The Lemont Area Historical Society Presents
HOMETOWN AMERICA
Lemont Celebrates America 250
|
|
Hometown America Dessert Contest Homemade. Heartmade. Hometown Proud. Dust off those recipe cards and preheat the oven! As part of Hometown America: Lemont Celebrates America 250, we're inviting bakers of all ages to compete in our nostalgic, small-town Dessert Contest. Whether it's Grandma's famous apple pie, your award-winning brownies, patriotic cupcakes, or a family recipe that's been passed down for generations, we'd love for you to share it with the community. Join us as we celebrate America's 250th anniversary through the flavors, traditions, and hometown spirit that make Lemont special. 
|
Dessert Contest Details
Date: Saturday, July 11, 2026
Location: Lemont VFW
15780 New Ave, Lemont, IL 60439
Contest Schedule
1:00–1:45 PM
Dessert Check-In
2:00–3:15 PM
Public Viewing, Tasting & People's Choice Voting
3:15 PM
Judging Concludes
3:45 PM
Awards Presentation
Who Can Enter?Everyone is welcome to participate!
- Adults
- Teens
- Junior Bakers (ages 15 and under)
Whether you're a seasoned baker or simply have one dessert everyone asks you to bring to family gatherings, we encourage you to enter.
What Can I Enter?Homemade desserts of all kinds are welcome, including:
- Pies
- Cakes
- Cookies
- Brownies and Bars
- Cobblers and Crisps
- Cupcakes
- Cheesecakes
- No-Bake Desserts
- Family Recipe Favorites
Contest Rules
- One entry per person.
- Desserts must be homemade.
- Entrants should provide enough servings for judging and public tasting (approximately 24 small portions).
- Please include a list of ingredients for allergy awareness.
- Entries must be checked in between 1:00 and 1:45 PM on the day of the event.
- Participants are responsible for providing any serving utensils needed for their entry.
- Refrigeration space may be limited. Please note any special storage requirements when registering.
Awards & RecognitionCompete for hometown bragging rights and community recognition!
Awards may include:
🏆 Best in Show
The highest overall score from our judges.
❤️🤍💙 Most Americana
The dessert that best captures the spirit of Hometown America.
🗳️ People's Choice
Voted on by event attendees.
👩🍳 Junior Baker Award (if participation warrants)
Winners will receive ribbons, recognition during the awards ceremony, and special prizes courtesy of our community partners.
How Judging WorksA panel of community judges will evaluate entries based on:
- Taste
- Appearance
- Creativity
- Overall Presentation
- Americana Spirit
Event attendees will also have the opportunity to cast their votes for the People's Choice Award.
Volunteer for the Event
Setup begins at 1:00 PM. Volunteers are welcome to host stations, assist with refreshments, coordinate activities, or help with cleanup from 6:00–7:00 PM. Reach out to [email protected] for more info.
Setup begins at 1:00 PM. Volunteers are welcome to host stations, assist with refreshments, coordinate activities, or help with cleanup from 6:00–7:00 PM. Reach out to [email protected] for more info.