More than two years into their community-oriented passion project, Ballard residents Paige Stocks and Allison Lazarus are still showing up—rain or shine—to serve their neighbors through Ballard’s own Little Free Bakery.
The project began in early 2023, shortly after Paige spotted a similar concept on Google Maps in Magnolia. “I messaged the woman on Instagram and asked, ‘What is this? What are you doing?’ She explained that she was just giving away baked goods to give back to her community and share her resources. I thought that was so inspiring.”
With that seed of an idea, Paige pitched Allison on bringing something similar to Ballard. The two friends both worked from home and considered themselves “hobby bakers”—they took a pastry class together during the pandemic and still enjoyed experimenting with different recipes. Allison said yes right away, and Ballard’s Little Free Bakery was born.
Today, the Little Free Bakery’s weekly “drops”—with dates and times announced via @littlefreebakeryballard on Instagram—have become a beloved community ritual. Each week, neighbors of all ages line up early to pick up fresh cookies, cakes, tarts, and the occasional homemade dog treat—always given away for free.
Some drops draw dozens; others, over a hundred. And while the treats are what bring people in, the atmosphere plays a role in keeping them coming back. “The community aspect is definitely the most rewarding part,” says Paige.
They greet people by name, ask about hobbies and family, and celebrate milestones. One of their earliest visitors showed up with a newborn baby in tow. “It was her first time out of the house—just to get a cookie!” remembers Allison. “And now she has a second baby!” Paige adds excitedly. “That first one’s probably grabbing their own cookies now.”
To keep the weekly pace manageable, the duo regularly invites guest bakers from the neighborhood to contribute. “That’s been a huge part of what keeps us going,” says Paige. “It’s great for our schedules, and great for building community. People love contributing.” Guests share different specialties, bringing new flavors to the bakery’s weekly offerings. “Vegan, gluten-free, family recipes—we get such a fun variety,” said Allison.
When they’re not in the kitchen, the pair enjoys supporting Ballard’s vibrant food scene. Local favorites include Rosellini’s Fine Cakes and Baked Goods, Rachel’s Bagels, and Mainstay Provisions—home to a vegan brownie that’s become an unexpected favorite. They also keep tabs on bakeries across the city, from Deep Sea Sugar & Salt in Georgetown to Sea Wolf in Fremont and Ben’s Bread in Phinney Ridge.
Still, there’s something unique about what they’ve created right outside their door. In a neighborhood full of excellent food, the Little Free Bakery offers a different kind of sweetness, and solidifies itself as a cherished part of the Ballard community.
Ballard’s Little Free Bakery is located at 9th Ave NW and NW 59th Street. Follow the Little Free Bakery at @littlefreebakeryballard for updates about the bakery’s weekly treat drops.
Photos by Geri Silver
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