WICKER PARK — Donut Fest is returning to Chop Shop's 1st Ward Jan. 25 and much like the waistlines of its attendees, the event is expanding.
After a wildly successful debut in 2014 that sold out in less time than it takes to eat a bacon-maple long john, organizers have bowed to popular demand and added a second session.
Fried dough fans can now choose between getting their glaze on in the morning, 8-11 a.m., or at lunchtime, 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m.
Tickets are $30 to $35 and go on sale at noon Friday. Buy tickets here.
The event's founder, Alyssa Erickson, previously told DNAinfo Chicago that she was inspired to create the festival after sampling a cinnamon crunch doughnut from Do-Rite Donuts in the Loop.
When a coworker responded enthusiastically to her offhand idea of all-doughnut festival, "I thought, 'Hmm, this should happen,'" said Erickson, a Lakeview resident.
Rebecca Skoch, creator of Poutine Fest and co-organizer of last year's Donut Fest, has taken over the running of the event. So far she's lined up 10 doughnut makers for the 2015 fest, including West Town Bakery, winner of last year's fan favorite award for its beer pretzel doughnut with a spiced cookie filling. No word on whether Endgrain, whose doughscuit took home the top judges prize, will defend its title, having recently shuttered without notice.
In addition to samplings from all of the participating bakeries, the fest also serves up plenty of coffee for a combined sugar-and-caffeine buzz that can't be beat. This year, attendees will also have the option to purchase additional doughnuts to take home.
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