Columbia Heights Day festival offers something for everyone

While judges munched on pies and cupcakes topped with everything from slices of lime and mint to raspberries and bacon, children -- and even adults -- gathered around a white picket fence to pet and take pictures with Aladdin, a 3-year-old camel.

"Go on and kiss her a little bit," said one man, egging on the trainer.

Douglas Malick moved in close, and Aladdin kissed him on the lips.

In another tent for children, where guitar lessons and face painting were being offered, Antonio Hawley, 7, and Malakye Hawley, 6, carefully spread strawberry icing over sugar cookies.

Malakye finished with the strawberry icing, then scooped peanut butter chips over the cookie. But he wasn't done yet. He spread vanilla frosting, then some chocolate.

"When are you going to start eating it?" asked his father, Greg.

Malakye took a large bite of his creation. On his face, there was a little strawberry icing, a trace of vanilla and a big grin.