Next Food Network Star, Season 6: Behind the Scenes of Episode Two's Finalist Challenges

Food Network's Ace of Cakes host Duff Goldman is the author of this Star Challenge.

Duff's Sweet to Savory Carnival will showcase the finalists' reinvented classic treats for 100 of his closest friends.

The finalists get to enjoy fresh air and sunshine as they prepare their dishes at the Santa Monica Pier and Pacific Park.

A non-sweet interpretation of this dessert fave? Serena takes it on with gusto.

Serena prepares to plate her Cheese Mousse 'Cones.'

The amusements are nice, but the finalists won't have time for rides until the cooking's done!

Festively dressed tables await Duff's guests.

Herb takes a moment to survey his competitors' progress.

Duff's guests begin arriving at the pier.

Paul checks his pasta's consistency.

Can Aarti transform this sweet treat into a delicious, non-dessert version?

Aarti tends her skillet with determined concentration.

Will Dzintra's three-pronged approach to her dish spell trouble with the judges?

Candied apples: Brianna's "Sweet to Savory" challenge.

Brianna hurries to finish her candied apple-inspired meatballs.

Trapeze artists perform overhead while the Star finalists stage their own performances.

DAS gets the 'lemon' into his Lemon Pepper Chicken Wings.

From L to R: Serena, DAS, Brianna and Aria take a quick photo-op break.

The guests start visiting with the finalists and sampling their savory offerings.

Has Doreen's Root Beer Pulled Pork had enough time to get melt-in-your-mouth tender?

Tom takes a moment to reflect. (How is he always so chill?)

Will Aria's savory meatball creation score her another sweet victory?

Aarti banters with a guest as she prepares a plate.

Duff (far left) joins Bobby, Bob and Susie at the on-site Selection Committee table for the judging.