The heart of Perth was once again filled with the aroma of festive bakes and the joyous sounds of community celebration this past Sunday, as the much-loved Cakefest made its triumphant return. Synchronized with the city’s eagerly anticipated Christmas Lights Switch-On Weekend, the event transformed the Civic Hall at the Perth and Kinross Council headquarters on High Street into a bustling showcase of local culinary creativity.
Bakers from across the region rose to the challenge, presenting their finest creations in a hotly contested competition. The event featured two distinct categories: the ‘Best Traditional Christmas Cake’, which celebrated classic recipes and time-honoured decorating techniques, and a ‘Freestyle’ section, encouraging participants to unleash their most innovative and imaginative designs. The sheer diversity on display, from intricate sugarcraft to daring flavour combinations, truly underscored the exceptional talent within the Perth and Kinross community.
The competition offered tempting incentives for the region’s best bakers. Top honours in each category were rewarded with a generous £100 Perth Gift Card, an initiative that not only celebrated the winners but also encouraged vital local spending. Second and third-place entrants were also recognized for their remarkable efforts, each receiving a £50 gift card, further bolstering the local economy and fostering a spirit of friendly rivalry. The Historic Bakers’ Parade Marches On
A particularly enchanting highlight of this year’s festivities was the vibrant revival of the ancient ‘Bakers’ Parade’. This centuries-old tradition, deeply rooted in the rich history of the ‘Fair City’, made a magnificent comeback, adding a unique historical flavour to the modern Christmas celebrations. Participants, many proudly carrying their meticulously crafted cakes and bakes, marched through the city centre in a colourful procession.
Leading the spirited parade was the distinctive Absurdist Pipe Band, whose lively and unconventional melodies provided an unforgettable soundtrack as the procession wound its way along King Edward Street. The spectacle was further enhanced by graceful stilt walkers, whose towering presence added an element of whimsical wonder, captivating the crowds that lined the streets to cheer on the bakers and revel in the festive atmosphere. A Celebration of Local Skill and Community Spirit
The dedication and artistry of the local bakers were evident in every single entry. The judging panel, which included esteemed local figure Provost Xander McDade, faced an exceptionally difficult task in evaluating the array of edible masterpieces. Each cake was a testament to countless hours of careful planning, precise execution, and a true passion for baking. The level of detail and originality in both the traditional and freestyle categories left a lasting impression on everyone present, from casual observers to seasoned culinary enthusiasts.
Among the many talented individuals, Siobhan Campbell emerged as the victor in the fiercely competitive open category, a testament to her outstanding skill and creative vision. Her winning entry captivated the judges and stood out amidst a field of truly remarkable bakes, highlighting the high standards of local amateur baking.
Beyond the excitement of the competition and the grandeur of the parade, Cakefest served as a powerful focal point for community engagement. It brought together families, friends, and neighbours, creating a warm, inclusive atmosphere that perfectly complemented the city’s Christmas Lights Switch-On. The event was a testament to Perth’s vibrant community spirit and its commitment to preserving and celebrating its unique traditions while embracing contemporary talent. The palpable sense of pride and camaraderie among attendees and participants alike underscored the enduring appeal of such local gatherings. Organisers and volunteers worked tirelessly to ensure the smooth running of all activities, from the intricate setup in the Civic Hall to the management of the street parade, demonstrating a collective dedication to making the event a resounding success. This collaborative effort not only provided a platform for local bakers but also strengthened the bonds within the community, reinforcing Perth’s identity as a city that values both its past and its present.
The resounding success of Cakefest 2025 has firmly cemented its place as an essential fixture in Perth’s annual festive calendar. It beautifully combines the charm of age-old customs with the dynamism of modern creativity, ensuring that the ‘Fair City’ continues to offer enchanting and enriching experiences for both its residents and the many visitors drawn to its seasonal celebrations.
Bakers from across the region rose to the challenge, presenting their finest creations in a hotly contested competition. The event featured two distinct categories: the ‘Best Traditional Christmas Cake’, which celebrated classic recipes and time-honoured decorating techniques, and a ‘Freestyle’ section, encouraging participants to unleash their most innovative and imaginative designs. The sheer diversity on display, from intricate sugarcraft to daring flavour combinations, truly underscored the exceptional talent within the Perth and Kinross community.
The competition offered tempting incentives for the region’s best bakers. Top honours in each category were rewarded with a generous £100 Perth Gift Card, an initiative that not only celebrated the winners but also encouraged vital local spending. Second and third-place entrants were also recognized for their remarkable efforts, each receiving a £50 gift card, further bolstering the local economy and fostering a spirit of friendly rivalry. The Historic Bakers’ Parade Marches On
A particularly enchanting highlight of this year’s festivities was the vibrant revival of the ancient ‘Bakers’ Parade’. This centuries-old tradition, deeply rooted in the rich history of the ‘Fair City’, made a magnificent comeback, adding a unique historical flavour to the modern Christmas celebrations. Participants, many proudly carrying their meticulously crafted cakes and bakes, marched through the city centre in a colourful procession.
Leading the spirited parade was the distinctive Absurdist Pipe Band, whose lively and unconventional melodies provided an unforgettable soundtrack as the procession wound its way along King Edward Street. The spectacle was further enhanced by graceful stilt walkers, whose towering presence added an element of whimsical wonder, captivating the crowds that lined the streets to cheer on the bakers and revel in the festive atmosphere. A Celebration of Local Skill and Community Spirit
The dedication and artistry of the local bakers were evident in every single entry. The judging panel, which included esteemed local figure Provost Xander McDade, faced an exceptionally difficult task in evaluating the array of edible masterpieces. Each cake was a testament to countless hours of careful planning, precise execution, and a true passion for baking. The level of detail and originality in both the traditional and freestyle categories left a lasting impression on everyone present, from casual observers to seasoned culinary enthusiasts.
Among the many talented individuals, Siobhan Campbell emerged as the victor in the fiercely competitive open category, a testament to her outstanding skill and creative vision. Her winning entry captivated the judges and stood out amidst a field of truly remarkable bakes, highlighting the high standards of local amateur baking.
Beyond the excitement of the competition and the grandeur of the parade, Cakefest served as a powerful focal point for community engagement. It brought together families, friends, and neighbours, creating a warm, inclusive atmosphere that perfectly complemented the city’s Christmas Lights Switch-On. The event was a testament to Perth’s vibrant community spirit and its commitment to preserving and celebrating its unique traditions while embracing contemporary talent. The palpable sense of pride and camaraderie among attendees and participants alike underscored the enduring appeal of such local gatherings. Organisers and volunteers worked tirelessly to ensure the smooth running of all activities, from the intricate setup in the Civic Hall to the management of the street parade, demonstrating a collective dedication to making the event a resounding success. This collaborative effort not only provided a platform for local bakers but also strengthened the bonds within the community, reinforcing Perth’s identity as a city that values both its past and its present.
The resounding success of Cakefest 2025 has firmly cemented its place as an essential fixture in Perth’s annual festive calendar. It beautifully combines the charm of age-old customs with the dynamism of modern creativity, ensuring that the ‘Fair City’ continues to offer enchanting and enriching experiences for both its residents and the many visitors drawn to its seasonal celebrations.