Don't Get Left Behind the Counter, Bagel Shops! New York BagelFest Applications Close on June 26th

The clock is ticking for bagel makers, schmear specialists, food innovators, and emerging culinary brands hoping to secure a spot at New York BagelFest, as June 26, 2026 is announced as the deadline for exhibitor applications. Set for Sunday, November 15, 2026, BagelFest Presented by King Arthur Baking Company brings together the most celebrated names in the bagel world, alongside rising stars from New York, across the United States, and beyond. The annual event has become the definitive gathering for carbs, attracting thousands of passionate consumers, influential food media, content creators, chefs, retailers, and buyers for a day of tasting and community. With exhibitor demand rising for festival, organizers are encouraging brands to get their applications in early.

"BagelFest is a proven platform to launch regional brands into the national culinary spotlight," says Sam Silverman, New York’s Bagel Ambassador, and CEO of BagelFest and BagelUp. "Exhibitors gain exposure to thousands of passionate consumers and millions more eyeballs through high-profile media, while building lasting connections with top makers from across the country and around the world. If you're serious about growing your bagel brand, there's no higher-leverage investment than exhibiting at BagelFest."

What began as a celebration of one of America's most beloved foods has evolved into a nationally recognized platform for brand discovery, culinary innovation, and networking. From iconic New York institutions to acclaimed independent bakeries from across the country, BagelFest has become a proving ground where local favorites earn national recognition and emerging brands find new audiences.

The exhibitor selection process is intentionally curated. Applicants undergo a review process that may include interviews, tastings, and evaluations to ensure attendees experience the very best bagels, spreads, toppings, and complementary food products available today. Organizers are seeking a diverse mix of established and emerging brands, with exhibitors expected to represent both the New York metropolitan area and destinations from around the country and around the world.

For many participants, the impact of exhibiting extends well beyond a single day. "BagelFest has honestly been the best thing ever for my business," said Oren Salomon, Owner of Starship Bagel in Dallas, Texas. "We went from neighborhood bagel shop to regional bagel shop and people started driving out from over an hour away to wait in line for our bagels." Salomon's bakery has become one of the most decorated brands in BagelFest history, earning Best Bagel honors in 2023 and 2025, Schmear of the Year in 2024, a Schmear of the Year Runner-Up finish in 2025, Best Showmanship in 2025, and Most Creative Runner-Up recognition in 2025.

The exhibitor application announcement comes as BagelFest develops a revamped sponsorship program for the event. Organizers are engaged in on identifying brands that authentically align with the BagelFest audience and share the festival's commitment to quality, community, and culinary culture. BagelFest is intentionally focused on building meaningful partnerships with best-in-class businesses that can enhance the attendee experience.

As anticipation builds for the November event, organizers expect competition for exhibitor spots to remain strong. Interested brands are encouraged not to wait until the last minute to throw their hat, or their sesame seed-covered bagel, into the ring. Exhibitor applications will be accepted through June 26, 2026 at https://www.bagelfest.com/exhibit. Companies interested in sponsorship opportunities are encouraged to contact the BagelFest team to discuss partnership options and custom activation opportunities at info@bagelfest.com or 917-267-9338.