By Ewa Chwojko-Srawley

Every year, the Tarts4Hearts Festival draws a crowd of sweet-toothed fans; and this year’s 5th anniversary turnout surpassed all expectations!

Karin Cacciola, founder of the Peaceful Hearts Georgina Foundation, says, “The best bakers from all across Ontario come here because they know one thing—Georgina always shows up!”

Grandma’s Beach Treats, from Wasaga Beach, proudly displayed their 2019 First Place trophy.

“We’ve been coming here every year since the start,” says Mark Winegarden. “The atmosphere is fantastic, and the crowd just keeps growing! We see so many familiar faces from previous years. We have our faithful customers here and we deliver in the area.” This year, they baked a whopping 2,600 butter tarts—and by midday, half were already gone!

Debbe Hill, owner of Maids’ Cottage bakery in Newmarket, made a sweet splash at the festival, bringing along 2,500 butter tarts! “This is our first year participating, and I’m thrilled we won 1st place in the professional bakers’ category,” she shares. “We’re definitely coming back next year.”

Karin Cacciola with the winner Debbe Hill
Mark Winegarden from Grandma’s Beach Treats 

It wasn’t just about the butter tarts. Two large room at the Ice Palace bustled with vendors showcasing their crafts. A local artist, Andrea MacLeod, returning for her second year, couldn’t be happier. “It’s such a pleasure to be part of this festival again,” she says. “I’m thrilled to support a great cause and connect with the community!”

With the event as lively and well-organized as ever, Andrea’s day was a hit—not only in sales but also with new Christmas commissions lined up.

Andrea MacLeod

Rob and Carolyne Grossi are ardent supporters of the festival. Rob says, “The foundation is doing an amazing job organizing such a successful event, and Georgina never disappoints, showing up in great numbers.”

For many, it was their first experience of the excitement! Chandrika, Aharan, and Ashvitha, who moved to Georgina two years ago, were thrilled to discover this event. They explored every stand and enjoyed delicious tarts.

For Leslie and Lidia, both from Georgina, this was also their first time. They were really surprised by the incredible variety of tarts offered. They indulged in some and picked up several as gifts. Lidia couldn’t help but joke, “I think I gained 10 pounds just walking by!”

If you missed out this time, mark your calendar for next year’s sweet extravaganza. Come and indulge your sweet tooth while supporting the Peaceful Hearts Georgina Foundation, as well as all our local talents.

Professional Bakers:
1st The Maids’ Cottage; 2nd Bruno’s Bakery & Café; 3rd Better Tarts

Amateur Bakers:
1st Joan Wight; 2nd Mary Ann Baldassarra; 3rd Judy Landon

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