Treat yourself to an unforgettable weekend celebrating the art of baking like never before.
This isn’t just a trip—it’s a boutique baking getaway curated by the founder of The Bake Fest, Stefani Pollack. Every moment has been thoughtfully designed with experiences you simply can’t book on your own.
This isn’t a cookie-cutter trip—it’s an intimate weekend (with only 40 spots available) where you’ll connect with fellow bakers who share your passion. Together, you’ll:
From transportation and meals to immersive experiences, we’re handling every detail so you can relax, learn, and create. Whether you’re an expert baker or just getting started, this weekend will leave you inspired and recharged.
Kristin “Baker Bettie” Hoffman is a classically trained chef, bestselling cookbook author, and the creator of the popular Baker Bettie brand, with over half a million followers across social media. Known for her warm, approachable teaching style, she has inspired bakers around the world to master techniques and gain confidence in the kitchen.
At her 1950s retro-themed baking school, Bettie’s Chicago, she combines professional expertise with a passion for community, creating a space where bakers of all levels feel welcome. Her ability to make even the most intimidating recipes approachable has earned her a loyal following and cemented her reputation as one of The Bake Fest’s most cherished instructors.
With over 35 years of experience, Judith Dunbar Hines has been a pivotal figure in Chicago’s culinary scene. As the former Director of Culinary Arts and Events for the City of Chicago’s Department of Cultural Affairs, she developed groundbreaking culinary tourism initiatives and launched Chicago’s Downtown Farmstand to highlight local produce.
Gale Gand is a pastry chef and chef and was a co-founder, pastry chef, and partner in the Michelin two-star restaurant, Tru, in Chicago. She hosted Food Network’s long running show “Sweet Dreams” (currently streaming on Discovery Plus), is the author of 8 cookbooks, and worked with Julia Child on her book and PBS series, “Baking with Julia”. Gale teaches cooking classes all over the country and is an artisanal soda pop maker producing Gale’s Root Beer which is sold nationally. She has received 2 James Beard Awards, has been inducted to the American Academy of Chefs and the Chicago Chefs Hall of Fame, and was schooled in Paris at La Varenne.
Gale appears at many Food and Wine festivals across the country and is a professional Pie and Food Competition Judge. In 2022 she volunteered to cook in Poland and Ukraine with Jose Andres’ World Central Kitchen and taught a Chocolate and Vanilla Master Class at a Culinary School in Derry, Northern Ireland. She is the mother of 3, has a BFA from RIT in Metalsmithing, and plays the ukulele. Fun fact-She once made a Peach Cobbler for Aretha Franklin.
Our hands-on decorating class takes place at the Wilton Sweet Studio, a creative space where baking dreams come true. Known for setting the standard in cake decorating, Wilton is opening its doors to us for an exclusive look behind the scenes. At the Wilton Sweet Studio, you’ll get to learn from the experts who define industry trends, mastering new decorating skills in a place that combines innovation with a love of baking tradition. It’s an opportunity to get inspired, sharpen your skills, and experience firsthand why Wilton is synonymous with baking excellence.
On Sunday morning, we’ll gather at Kendall College, a premier culinary institution in Chicago, for a hands-on chocolate truffle-making class with Chef Jing P. Palasigue. Known for its top-tier culinary and hospitality programs, Kendall shapes the future of the food industry.
In this exclusive class, Chef Jing will teach the art of hand-rolled chocolate truffles, from emulsifying ganache to working with couverture chocolate and tempering using the tabling method. You’ll get hands-on experience enrobing, dipping, and rolling your own decadent confections.
A Pastry Chef Instructor and Certified Master Sugar Artist, Chef Jing is internationally recognized for his cake and sugar artistry. He’s been featured on Food Network’s The Big Bake: Halloween and showcased on ABC 7 Chicago and WGN 9 News. As the founder of Cakes ‘n Crumbs Bakery, he blends artistry with entrepreneurship. This is your chance to learn from a master chocolatier in a world-class pastry kitchen!
Afternoon: Arrival & Check-In
Evening: Welcome Dinner
Morning: Wilton Sweet Studio & Innovation Center Experience
Afternoon: Split Group Activities
Evening: Private Dinner Cruise
Morning: Split Group Activities
Afternoon: Split Group Activities (Repeated from Saturday)
Evening: Farewell Wrap-Up
We’d love to have you join us for Whisked Away Chicago, but we know you might still have a few questions or that this year’s dates might not work for you. Here’s how we can keep you in the loop.
Thanks for requesting information. We’ll keep you in the loop!
Sorry, we encountered an error processing your request. Please try again later.
On this exclusive bakery tour, you’ll step into some of Chicago’s most iconic baking spaces, hear the stories behind their creations, and experience the flavors that make them unforgettable. Led by culinary expert Judith Dunbar Hines, this behind-the-scenes journey celebrates the craft, culture, and creativity of baking.
Floriole: French Elegance in Every Bite
Step into the heart of French-inspired baking at Floriole, where rustic pastries, seasonal Midwestern ingredients, and world-renowned croissants take center stage. Floriole’s owner, Sandra Holl, will welcome us with a light lunch and share her journey from a humble Green City Market tent to a celebrated brick-and-mortar bakery. David Liebovitz declares this is the only place he will stop for true croissants when he visits the US from Paris!
Sweet Mandy B’s: Celebrations in Every Slice
Experience the joy of desserts that have been bringing smiles to Chicagoans since 2002. At Sweet Mandy B’s, renowned pastry chef Sherrie Tan will showcase her incredible custom cakes and give us a peek into the artistry and care behind her celebration-worthy treats. From buttercream flowers to towering confections, you’ll leave inspired to create your own showstoppers.
Panaderia Nuevo Leon: A Mexican Baking Legacy
Step into the rich history of Panaderia Nuevo Leon, a beloved bakery in the vibrant Pilsen neighborhood. From hand-crafted breads to traditional Mexican pastries, this family-owned bakery has been thriving for over 50 years. We’ll meet the bakers, see vintage equipment in action, and enjoy refreshments next door at Mi Corazon Café, a charming storefront run by the third generation of this baking dynasty. While in Pilsen, we’ll also take a brief walk to admire the stunning murals that line the streets, making this stop a feast for the eyes as well as the palate.
This isn’t your typical bakery tour—it’s a journey into the heart of Chicago’s baking culture, crafted just for this retreat. You’ll taste the passion, hear the stories, and experience the magic behind every loaf, pastry, and cake. From the delicate croissants of Floriole to the celebratory confections of Sweet Mandy B’s and the rich traditions of Panaderia Nuevo Leon, each stop offers something truly unforgettable.
We’ve reserved a block of rooms at the Virgin Hotel in downtown Chicago, an iconic destination known for its unique style, comfort, and unbeatable service. Located in the heart of the city, the Virgin Hotel offers easy access to our getaway activities and the vibrant energy of Chicago. With its chic rooms, modern amenities, and thoughtfully designed communal spaces, it’s the perfect place to relax and unwind after a full day of baking, exploring, and making new friends. If you decide to extend your stay, we’re happy to assist with suggestions for must-visit restaurants, bakeries, and local spots that will make your visit even more memorable.
To reserve your room as part of our block, make sure you book via this link.
If you choose to stay elsewhere in Chicago, please note that it will be your responsibility to meet the group either at the Virgin Hotel or at the designated destinations on time for each event. Our transportation services will only be available for those departing from and returning to the Virgin Hotel, so staying in our group hotel is the most convenient option to fully enjoy the experience without the worry of arranging additional logistics.
For those arriving by plane, the easiest way to get to the Virgin Hotel from O’Hare International Airport (ORD) is by car, with a ride-share or taxi taking approximately 30-40 minutes (depending on traffic). If you’re flying into Midway International Airport (MDW), it’s about a 20-30 minute ride into the city. We recommend using ride-sharing services like Uber or Lyft for a convenient and direct journey from the airport to the hotel.
Once you’ve settled in, you can leave the rest of the transportation planning to us. Throughout the getaway, all transportation will be covered, including ride shares and a private charter bus for our group excursions. Whether we’re heading to the Wilton Sweet Studio, exploring Chicago’s best bakeries, or heading out for a dinner cruise, everything has been arranged to ensure that the logistics are stress-free. Your only job is to enjoy the journey and experience everything our baking getaway has to offer!
The cost for Whisked Away Chicago is $2,200.
All Meals
Exclusive Hands-On Classes
Celebrity Meet and Greet
Stress-Free Transportation
Deposit & Payment Details
Refund Policy
Transfers and Resales
If you find you are unable to attend after signing up, you may transfer or resell your spot to another participant. Please contact us at hello@thebakefest.com for help facilitating the transfer. We’ll guide you through the process and ensure everything is taken care of.
Trip Insurance Recommendations
We highly recommend purchasing trip insurance to protect your investment. Trip insurance can help cover unexpected cancellations, medical emergencies, or travel disruptions that may affect your participation in the getaway.
How to Purchase Trip Insurance
Recommended Providers
For more details or to purchase trip insurance, you can visit the provider’s website directly, or use comparison sites to help ensure you get the coverage that best fits your needs. If you have any questions or need assistance, feel free to reach out to us at hello@thebakefest.com.
The getaway will take place from May 2-4, 2025. We’ll meet in the lobby of the Virgin Hotel at 5:45 PM on Friday, May 2nd, and our activities will conclude by 5 PM on Sunday, May 4th. If you are leaving Sunday evening, you will need to check out of the hotel earlier in the day, but the hotel can hold your bags while we finish up our activities.
We are keeping this event intimate, with a cap of 40 participants. This small group size ensures a personalized and engaging experience for everyone.
Absolutely! This getaway is designed for bakers of all skill levels, whether you’re just getting started or are an advanced baker looking to refine your techniques. We plan to split some group classes by skill level based on who signs up, so everyone has an experience that matches their comfort level.
Yes, we require a minimum of 15 participants for the getaway to proceed. If we do not reach this minimum by the designated date, we will cancel the getaway and provide a full refund to all who have signed up. We recommend booking early to help ensure the event takes place and to secure your spot!
No, airport transfer is not included. Participants will need to arrange their own transportation to the Virgin Hotel.
If you book through our reserved room block at the Virgin Hotel Chicago, you will enjoy:
Yes, you are welcome to stay elsewhere. However, please note that if you choose to do so, it will be your responsibility to meet the group at the Virgin Hotel or at our designated destinations on time. All getaway transportation will depart from and return to the Virgin Hotel.
Yes, parking is available at the hotel for $79 per night, which includes in and out privileges.
The getaway package includes:
Yes, drinks will be included during both the Friday night Welcome Dinner and the Saturday dinner cruise. Drinks during other activities, however, will need to be purchased separately.
Yes, there will be parts of the getaway where we split the group into two smaller groups. If you would like to stay with a specific person, we are happy to accommodate this—just let us know during the onboarding process.
There will be some walking involved, especially during the bakery tours, but the exact amount may vary. If you have concerns about mobility, please let us know, and we can provide more details as they become available.
More information will be coming soon.
The deposit is non-refundable. The final payment is refundable until March 31st. We highly recommend purchasing trip insurance to cover unforeseen changes in your plans.
Yes, participants can transfer or resell their spot if they are unable to attend. Please let us know if this situation arises, and we will help facilitate the transfer.
We will send a detailed packing list closer to the event to help you prepare. Plan to bring comfortable clothing for baking, casual attire for our group activities, and comfortable shoes for the bakery tours. We’ll get more dressed up for the welcome dinner and our dinner cruise.
The getaway weekend will be jam-packed with activities, so there won’t be much structured free time. However, if you would like to explore Chicago on your own, we suggest arriving earlier on Friday or extending your stay into Monday to make the most of your trip.
Privacy Policy | Copyright © 2020-2025 The Bake Fest, LLC. All rights reserved.