Alexandria, VA – Get your forks ready! One of Del Ray’s most delicious competitions returns this fall with the 18th Annual Pam’s Pie Competition & Bake Sale, part of the Art on the Avenue festival happening on Saturday, October 4.
Now located in front of The Dairy Godmother at 2310 Mount Vernon Ave, this year’s contest invites bakers of all ages and experience levels to bake, donate, or just show up hungry to support a great cause. All proceeds from pie sales will benefit the Alexandria Domestic Violence Safehouse.
“I’ve been a proud Art on the Avenue volunteer for the past decade, and I was honored to take the reins of the Pie Contest last year,” said Autumn Rose, this year’s Pie Contest coordinator. “It holds a special place in my heart because it blends everything I love: creativity, community, and a whole lot of butter. Pam Fitzgerald, who launched this tradition 18 years ago, believed in bringing people together through kindness and pie. We’re honored to carry that legacy forward.”
Three Ways to Get Involved
● Enter the Contest: Bring a homemade, shelf-stable pie (no refrigeration required) in an 8”–10” disposable pan to the Pie Booth between 9:30 and 11:30 a.m. Judging begins at 12 p.m., and winners will be announced throughout the afternoon from the festival’s main stage.
● Donate a Pie: Not feeling competitive? Donate a pie for sale—your creation will help raise money for the cause.
● Buy a Slice: Pie slices will be sold for $5 each.
Freshly Baked Categories for 2025
This year’s contest includes five refreshed categories to celebrate every level of baker:
● Cutie Pies – Ages 11 & under (with help from grown-ups)
● Rising Crusts – Teen bakers ages 12–19 baking independently
● Timeless Taste – Traditional pies executed to perfection
● Pie-oneering Flavors – Unusual and creative combinations that surprise and delight
● Pros of the Pastry – For past winners and professional bakers
All entries are judged on flavor, execution, creativity or tradition, and presentation. Visit www.artontheavenue.org/pies to learn more, read contest rules, or sign up to volunteer.
