What is the Port Gingerbread Festival?

Now in its second year, the Port Gingerbread Festival is a contest and public exhibition of artistic gingerbread creations made by people of all ages. From “traditional” gingerbread houses to ships, churches, lighthouses, carriages or castles – the possibilities are endless! 

Is the Festival a Fundraiser?

Yes! It’s creativity for a cause! The proceeds of the Port Gingerbread Festival will benefit Nourishing the North Shore (www.nourishingthenorthshore.org) a local nonprofit dedicated to ensuring equal access to healthy, local food for all members of the North Shore Communities in a manner that builds community, fosters connection, and promotes dignity and self-reliance.

Who Can Participate? 

All are welcome to join in this local holiday tradition! Children, families, teens, adults, youth groups, civic and community organizations, and businesses. Choose how you’d like to participate:

• Donate to the Festival – help keep it admission-free with net proceeds to charity (see above)

• Make a gingerbread creation for the contest and exhibition – ENTRY is FREE!

• Volunteer at the exhibition, to welcome visitors, make friends and give back to your community.

• Visit the exhibition – ADMISSION is FREE! Donations are welcome if you’re willing and able.

Inspiration for Gingerbread Creators!

Enter the contest as an individual, or as a family, group, business, non-profit organization, civic group or governmental entity. We expect submissions to be as diverse and unique as their creators! Here are some creation categories to spark your thinking - not limited to these, but food for thought: 

• Art, history & architecture

• Seafarers & travel

• Home sweet home

• The great outdoors

• Food, glorious food!

Finished creations are due at the church hall on December 12. Please see our Create page for contest rules, recipes and resources.