Sugar, spice, and plenty of icing – nothing captures the holiday spirit quite like gingerbread. Across the country, bakers and artists turn flour and frosting into elaborate creations, from cookie-sized cottages to life-sized landmarks.
Cities across the country go all out with festivals, competitions, and family-friendly workshops that make the humble gingerbread house a centerpiece of seasonal fun. Whether you’re dreaming of Bavarian-style villages, coastal Christmas cheer, or sweet contests with serious bragging rights, these gingerbread events are worth marking on your calendar.
National Gingerbread House Competition – Asheville, NC
Dubbed the “Super Bowl of pastry architecture,” the National Gingerbread House Competition draws entrants from across the nation to the Omni Grove Park Inn. On November 17, judges award more than $40,000 in prizes across multiple age categories, recognizing jaw-dropping edible artistry that must be seen to be believed. From towering castles to whimsical candy scenes, you’ll marvel at the astounding talent of the icing architects.
The public display runs November 18 through January 4, filling the resort’s halls with sugar-sculpted masterpieces. There’s more – carolers, roaring fireplaces, and festive décor set the stage for an unforgettable holiday outing.
Even if you can’t attend, follow along with the “12 Days of Gingerbread” on social media and join in the fun from afar. Asheville turns a beloved holiday pastime into a dazzling national spectacle, perfect to pair with a trip to the Biltmore Estate or downtown’s thriving food scene.
Festival of Gingerbread – Fort Wayne, IN
With its blend of tradition and community spirit, the Festival of Gingerbread is one of Indiana’s sweetest holiday traditions and a perfect downtown stop for families seeking festive fun. Fort Wayne’s historic city hall transforms into a frosted wonderland during this annual festival. Each year, more than 100 edible creations fill the 19th-century rotunda, ranging from classic cottages to creative themed designs. Past displays have included trains, fairy-tale castles, and even sports arenas crafted entirely from candy and icing.
The festival offers more than just eye candy. Bring the family and enjoy weekend science demonstrations, free admission nights, and visits from Santa Claus. Local bakers, school groups, and community organizations all contribute entries, giving the display a homegrown feel.
Waelderhaus Annual Gingerbread Festival – Kohler, WI
Kohler’s Waelderhaus offers one of the Midwest’s most charming gingerbread events – nearly 60 community-made pieces fill the timber-framed, Austrian-style cultural center, creating a warm and cozy holiday atmosphere. Admission is free, making this an affordable outing for families, students, and travelers exploring Wisconsin’s holiday offerings.
With its European architecture and generous spirit, the Waelderhaus Gingerbread Festival feels like stepping into an alpine holiday postcard, gumdrops and all. Vote for your favorite creations, with proceeds going toward student art scholarships. Drop in on the weekend to catch one of the choir performances, filling the historic hall with carols to complement the sweet displays. Running from November 28 to December 30, this long-standing festival highlights both creativity and community.
Gingerbread Competition & Display – Peddler’s Village, Lahaska, PA
Peddler’s Village in Bucks County is already known for its quaint shops and festive lights, but the annual gingerbread competition makes it even more magical. Starting November 14, more than 100 whimsical houses appear throughout the village, often taking the form of storybook characters, landmarks, or imaginative candy scenes. Check out all the exhibits and cast your vote to help crown a winner.
Spend time soaking in the village’s holiday atmosphere, where a million twinkling lights line cobblestone walkways. Between browsing boutique shops and grabbing seasonal treats, make sure to stop at the bakery for warm apple-cider doughnuts – a local favorite.
Open until January 17, the gingerbread showcase provides plenty of time to visit. You won’t regret taking this festive day trip that blends small-town charm, tasty traditions, and a dash of competition in one of Pennsylvania’s most beloved holiday destinations.
Crystal Coast Gingerbread Festival – Morehead City, NC
Morehead City brings a seaside spin to holiday fun with its annual Crystal Coast Gingerbread Festival, set for December 12–14 in 2025. Alongside the competition displays, the event embraces the region’s nautical character with crab-pot Christmas trees and coastal themes, a unique holiday experience that blends sweet traditions with oceanfront flair.
Find plenty of kid-friendly fun, from face painting to a build-your-own gingerbread workshop. Score sugary seasonal treats at the festival’s Sweet Shop (proceeds support the local hospice house), then take a short drive to Beaufort’s twinkling boat parade, pairing two celebrations in one festive trip.
With its combination of spirit and scenery, the Crystal Coast Gingerbread Festival offers a holiday experience that’s equal measures of heartwarming and unique.
Village of Lights: Christmastown Gingerbread Exhibition – Leavenworth, WA
Leavenworth, Washington, already dazzles with its half-million holiday lights, but the Christmastown celebration adds an irresistible element. From November 28 through December 24, the Festhalle hosts an annual gingerbread exhibition showcasing whimsical creations made by local bakers and artisans.
Visitors can also enjoy kids’ crafts, a story corner, and daily caroling, all within the alpine-style village that glows from morning to night. Outside, snow-dusted peaks and Bavarian façades create the perfect holiday backdrop, while hot cocoa and mulled wine warm up chilly strolls.
Combined with sledding and skiing nearby, Leavenworth’s gingerbread exhibition is part of a larger celebration that makes this mountain town one of the most magical Christmas destinations in the country.
