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.
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Plan Your Visit
Website / Tickets
When
Ages
All ages
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.
Going?
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.
Links & Contact
Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide, not the organizer of this event. For tickets, entries, vendor spots or questions, contact the organizer directly through their website.
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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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.