Think you can win without using your hands?
Join the Speed Eating Contest & Make History in Venice, FL (2026)
The Inaugural Parlor Donuts Strawberry Shortcake Festival on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at Koworx Coworking Space in Venice is shaping up to be an epic celebration of Florida strawberries—and the Strawberry Shortcake Speed Eating Contest is where legends are made.
We need YOU to step up and compete. Whether you’re a seasoned food challenger, a family looking for fun, or just someone with a big appetite and a love for sweets, this is your chance to claim the title of Venice’s fastest strawberry shortcake eater and be part of festival history.
As Venice Nights and Gback Media, we’re rallying the community to fill this contest and make the inaugural year unforgettable. Spots are limited, the contest will be streamed live on Facebook, and the energy from the crowd, live music, and the night market will make this a highlight for everyone. Don’t miss your shot—sign up and bring the heat (or the sweet)!
Event Snapshot
- Event: The Inaugural Parlor Donuts Strawberry Shortcake Festival
- Date: Saturday, March 14, 2026
- Location: Koworx Coworking Space – 1101 S Tamiami Trl Suite 101, Venice, FL 34285
- Contest: Strawberry Shortcake Speed Eating Contest
- Sign-Up Fees apply to participate in the contest (festival admission is separate and it’s FREE).
Why You Should Compete
This isn’t just eating—it’s a high-energy, mouth-only showdown for bragging rights, trophies, prizes, and a spot in Venice festival lore.
What makes it worth it
- Be Part of History: It’s the inaugural event—your name could go down as the first champion.
- Prizes & Recognition: to be announced
- Live-Streaming Glory: The contest streams live on Facebook—show off your skills to friends, family, and everyone watching.
- Family-Friendly Competition: Adult division (18+) and a possible kids division (ages 8–17) with adjusted rules/portions if enough kids sign up.
- Ultimate Festival Experience: Compete, then celebrate with live music from The Outsiderz, night market shopping, and more strawberry shortcake goodness.
Competitors from all over Southwest Florida are signing up—jump in and represent your crew.
Entry Details
Registration is easy, but spots are limited (first-come, first-served).
Registration timing
- Online registration: Open now; closes at 4:00 PM on event day
- Day-of registration: Available at the Info Booth until 4:00 PM
- Waiver required: All participants (and guardians for minors) must sign a liability waiver on-site
Pro tip: Grab a training pack (or a four-pack) from Parlor Doughnuts ahead of time—practice at home and show up ready.
Safety First
We want this to be fast, fun, and safe for everyone.
- Water will be provided to all competitors.
- On-site judges can pause or stop a competitor at any time if they believe it’s unsafe to continue.
- Compete at your own pace: If you feel unwell, you can stop—no questions asked.
- Waivers are required for all participants, and a parent/guardian must sign for minors.
Contest Rules Recap
Keep it fair, fast, and fun:
- No Hands Allowed – Mouth only (hands behind your back or on the table).
- All Doughnut Must Be Consumed – Entire strawberry shortcake doughnut (cake, toppings, everything).
- Clean Plate Finish – Judges check plates; crumbs bigger than a dime may disqualify.
- Time-Based – Fastest clean finish wins heats and the final.
- No Cheating – No throwing, sharing, or spitting.
- Safety First – Judges can stop the contest if needed.
- Judges’ Decisions Final – No appeals.
Multiple elimination rounds lead to a head-to-head final—top performers from heats advance. If enough kids sign up, we’ll run a separate division.
Sign Up & Help Make the Inaugural Legendary
We want a packed field of competitors to make this contest truly epic. Whether you’re going solo, bringing your family, or rallying friends, this is your moment. SIGN UP HERE.
Questions?
Contact Paul Kaldy at 941-667-0183 or info@gbackmedia.com.
Follow Venice Nights for registration reminders, practice tips, and the latest updates. March 14, 2026 at Koworx on the Island—bring your appetite, your competitive spirit, and let’s crown Venice’s fastest strawberry shortcake eater together.