Enter the Festivities: 2026 National Gingerbread House Competition Kicks Off in Asheville

The 2026 National Gingerbread House Competition: A Festive Tradition

As the holiday season approaches, Asheville, North Carolina, prepares to welcome thousands of visitors for the beloved National Gingerbread House Competition. This year marks the 34th annual occurrence of the event, held at the enchanting Omni Grove Park Inn & Spa, scheduled for Monday, November 16, 2026.

Every year, this competition becomes a focal point for families and baking enthusiasts, celebrating creativity through edible art. Entries are now open, and bakers from all over the country can submit their culinary masterpieces until November 9. Expect a delightful array of gingerbread creations, from whimsical winter cottages to architecturally elaborate designs that reflect the makers' phenomenal craftsmanship.

This year's competition introduces two new culinary experts to the judging panel, bringing a wealth of experience in pastry art and structural design. Sasha Aleksandra Nary, known for her skills as a Le Cordon Bleu Paris-certified pastry chef and acclaimed confectionery artist, joins Rabiha Sami, an award-winning cookie artist recognized for her participation in Food Network's "Christmas Cookie Challenge.” These judges promise to elevate the scrutiny of the creations, ensuring that only the finest go on to compete for the top honors.

Bethany Cobb, the Director of Marketing at the resort, articulated the essence of the competition perfectly: "Part of what makes this competition so special is that it reminds us to slow down and reconnect with the traditions we love." Many participants invest countless hours into transforming basic ingredients like gingerbread and candy into breathtaking creations, all while families gather year after year, creating cherished memories amidst the competition’s festivities.

The National Gingerbread House Competition began humbly in 1992 with local participants, but it has blossomed into a major event that attracts professional chefs, amateur bakers, couples and families, fostering a community spirit. Over three decades, it has received thousands of entries from all around the United States and attracted more than 20,000 visitors to Asheville each year.

For the 2026 event, registration will take place on the weekend of November 14 and 15, leading into the judging round and awards ceremony on November 16. While the judging ceremony will be exclusive to contestants and their families, the gingerbread display will be open to the public starting November 17 and will remain available for viewing until January 3, 2027.

For those who have attended the gingerbread display before, it has become a nostalgic part of many holiday traditions. Cobb emphasizes, "Whether it’s their first visit or an annual tradition, there’s something magical about seeing hundreds of handcrafted gingerbread creations in the beautifully decorated setting of the resort during the holidays."

Additionally, during the months of October through December, The Omni Grove Park Inn & Spa gives back to the local Buncombe County community by donating a portion of parking proceeds to support local nonprofit organizations, having contributed more than $1.4 million since 2013 through this initiative.

For more information regarding the 2026 National Gingerbread House Competition, please visit the official website. High-resolution images and footage from past competitions are also accessible for those interested. Should you wish to reserve a spot at the Omni Grove Park Inn & Spa, simply call (800) 438-5800 or visit their website for bookings.

Located in the serene Blue Ridge Mountains, the Omni Grove Park Inn & Spa offers a unique escape for modern travelers. Opened in 1913, this award-winning resort combines historical elegance with contemporary luxury, making it suitable for meetings, weddings, and special events, along with providing a range of culinary experiences.

In the spirit of the season, the National Gingerbread House Competition not only showcases the talent of bakers but also solidifies its place as a cherished holiday tradition in Asheville, inspiring love for creativity and community throughout the years.