Annual Gingerbread House Competition and Display
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Artistic rendering โ€“ Event may differ

Annual Gingerbread House Competition and Display

Experience the magic of the holidays in Downtown Cary with the Annual Gingerbread House Competition and Display. Local businesses transform into festive galleries, showcasing an array of imaginative gingerbread creations. Whether you're a seasoned baker aiming for top prizes or simply want to spread some holiday cheer, this event offers a delightful way to celebrate the season.

What to Expect

Creative gingerbread house displays throughout Downtown Cary.

Know Before You Go

  • Tickets: FREE โ€“ Get tickets
  • Pets: No pets allowed

Other Christmas Events Near Cary

Local Insight & Ratings

Family Friendly

๐ŸŽ„ ๐ŸŽ„ ๐ŸŽ„ ๐ŸŽ„ ๐ŸŽ„ (5/5)

Best For

Families, bakers, holiday enthusiasts

Vibe

Festive, creative, community-oriented

Energy Level

Low

Budget

$

Photo Friendly

๐Ÿ“ท ๐Ÿ“ท ๐Ÿ“ท ๐Ÿ“ท ๐Ÿ“ท (4/5)

Weather Sensitivity

Low

Special Events & Promotions

  • Grand prize package includes a stay at The Mayton and tickets to the NC Chinese Lantern Festival.
  • Winners receive award ribbons and Cary goodies.
  • Two participation options: Judged Competition Entry and 'Just for Fun' Display Entry.
  • People's Choice award available for both competition and display entries.

Tags

holiday marketfamily friendlycommunity celebrationfestive foodholiday traditionartisanal goodsChristmas marketseasonal activitiesholiday shopping

Featured Video

Location

Downtown Cary
316 N Academy St
Cary, NC
27513

Event Details

Duration

9 days

Ages

All ages

Neighborhood

Downtown Cary

Timed Entry

No

Organizer

Town of Cary

Food & Drink

Food trucks available

Quick Actions

Tips & Advice

  • Plan your stroll through Downtown Cary to visit multiple participating businesses and enjoy the diverse gingerbread creations.
  • Check the official website for a list of participating businesses and their locations before you go to optimize your viewing route.
  • Consider visiting on a weekday evening for a potentially less crowded experience, allowing for a more intimate viewing of the detailed gingerbread houses.
  • If you're participating, ensure you carefully read and adhere to the construction and decoration rules for the competition or display entry.
  • Don't forget to vote for your favorite gingerbread house for the People's Choice award!

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the dates and times for the Gingerbread House Competition and Display?

The event runs from December 6 - 14, 2025. Specific viewing times will depend on the operating hours of the participating downtown businesses.

How can I participate in the gingerbread house event?

There are two ways to participate: enter the judged Competition Entry or the 'Just for Fun' Display Entry. Registration is available online from October 20 - November 23.

Where will the gingerbread houses be displayed?

Gingerbread houses will be displayed at various local businesses throughout Downtown Cary. The winning houses will be showcased at the Cary Arts Center from December 16 - 31.

Are there prizes for the competition?

Yes, the competition offers prizes for winners, including a stay at The Mayton and tickets to the NC Chinese Lantern Festival for the grand prize winner. Award ribbons and Cary goodies are also given.

Is there an entry fee for the competition or display?

The provided information does not specify an entry fee for participation. Registration details and rules are available online.

Always check the official website for the most current information.

We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly.

Contributors & Updates

Last Updated: Oct 30, 2025
Original Submitter: Sep 17, 2025 The Christmas Events Near Me editorial team

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