The National Gingerbread Competition
The Omni Grove Park Inn & Spa revives the cherished National Gingerbread House Competition for 2026. This spectacular event showcases over 30 years of tradition, featuring incredible edible gingerbread houses created by participants across four categories. Visitors can admire the intricate designs and artistry, with houses judged by esteemed culinary and arts professionals. The competition offers over $40,000 in prizes, making it a must-see holiday attraction.
What to Expect
Revived 30+ year tradition of the National Gingerbread House Competition
Event Details
Duration
Varies by day and guest status
Ages
All ages
Timed Entry
No
Organizer
The Omni Grove Park Inn & Spa
Food & Drink
Food and beverage options may be available at the resort.
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Families, art enthusiasts, holiday spectacle
Vibe
Festive, creative, traditional
Energy Level
Low to medium
Budget
$$
Photo Friendly
Weather Sensitivity
Low
Know Before You Go
- Tickets: $$ – Get tickets
- Parking: Self-park: $30, Valet: $40. Parking benefits local nonprofits.
- Pets: Resort guests' registered pets only
Tips & Advice
- Plan your visit for Sundays after 6 p.m. or Monday-Thursday for the best chance for non-guests to view the gingerbread displays, as Fridays and Saturdays are reserved for resort guests and dining reservations.
- Be aware that parking fees apply for non-guests, with self-parking at $30 and valet at $40, and these fees contribute to local nonprofits.
- Check the event's specific closure dates in December and on New Year's Day, as these are exceptions to the public viewing schedule.
- Follow the Omni Grove Park Inn on Facebook and Instagram for '12 Days of Gingerbread' updates and behind-the-scenes content if you cannot attend in person.
- Consider making a dining reservation at the resort on a Friday or Saturday if you are not a guest, as this is one of the ways non-guests can access the gingerbread displays on those days.
Special Events & Promotions
- Revival of a 30+ year tradition
- Judging by national food, arts, and media professionals
- Over $40,000 in prizes
- Four competition categories: Adult, Teen, Youth, Child
- Houses must be 75% gingerbread and entirely edible
- Parking benefits local nonprofits
- Follow '12 Days of Gingerbread' on Facebook and Instagram
Quick Actions
Frequently Asked Questions
When can non-guests visit the gingerbread displays?
Non-guests can visit on Sundays after 6 p.m. or Monday-Thursday, subject to parking availability. Fridays and Saturdays are reserved for resort guests and dining reservations.
What are the entry requirements for non-guests?
Non-guests may need to make dining reservations or pay for parking to access the gingerbread displays on certain days.
Are there any age restrictions for the competition categories?
Yes, there are four categories: Adult, Teen, Youth, and Child, indicating age-based divisions for participants.
What is the prize money for the competition?
The competition offers over $40,000 in prizes across all categories.
Can I bring my pet?
Pets are only allowed for resort guests' registered pets. Service animals are typically permitted.
More Christmas Events Near Asheville
More Christmas Events near Asheville
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.