Gingerbread Wonderland
Inspired by the world's largest gingerbread village in Bergen, Norway, this annual display brings together creative creations from both amateur and professional bakers. Visitors can explore an array of sweet structures, including castles, Minnesota landmarks, and pop culture-themed builds. Guests are also invited to participate by voting for their favorites in the People's Choice contest.
What to Expect
Community gingerbread village inspired by Bergen, Norway's Pepperkakebyen.
Event Details
Ages
All ages
Neighborhood
Ventura Village
Timed Entry
Yes
Organizer
Norway House
Food & Drink
The Kaffebar is available during visits, but closes promptly at closing time for guests booked in the final time slot.
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Families and gingerbread enthusiasts
Vibe
Festive and whimsical
Energy Level
Low
Budget
$
Photo Friendly
High
Weather Sensitivity
None
Location
Know Before You Go
- Tickets: Adult $12.00; Child (0-5) $0.00; Child (6-17) $7.00; Member Adult $7.00; Member Child $5.00. – Get tickets
- Hours: Monday–Tuesday 12:00pm-8:00pm; Wednesday–Saturday 10:00am-8:00pm; Sunday 12:00pm-8:00pm.
Tips & Advice
- Book a timed entry slot online before your visit. If the ticketing page gives you trouble on a phone, switch to a computer with Chrome or Firefox.
- If you book the day's final slot, visit the Kaffebar and ALSO Ingebretsen's first, because both close promptly while you can keep enjoying the exhibit.
- Join Norway House as a member before booking your tickets to get discounted admission for both adults and children.
- Leave time for the Saga Center while you're there, because your Gingerbread Wonderland admission covers entry there as well.
- Email info@norwayhouse.org well before your visit if you're bringing a group, because group tours need to be scheduled in advance.
Special Events & Promotions
- This season marks 10 years of the community-built gingerbread town, with new attractions and classes added.
- People's Choice voting runs for the whole exhibit, and the winners are announced on Christmas Eve.
- The celebrity judges' winners are announced on opening day.
- Community Gingerbread House Building Days are part of this season's program.
- Norway House members get discounted admission.
Quick Actions
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I enter my own gingerbread creation?
Yes. Gingerbread Wonderland is open to every baker, young or old and novice to expert, and you don't need Norwegian heritage. You register your build ahead. To be judged by the celebrity judges, a piece must be completely edible apart from lighting and at least 75% gingerbread. Pieces with non-edible parts can still win the People's Choice award.
Can kids enter too?
Yes. The youth categories are Best Emerging Baker (ages 3-7) and Best Youth Baker, split into ages 8-12 and 13-17.
How does People's Choice voting work?
Visitors vote for their favorites for the whole run of the exhibit. The winners are announced on Christmas Eve.
What else does admission include?
Your Gingerbread Wonderland admission also gets you into the Saga Center at Norway House.
Can we bring a group?
Yes. Schedule group tours ahead by emailing info@norwayhouse.org.
More Christmas Events Near Minneapolis
More Christmas Events near Minneapolis
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. Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide and isn't affiliated with the events we list.