Library Cake Social

Bakers will bring their cake between 1–2PM (before the event start) to setup their cake display and mingle with other bakers ahead of the event start at 2PM.

Bakers will then participate in a structured sampling experience designed to ensure fairness, variety, and an enjoyable flow for everyone.

Here’s how it works:

• Bakers are divided into small rotating groups at check-in
• Each group participates in timed sampling rounds
• During each round, bakers may select one slice per cake (from multiple cakes)
• A standard cake box is provided to collect slices
• Once structured rounds conclude, open social sampling begins (if cake remains)
• Optional wine pairings will be available for purchase (21+)

Every baker will have a full box of cake slices from their fellow bakers!

This format ensures that every baker has equal access to a wide variety of cakes before the event transitions into relaxed social time.

The Library Cake Social Awards celebrate creativity, storytelling, and community spirit.

This is not a judged competition — it’s a lighthearted celebration of visual design and imagination (not based on taste, texture, etc). All awards will be voted on during the event by attendees. Bakers do not need to select a category in advance.

📖 The Well-Read Cake Award

Best Book-Inspired Creation

Description:
Awarded to the cake inspired by a book, story, author, library theme, or the joy of reading.

Inspiration may be literal or abstract — from vintage book stacks and favorite genres to cozy reading moments or the magic of libraries themselves.

Examples of inspiration:

• A favorite novel or author
• Stacks of books or open pages
• Literary spring themes or cozy reading moments

🌸 The Spring in Bloom Award

Best Floral or Garden-Inspired Cake

Description:
Celebrates cakes inspired by springtime — flowers, gardens, fresh color palettes, and the feeling of renewal.

Floral elements may be piped, painted, sculpted, or expressed through texture and color.

Examples of inspiration:

• Blossoms, herbs, or botanical patterns
• Soft spring palettes or garden textures
• Nature-forward or seasonal designs

🇺🇸 The America 250 Celebration Award

Best Patriotic or Maryland-Inspired Cake

Description:
In honor of America’s 250th celebration, this award recognizes cakes inspired by American heritage, Maryland pride, or local history.

Themes may be classic or creative — honoring tradition, community, and the spirit of celebration.

Examples of inspiration:

• Red, white, and blue designs
• Maryland flag elements or local landmarks
• Historic symbols or state-inspired flavors
• Creative interpretations of community and country

To participate in the Library Cake Social, each baker should bring:

• One (1) single-layer cake (your original creation)
• 12-inch round cake
• Any flavor or creative inspiration is welcome
• Cake should be fully decorated and presentation-ready
• A cake stand or display surface for the cake to stay on

If you’d like inspiration, you may reference the event award themes for creative direction — but this is optional. Bakers are encouraged to showcase their unique style.

During the event’s structured sampling rounds, bakers will slice and collect one piece per cake into their provided cake box.

Please label any personal items and plan to take all materials home at the conclusion of the event.

Cake drop-off begins at 1:00 PM.

Ingredient & Allergen Information

All bakers will be required to submit ingredient and allergen information prior to the event. A follow-up email will be sent to registered bakers with a short form to complete (1–2 weeks out from the event date).

Uniform cake information cards will be prepared and displayed beside each cake.

Cake Social Guests enjoy a curated tasting experience featuring cakes provided by our Featured Bakery Partners and event sponsors. These are different from the Baker cakes.

Here’s how it works:

• Each Guest Ticket includes 3 tasting tickets
• Tasting tickets may be redeemed at the Featured Bakery & Sponsor Cake tables
• Additional tasting tickets are available for $5 each
• Guests may participate in audience voting for Awards (given to the Bakers). Awards are for the visual thematic appearances of the cakes only (not based on taste).
• Optional wine pairings will be available for purchase (21+)
• Social seating and community gathering time follow the tasting period

This format allows guests to sample a variety of cakes while enjoying a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere.

The Library Cake Social Awards celebrate creativity, storytelling, and community spirit. 

During the event, Guests will be asked to help vote on the visual design and imagination of the cakes brought in by bakers. Cakes will be viewable and on display for a window of time before tastings begin. All guests will be given ballot slips to submit their votes.

📖 The Well-Read Cake Award

Best Book-Inspired Creation

Description:
Awarded to the cake inspired by a book, story, author, library theme, or the joy of reading. Inspiration may be literal or abstract — from vintage book stacks and favorite genres to cozy reading moments or the magic of libraries themselves.

🌸 The Spring in Bloom Award

Best Floral or Garden-Inspired Cake

Description:
Celebrates cakes inspired by springtime — flowers, gardens, fresh color palettes, and the feeling of renewal. Floral elements may be piped, painted, sculpted, or expressed through texture and color.

🇺🇸 The America 250 Celebration Award

Best Patriotic or Maryland-Inspired Cake

Description:
In honor of America’s 250th celebration, this award recognizes cakes inspired by American heritage, Maryland pride, or local history. Themes may be classic or creative — honoring tradition, community, and the spirit of celebration.