Central Farm Markets is hosting its third annual Bake Bethesda A Pie Contest at Bethesda Central Farm Market Sunday, Sept. 2. Central Farm Markets has a mission of bringing the best in fresh foods to the community while offering educational experiences, a Kid's club, and supporting organizations and businesses who bring green products and sustainable home services to its patrons.

In keeping with that mission, Central Farm Markets Labor Day pie contest has become an annual fundraising event for Manna Foods, a Central Farm Market partner organization.

Last year more than 45 participants entered very creative and delicious pies in two categories, Sweet and Savory. (The grand winner is pictured above). There are two entry divisions in the contest, Adults 18 and older and Kids 8-17.

The pie contest is open to amateur bakers only and the contest is free to enter, but there is a $5 donation to Manna required per pie entry. The entries will be capped at 50 pies this year so now is the time to enter!

“The annual 'Bake Bethesda A Pie' contest has exceeded our expectations," says market co-founder Ann Brody Cove. "There are so many talented bakers that enter their delicious creations that it is hard to choose a winner. Everyone has fun and we raise a lot of money for Manna. It’s a win-win for everyone."

Pies must be dropped off between 9 and 10 a.m., and the judging will take place at 11 a.m. Winners will be announced at noon. After the winners are announced the pies will be sliced and the spectators can sample the pies and judge for themselves how good they taste!

The judges are all food professionals and last year’s contest was judged by Bonnie Benwick, food editor of the Washington Post, Joseph Poupon, Owner of Patisserie Poupon and Carole Sugarman, food editor of Bethesda Magazine.

This event is open to the public and is free! To register visit www.centralfarmmarkets.com.

Bethesda Central Farm Market is located at 7600 Arlington Blvd. at Old Georgetown Road in Bethesda. The market is open all year on Sundays from 9 a.m.- 1 p.m..