DOVER-FOXCROFT, Maine — Festival organizers are gearing up for a sweet weekend in Dover-Foxcroft, as the Maine Whoopie Pie Festival returns on Saturday.
From 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., folks can expect a great variety of whoopie pies from classic and creative flavors to gluten free and vegan options. There will even be some treats coming from out of state.
More than 20 bakers are signed up for the event, from the likes of Bangin' Whoopie from Bangor to All Purpose Bakery Inc from Worcester, Massachusetts.
The event is hosted by the Center Theatre and Piscataquis Chamber of Commerce.
New this year, True Value Hardware will be hosting live bands, a whoopie pie eating contest, bounce houses for kids, and more.
Although the whoopie pie didn't become the state treat until 2011, the festival has been running since 2009, bringing crowds of up to 8,000 enthusiasts every year.
"We're all used to being able to go down to the corner store and get a yummy, traditional whoopie pie," festival organizer Patrick Myers said. "But if you want, you know, a sea salt caramel maple whoopie pie or a pina colada whoopie pie, or a Mexican hot chocolate whoopie pie, where else are you going to go? You got to come down to the festival."
Most of Route 15, East Main Street, and Pleasant Street will be closed for vehicular traffic due to the festival.
Organizers recommend attendees park at the Piscataquis Valley Fairgrounds, where a free shuttle service will be bringing attendees down to the festival throughout the day.
Admission is $6 per person, with free admission for kids 12 and under, according to organizers.