By Andi Anderson
Dianna Wara, a 61-year-old baker from Washington, has established herself as one of the top bakers in Illinois after winning an impressive 88 awards at the 2024 Illinois State Fair. Competing in the fair’s culinary competitions for over 20 years, this year marked her most successful performance yet.
Wara submitted 100 entries, which included a variety of breads, cakes, cookies, candies, and more, and she secured first place in 46 different categories. “I was thrilled,” Wara said. “The fair only has eight divisions of baking, plus canning, but I managed to earn five grand champion awards.”
Baking is a daily commitment for Wara, who spends between eight to 12 hours in her kitchen perfecting her recipes. Despite not working for a bakery, Wara treats her craft with the dedication of a full-time job. “It’s a lot of perseverance, a lot of practice. It’s a lot of loving what you’re doing,” she explained.
Wara’s preparation for the fair begins in January, as she starts developing her recipes. By July, she begins the actual baking process, leading up to the first week of August when she presents her creations at the fair.
Her passion for baking began in childhood, inspired by her mother, who often made pies for her father. Wara learned the basics using leftover pie crust, sparking a lifelong love for the kitchen.
Looking ahead, Wara has ambitious goals. She hopes to appear on a baking TV show, start a food truck, and teach children how to bake. “That’s how you get your notoriety. That’s how you know that you are the best among the best in Illinois,” Wara said. “It’s important to me because I strive to be the best that I can be.”
Wara’s success at the Illinois State Fair is a testament to her dedication, skill, and passion for baking. Her achievements have solidified her reputation as one of the state’s top bakers, and she shows no signs of slowing down.
Photo Credit: illinois-state-fair
Categories: Illinois, General