A beloved holiday tradition returns with the 17th Annual Gingerbread Celebration and Holiday Market. Bakers enter gingerbread creations and compete for cash prizes, determined by the public and a panel of judges. Admission to see the houses is $1 for adults and free for children which will include one house vote.

All of the houses on display will be available in our online auction to take home as the centerpiece for your holiday season.

The Celebration includes local artisans offering unique, affordable gifts in the Holiday Market from local artisans, gingerbread bake sale, and children’s activities.

2025 Best of Show Winner
“Silent Night”
Dawn & Garry Bollinger

Enter your own masterpiece!

The Gingerbread Celebration competition is open to families, individuals, schools, and nonprofits for a chance to win cash prizes, and businesses and restaurants are encouraged to enter for the coveted Ginger Trophy!

2026 Awards

A panel of judges will select:

  • Best of Show ($750)
  • Most Original Concept ($200)
  • Junior Baker Award for under age 14 ($200)

People will vote with their dollars to award:

  • People’s Choice ($500)
  • Best School/Nonprofit ($250)
  • Best Business (Ginger Trophy)
Download an Entry Form Online Entry Form

ENTRY GUIDELINES

  • Entry forms must be received at the ACAC by Mon., Nov. 30, 2026. Entries exceeding size limits or not conforming to the rules will be ineligible for prizes.
  • Entries must be made primarily of gingerbread. All decorations from the base up must be edible and are not limited to sweets.
  • Entries must be delivered to the Adams County Arts Council Arts Education Center, 125 South Washington St., Gettysburg on Wednesday, Dec. 2, between 11 am and 7 pm
  • Businesses must submit a $25 entry fee and will compete for the Ginger Trophy. There is no fee for other entries.
  • Entire entry must be presented on a solid base no larger than 24 inches by 24 inches. Please add feet under the base, raising it slightly for ease of placement, and attach a copy of your entry form to base.
  • Electricity is not provided but battery powered lighting or enhancement is acceptable.
  • Entries become property of Adams County Arts Council and will be available for online auction throughout the weekend.
  • Entries will be photographed for online display and promotional purposes.
  • Awards presentation and photo will take place at 2 pm on Sunday, December 6 at ACAC. Please plan to attend.

THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS!

Silver Sponsors

Bronze Sponsors