencers you might have seen a time or two on Food Network and Netflix. They calculate the votes and then hand out awards at the end of the competition.
Participants vie to be in the top three for the Judge’s Champion or People’s Choice Awards. The top spots in each category earn a place in the National Championship. Whether it’s cookies, cakes, or ice creams, it’s bound to be a sweet event.
Where Is Dessert Wars Held?
Dessert Wars has taken place since 2015. This year, battles will commence in eight different including Atlanta, Las Vegas, Philly, Palm Beach, Charlotte, Miami, Tampa, and Washington, DC. No matter which location you visit, you’re bound to leave with a sugar high.
These exciting events begin in March and run throughout the year. Atlanta hosts the final battle in October. However, that’s not the end of the festival. A select few from each site will have the opportunity to compete at the National Championship, also in Atlanta. It’s the best of the best. Winners get bragging rights and a share of $20,000.
When Is the Dessert Wars National Championship?
The Dessert Wars National Championship will return to Cobb Galleria Center on December 2, 2023. The vendors at this event will be the top three in each category from the various competitions throughout the year. With eight festivals taking place nationwide, that leaves 48 of the best treat-making professionals in the country to duke it out.
So far, some of the victors are Shirley’s Fried Ice Cream out of Philadelphia, South Mountain Creamery from Washington, DC, Super Churros of Palm Beach, and Yonuts from Las Vegas. We’re excited to see how the remaining representatives stack up!
You’ve gotta bring treats on the road! Here are the 5 Best Campfire Dessert Recipes.
Other Fun Things To Do Near Dessert Wars Atlanta
When you visit the festival, you’ll probably need some ways to burn off all that excess sugar. Here are a few great options to consider before or after this delicious event.
Explore the Atlanta Botanical Garden
The Atlanta Botanical Garden was established in 1976 and sits in the heart of Atlanta. Its 30 acres contain more than 3,000 plant species. You’ll find everything from roses and herbs to conifers and beyond. Take the time to walk through the Fuqua Orchid Center and the Children’s Garden.
The garden is an opportunity for all ages to learn and explore. Be sure to check their calendar for special events and their list of classes for educational lessons and lectures. Even if you don’t have a green thumb, this is an excellent opportunity to branch out and experience something new.
Check Out Ponce City Market
Ponce City Market sits inside the former Sears & Roebuck building that began operating in the 1860s. It now offers retail, office space, and various dining options. Adults and kids alike can find something delicious to eat and an activity to entertain them.
Make your way up to the roof and discover Skyline Park. It has the look and feel of a carnival. Try your luck at one of the boardwalk-style games or compete against your friends on the 18-hole mini golf course.
If you need more than food and fun to win you over, the view of the skyline is breathtaking. Grab a bite to eat and watch the area come to life as the sun sets for the day.
Visit the Atlanta History Center
The Atlanta History Center is another incredible spot to visit near Dessert Wars. The 33-acre property allows guests to see and explore notable houses and gardens while learning about this impressive city’s past. You can find exhibits detailing historical events or visit the museum with more than five million artifacts.
One of the most prominent spots in the center is the Swan House. It’s a fully restored 1928 mansion. The home captures life for the upper class during the late 1920s and early 1930s. In contrast, the Smith Family Farm shows what rural life was like. As you might expect, there are striking differences between the two.
See more of the city by exploring 5 Famous Movie Sites You Can Visit in Atlanta, Georgia.
Best Places To Stay Near Dessert Wars Atlanta
If you want to make the most of your time in the ATL, you’ll need a place to stay. Here are a few highly-rated spots to call home while you’re in town.
McKinney Campground
McKinney Campground is an Army Corps of Engineers site in Acworth, Georgia. It’s about 25 miles from the Cobb Galleria Centre. It sits along Allatoona Lake and features a backdrop of green rolling hills.
There are 150 campsites, some of which offer waterfront access. As it’s open year-round, you can make a reservation here for Dessert Wars and any other time you want to explore the area. Just make sure you take note of their six-month rolling reservation window.
Sites here have fire rings, picnic areas, drinking water, flush toilets, and showers. The campground is a great place to relax and spend time in nature while escaping downtown.
Stanley House Inn
The Stanley House Inn was Woodrow Wilson’s Aunt Felie’s summer home. It’s a snapshot of the elegance and grace many think of when picturing the South. This quaint bed and breakfast offers a taste of the Victorian era. They have eight rooms that sleep two or three guests, including one that’s pet-friendly.
Between the designer linens and Southern-style breakfast on the weekends, you’ll feel right at home. If you’ve yet to experience it, the staff at the Stanley House Inn is a treat. They’re all about Southern hospitality.
Plus, the house sits only ten miles from the competition. Its ideal location lets you quickly get in and out of the chaos.
Renaissance Atlanta Waverly Hotel and Convention Center
Book a room at the Renaissance Atlanta Waverly Hotel Convention Center to get closer to the action. It’s less than half a mile from the Dessert Wars. If you’re looking for a hotel, this is one to consider.
You’ll find various guest rooms with queen and king-size beds. In addition, you can upgrade to a Club Level room with a king bed and an impressive view of downtown. Take a dip in the indoor pool, soak in the hot tub, or sweat it out at the fitness center. There’s also an on-site bar and restaurant to tickle those taste buds.
Bring dessert home with Dessert Person: Recipes and Guidance for Baking with Confidence.
Is a Road Trip to Dessert Wars Worth It?
We can’t think of a more delicious road trip spot than the Dessert Wars. Whether you attend the National Championship or one of the regionally-specific sites, you’re in for a treat.
Take your time and prepare your taste buds for some of the best goodies in the country. You could cast the deciding vote to help crown the reigning champion!
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