Butter tart lovers will have a new reason to celebrate this summer as Chatham prepares to host the first-ever Tart & Soul Butter Tart Festival on Saturday, June 28.
The free, all-ages event will take place at Sons of Kent Brewing Co. on Adelaide Street South. Organizers say it will feature a full day of sweet treats, soulful music and a bustling market showcasing the work of local artisans.
Chatham food enthusiast Doug Robbins — also known as Dougthefoodie — is organizing the festival in partnership with the Curious Bird Market. He says the event is not only a celebration of one of Canada’s most iconic desserts but also a way to bring people together through food and creativity.
Bakers from across Ontario have signed up to compete in the festival’s Butter Tart Competition, with confirmed participants coming from Welland, Windsor, Sarnia, Etobicoke, London, Innisfil and other communities. Only one baker from Chatham-Kent has entered so far, something Robbins hopes will change before the event.
“We’ve got Tartisans coming from all over the province, but only one brave soul stepping up from Chatham-Kent,” said Robbins. “As a local, I’m both proud and a little heartbroken — where are my hometown heroes?”
The competition is open to bakers of all experience levels and includes judged and crowd-voted categories. Alongside the contest, visitors can browse vendor booths offering items such as preserves, candles, coffee and handmade kitchenware.
Robbins said the goal is to create more than just a food festival. He hopes to build a sense of community and connection through a shared love of baking and local culture.
“This is a chance to connect over something joyful, support local creators and have a whole lot of fun,” he said. “Whether you’re baking, vending or just indulging, there’s a place for you here.”
The festival begins at 11 a.m. and will be held at Sons of Kent Brewing Co., located at 29 Adelaide St. S. in Chatham. Admission is free.
More information is available at tartandsoulfest.ca. Vendors interested in participating can contact Robbins at dougthefoodie@icloud.com.
