Coupe du monde de la Patisserie: the World Pastry Cup Festival

If you've ever had an authentic French pain au chocolat (chocolate croissant), you can appreciate the skill and craftsmanship it takes to create the world's most delicious pastries, every day! Freshness, flavor and texture are incredibly important in this art and tradition. It’s a known fact that the French are masters at the art of pastry making and therefore only fitting that the Pastry Cup is held in Lyon, France.

Celebrating its 20^th anniversary this year (2009), the World Pastry Cup, is one of the most anticipated festivals of its kind. Considered to be the Oscars of the pastry world (and with almost as much press coverage), this prestigious event brings together the world's most inspired dessert experts and tests their skills in a demanding head to head competition. Le Coupe de Monde de la Patisserie was established by Gabriel Paillasson in 1989. Since its inaugural year, the number of participating countries has doubled, with 22 being presented in 2009.

Each country is represented by three experts in their field; a pastry chef, chocolate maker and an ice specialist. Technical, artistic and performance skills are put to the test. At the end of a rigorous 9 hour live challenge, teams are required to complete a set number of fruit, ice and chocolate desserts.

The International Organizing Committee, which organizes and judges the event, is made up of 21 pastry chefs, most holding the title of Best Craftsmen of France. Past winners have included Belgium, Italy, the United States and Japan. France took first prize on five separate occasions. The stakes are high for this prestigious and internationally recognized prize. Other affiliated competitions include Copa Azteca, held every two-year in Mexico and Asian Pastry Cup in Singapore.

Imagine three full days of handcrafted pastry, glorious chocolate and mouthwatering desserts in beautiful Lyon in the Rhone-Alpes,France. You'll have to taste it to believe it. For the majority of us who likely won't have the opportunity to attend this event, make sure to travel to France sometime soon. There, you'll find no shortage of delicious pastries at every turn. Chocolate croissants the world over just don't compare to an authentic French pain au chocolat.

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