EPHRAIM — Have you been training all year for one of the messiest — and most entertaining — traditions of the fair season?

How fast can a cream pie be eaten with no hands?

That question will be answered once again this summer during the annual pie-eating contest at the Sanpete County Fair, where competitors of all ages will gather at the fair pavilion for a chance at trophies, bragging rights and plenty of whipped-cream-covered fun.

The contest is scheduled for Saturday afternoon at 2 p.m. at the pavilion during the fair, held each year in Ephraim. Spectators are encouraged to come cheer on contestants as they race to finish a full cream pie — without using their hands.

The event has become a favorite among fairgoers, drawing crowds who enjoy watching participants dive face-first into chocolate or vanilla pies while racing the clock and their competitors.

Three Age Divisions

The contest is open to a wide range of participants, with three divisions designed to give everyone a fair shot at victory:

• 10 years old and younger
• 11-15 years old
• 16 years old and older

First-place winners in each age group will receive trophies along with the coveted bragging rights that come with being the fastest pie eater at the fair.

Organizers say the contest is all about fun and participation, and contestants often leave the stage laughing — and covered in pie filling.

How to Enter

Those interested in participating must pre-register for the contest. When signing up, contestants should provide their name and age and choose their pie flavor — either chocolate or vanilla.

Pre-registration will be announced soon and organizers encourage participants to sign up early to guarantee a spot in the competition.

Registered contestants should arrive at the fair pavilion by 1:45 p.m. on the day of the contest to check in before the event begins.

A Fair Tradition

The pie-eating contest is one of many activities that bring families and visitors together during the Sanpete County Fair. From livestock shows and carnival rides to live entertainment and food vendors, the fair offers something for everyone.

But few events draw quite as many laughs as watching determined contestants attempt to finish a pie as quickly as possible without using their hands.

Whether you’re planning to compete or simply want to watch the action, organizers say the event promises to be one of the most entertaining moments of the fair.

So the real question remains: Have you been practicing?

If so, the Sanpete County Fair pie-eating contest might be your moment to shine — or at least get a little messy.

Participants and spectators are invited to gather at the pavilion Saturday afternoon at 2 p.m. for the competition. Contestants should remember to arrive by 1:45 p.m. for check-in.