By Staff
BERRIEN SPRINGS – The Berrien County Youth Fair is searching for the "Best of Berrien" in its 13th annual Baked Fruit Pie Contest. The event is held on the last day of the fair, Aug. 16, with registration beginning at 9:30 a.m. and judging at 10 a.m. in the USA Ag/Expo building. This year's fair dates are Aug. 11-16 with the theme "The Experience of a Lifetime."
"The contest was created to promote the fruit industry of Southwest Michigan. The fair holds strong traditions and this is one of those old-fashioned country fair events," said event chairman, Bruce Foster.
There are two divisions for the contest, the youth division for ages 12 to 21 and the adult division for ages 22 and older. Each pie is also judged for the coveted "Most Eye Appealing" pie honor, won last year by Heidi Hopson of Niles. The youth winner was Nicole Krebsbach, Berrien Springs, and the adult winner was Elaine March, Buchanan.
A variety of fruit pies have been entered in the past, including raspberry, peach, rhubarb, cherry, pear, strawberry, plum, raisin, and blackberry to name a few. Winners receive trophies, ribbons and gift baskets filled with prizes from local businesses.
The deadline for entry is Aug. 1, which includes an entry sheet and the recipe. Pies can be single, double, or lattice crust and must be made from scratch. No mixes or canned fillings may be used. No whipped topping or cream filling of any kind is allowed. Each contestant may enter a maximum of two pies. Registration forms are available at the fair office at 9122 Old US 31 in Berrien Springs or on-line at www.bcyf.org. For questions call the fair office at (269) 473-4251.