The National Gingerbread Competition
Visitors can view an expansive display of whimsical and intricate gingerbread creations exhibited throughout the resort. Every competing entry—from youth bakers to master pastry and confectionery artists—is crafted to be entirely edible and composed of at least 75 percent gingerbread. Guests can stroll through the historic property to admire structural engineering, creative designs, and hand-painted details.
What to Expect
Houses must be 75% gingerbread and entirely edible.
Event Details
Ages
All ages
Timed Entry
No
Organizer
The Omni Grove Park Inn & Spa
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Families and gingerbread-art enthusiasts
Vibe
Festive and creative
Energy Level
Low
Photo Friendly
High
Weather Sensitivity
Low
Know Before You Go
- Parking: Valet and self-parking are available for a fee, and parking money goes to local nonprofits.
- Pets: Only registered pets belonging to resort guests are allowed.
Tips & Advice
- If you're not staying at the resort, come on a Sunday evening or Monday through Thursday, because Fridays and Saturdays are for guests and diners only.
- Book a dining reservation at the resort if a Friday or Saturday visit is your only option, since that gets non-guests in on weekends.
- Weekday entry for non-guests depends on parking, so have a backup day in mind in case the lots are full when you arrive.
- Skip Thanksgiving Day, New Year's Day and December 6, 23, 24, 25, 26, 30 and 31, because the display is closed to the public then.
- Leave your dog at home unless you're a resort guest with a registered pet, since no other pets are allowed.
Special Events & Promotions
- The National Gingerbread Competition returns for 2026, reviving a tradition that has run for more than 30 years.
- This year's judges include pastry chef and author Sasha Aleksandra Nary and Food Network competitor Rabiha Sami.
- If you can't visit, follow the 12 Days of Gingerbread series on the resort's Facebook and Instagram.
Quick Actions
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I see the gingerbread display if I'm not staying at the resort?
Yes. Non-guests can visit on Sunday evenings, or Monday through Thursday during regular resort hours, depending on parking. Fridays and Saturdays are only for resort guests and people with confirmed dining reservations.
Can I bring my dog?
Only registered pets belonging to resort guests are allowed.
Where do I park?
The resort has valet and self-parking, both for a fee. The parking money goes to local nonprofits.
How can I enter the competition?
Fill in the competition entry form. There are four categories: Adult, Teen, Youth and Child. Houses must be at least 75% gingerbread and entirely edible. Child and Youth entrants register on November 14, and Teen and Adult entrants on November 15.
Can the public watch the judging?
No. Judging is closed to the public, and the Awards Ceremony is for contestants and their families. All entries go on display at the resort after judging.
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