Just 4 Kids Cookie Contest draws high number of participants at Alaska State Fair

PALMER — Over a dozen Alaskan children participated in the Alaska State Fair's annual Just 4 Kids Cookie Contest within the Hoskins Exhibits building Friday, Aug. 25.

A total of 15 young chefs from across the state entered the 2023 competition. They were required to use ingredients related to this Fair's yearly theme, "Beyond the Mountains."

Cookies came in all colors, shapes, and sizes. Each entry offered its own unique flavor and style.

8 year old Anchorage contestant Kori Mattzela won this year's competition with her entry titled, "Gnomming Beyond the Mountains."

"It's fun," Kori said.

Kori's parents Matt and Lacey were very proud of their daughter's accomplishment.

"She worked really hard," Matt said.

Lacey said that Kori has wanted to enter a cooking contest since she was three years old.

"We're pretty excited," Lacey said.

Matt said that Kori is always baking at home. He said she's very creative and enthusiastic with her efforts, and her catchphrase is, "I have an idea." He said this contest is a great opportunity for children who are interested in baking.

"I think it's fantastic. It gives them something to look forward to, something to try out," Matt said.

Mat-Su Borough Mayor Edna DeVries was one of three judges in this year's contest.

"I think it was outstanding, what a variety," DeVries said.

Anne Marie Svedin, Hoskins Exhibits contest coordinator was pleased with how everything went. She said it's always a joy to witness so much young local talent.

"It's fantastic. Kids have great creativity. They love making things," Svedin said. "They're always phenomenal. What they come up with is really interesting and cool."

The Just 4 Kids Cookie Contest was one of several culinary challenges available to Fairgoers this year. The names of the winners from each competition can be viewed inside the Hoskins building during operating hours through the rest of the 2023 season.

For more information, visit alaskastatefair.org.

Contact Mat-Su Valley Frontiersman reporter Jacob Mann at jacob.mann@frontiersman.com