Scrapple Sculpting Contest Returns To Reading Terminal Market

PHILADELPHIA — To the uninitiated, scrapple might resemble a plate of mysterious mush. But for 12 artists competing in Reading Terminal Market's third-annual Scrapple Sculpting contest, this Pennsylvanian delicacy represents potential for greatness.

The contest returns Thursday, when 12 contestants will try to transform the Pennsylvania Dutch breakfast staple into works of art. Each participant will receive 6 pounds of scrapple, sculpting tools and 90 minutes to create a sculpture inspired by Reading Terminal Market.

It will lead into the Market's Scrapple & Apple Festival on Saturday, when festival attendees can vote for their favorite piece.

The unusual competition has attracted international attention after going viral on social media over the past two years, according to Reading Terminal Market.

This year's creations will be judged by Connie Choi, a curator at the Barnes Foundation, and Annie Allman, CEO and general manager of Reading Terminal Market. The judges will announce their winner at the end of the contest.

Winners of the people's and judge's votes will each receive a trophy, Reading Terminal swag bag, and $100 Market gift card.

Here's the schedule of scrapple festivities at Reading Terminal Market:

• Scrapple Sculpting Contest: Thursday, 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
• Scrapple & Apple Festival: Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Click here for more info on both events.