Don't believe those false reports that say the cupcake trend is nearing an end. More than 500 sugar addicts are expected at this year's L.A. Cupcake Challenge, which annually invites 20-plus California bakers, bakeries and restaurants from Venice to Apple Valley to compete in the best traditional, original and overall cupcake categories. You can be boring and stick with the classic vanilla, chocolate and red velvet flavors, or sample more unexpected concoctions, including lavender, sweet potato pie, peanut butter and jelly and the poised-to-be classic maple bacon. (Who needs breakfast?) For the $40 ticket price, smuggling is encouraged. So bring Tupperware, boxes or extra-wide purses.

Sat., Feb. 5, 4 p.m., 2011

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