BagelFest 2024: More Than Just Tastings!
BagelFest is packed with exciting activities beyond the delicious bagel tastings. From industry panels to VIP stadium tours, we’ve got something for everyone. Here’s what you can look forward to:
Event Highlights
Industry Expert Panels
Head to the breakout space to hear from leaders in the bagel industry. Topics include:
From Pop-Up Shop to Brick-and-Mortar
Innovation in the Bagel Industry
How to Scale Your Bagel Business
How to Leverage Social Media to Grow Your Business
Citi Field Stadium Tours (VIP Exclusive)
VIP ticket holders get the chance to explore Citi Field! These 45-minute tours will take you behind the scenes, including the clubhouse, dugout, and even the warning track (weather permitting). Limited spots available.
Miss Pop Nails
Limited Edition Nail Stickers
Get your hands on limited edition bagel stickers from Miss Pop Nails - or rather, get these stickers on your hands! Available for purchase at BagelFest (additional charges may apply)
Bagel Rolling CHampionship
Watch (or participate in) the exciting Bagel Rolling Championship and see who can roll bagels with the most speed and precision. A fun, fast-paced event showcasing real bagel-making skills!
BagelFest Awards Ceremony
Celebrate the best of BagelFest at the Awards Ceremony where top honors, including “Best of the Fest,” "Best Bagel," and "Schmear of the Year" will be announced. Don’t miss out on seeing who takes home the titles!
Other Activities
THe Inner Circle Industry Mixer Welcome PaRty
Friday, September 27
Good Behavior NYC
5-8pm
Presented by A. Oliveri & Sons
Artisan Hands-on Bagel Baking Class
Learn how to make authentic New York bagels from scratch in our hands-on bagel baking class. A great way to kick off or end your BagelFest experience!
Classes Thursday 9/26 & Sunday 9/29
NYC Bagel TOur
Discover the history and culture of bagels in NYC with a guided tour of some of the city’s best bagel spots.
Friday 9/27 at 11am
industry expert panels
Industry Expert Panel discussions will take place throughout BagelFest. Head over to the breakout space to learn from industry leaders and innovators will provide insights on topics ranging from scaling a bagel business to leveraging social media for growth. These sessions offer valuable knowledge on the latest trends, challenges, and strategies shaping the bagel industry—perfect for anyone looking to learn from top professionals in the field.
From Pop-Up Shop To Brick-and-Mortar
10:15 - 11 AM
Discover the challenges and rewards of transitioning from a pop-up operation to a permanent storefront. Learn from successful bagel entrepreneurs who’ve navigated the journey and find out what it takes to establish a thriving brick-and-mortar presence.
Panelists: Elana Carlson of Fantzye Bagels, Lindy Reid of Rhodo Bagels
Moderator: Rachel Askinasi, Food & Travel Journalist
Innovation in the Bagel Industry
11:15 AM - 12 PM
Explore how new techniques, unique ingredients, and creative processes are shaping the future of bagels. This session will highlight the latest trends and breakthroughs that are redefining the bagel industry.
Panelists: Craig Hutchinson from Olmo Bagels, Brad Kent of Original Sunshine, Jeremy Rhodes of Moonrise Bagels
Moderator: Jeff Yankellow, Director of Bakery Foodservice Sales at King Arthur
Thinking about expanding? Hear from industry leaders who have successfully grown their businesses from single locations to regional or national brands. Learn the key strategies for scaling while maintaining quality and customer loyalty.
Panelists: Emily Winston of Boichik Bagels, Melanie Frost of Ess-a-Bagel
Moderator: Jaymee Sire, Host of “Food Network Obsessed”
Unlock the power of social media! This panel will share insider tips on creating engaging content, building a loyal online following, and using platforms like Instagram and TikTok to drive business growth.
Panelists: Jesse Spellman of Utopia Bagels, Stephen El-Hassan of O'Bagel
Moderator: Dara Pollak, Creator
How To Scale Your Bagel Business
1:15 - 2 PM
How to Leverage Social Media to Grow Your Business
2:15 - 3 PM