Grandpa Shorter’s Gifts Announces First-Ever Zucchini Bread Bake-Off to Benefit Manna Food Project
Get ready to slice into something special! Grandpa Shorter’s Gifts is excited to announce its inaugural Zucchini Bread Bake-Off, taking place on Saturday, August 23, 2025, in downtown Petoskey. Bakers of all ages and skill levels are invited to enter and show off their most delicious creations in a community contest that celebrates creativity, summer harvest, and giving back.
This flavorful event was inspired by the quirky national holiday “Sneak Some Zucchini Onto Your Neighbor’s Porch Day”—and we’re turning that garden overflow into something good for the whole community. All entry fees will go directly to support Manna Food Project, a local nonprofit dedicated to fighting hunger in northern Michigan.
Entry is simple:
- Bakers may submit one mini-loaf of homemade zucchini bread in one of three categories: Classic, Creative Twist, or Kids (14 and under).
- Entry drop-off is between 9 AM and 11 AM on the day of the event.
- A $15 donation to Manna (cash or check only) is required at drop-off.
- Judging begins at noon, and winners will be announced at 3 PM, both in-store and via Facebook Live.
Entries will be judged by a panel of local food lovers on appearance, texture, flavor, and creativity. Each participant will receive a $25 gift certificate to Grandpa Shorter’s family of stores, and the top baker in each category will take home a $250 gift certificate to a collection of downtown businesses.
“We had so much fun hosting our Banana Bread Bake-Off earlier this year that we knew we had to bring the fun back for zucchini season,” says Jennifer Shorter, third-generation owner of Grandpa Shorter’s. “This is about delicious competition, supporting a great cause, and strengthening our downtown community.”
Bakers must sign up in-store only at Grandpa Shorter’s Gifts (301 E. Lake Street). Full rules and event details can be found in-store or by calling (231) 347-2603.
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