Chatham-Kent's first-ever Tart & Soul Butter Tart Festival brought thousands of guests to the area.
Founder Doug Robbins said more than 3,000 visitors made their way to Chatham's Sons of Kent Brewing Co. to take part in the festivities.
"We knew people loved butter tarts, but the turnout and support absolutely blew us away," Robbins said. "We had folks drive in from hours away just to get a taste. Chatham really showed up... and so did the rest of Ontario."
The festival showcased more than just the quintessentially Canadian dessert. As the stage saw live music and local vendors and artisans were able to display their wares.
The blind-tasting competition saw Welland's Bomb Bish Bakery take the top prize in three of four categories, winning the People's Choice Award, Best Traditional Butter Tart, and Best Specialty Butter Tart.
The Best Home Baker award went to a local entrant, the Buxton National Historic Site and Museum.
Robbins is already planning for Tart & Soul 2026, which he said will be bigger and better.
