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A Sweet Holiday Tradition Returns: The 11th Annual Hudson Valley Gingerbread Competition Brings Christmas Magic to Life
There is something magical about the holiday season, and few things capture that feeling quite like the smell of gingerbread, twinkling Christmas lights, festive music, and beautifully decorated holiday displays. This year, the holiday spirit is getting an extra helping of sweetness as the 11th Annual Hudson Valley Gingerbread Competition returns, bringing together creativity, craftsmanship, and family-friendly entertainment for a celebration filled with Christmas charm.
Visitors will have the opportunity to marvel at more than 40 incredible gingerbread creations, each competing for top honors. From imaginative designs to impressive architectural details, these edible masterpieces promise to showcase just how far creativity can go with gingerbread, icing, candy, and a little holiday imagination.
But the excitement doesn't stop with the competition. Guests attending the celebration will also have the opportunity to vote for their favorite creation, making everyone part of the festivities. More Than Just a Gingerbread Competition
More Than Just a Gingerbread Competition
Set inside a beautifully decorated Victorian castle, the event promises an atmosphere straight out of a Christmas storybook. Families can enjoy holiday music, seasonal activities, and special opportunities to take photographs with Mr. and Mrs. Claus.
Whether you're visiting to admire the gingerbread craftsmanship, spend time with family, or simply soak up the holiday atmosphere, there will be plenty of reasons to make a day of it.
The competition also offers an opportunity for creative bakers and builders to participate. Submissions are now being accepted for the 11th Annual Hudson Valley Gingerbread Competition. Those interested in entering should make sure their completed forms are submitted by 5 p.m. on November 6, 2026, or until all available spaces have been filled.
A Full Day of Holiday Entertainment
The celebration features activities throughout the day, giving visitors plenty of opportunities to enjoy the holiday season.
Event Schedule
Activity | Time |
Holiday Market & Gift Shop | 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. |
Ice Skate Session | 9:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. |
Competitor Voting | 10:20 a.m. – 10:45 a.m. |
Mimosa & Bloody Mary Bar | 11:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. |
Pictures with Mr. & Mrs. Claus | 12 p.m. – 1 p.m. |
Public Viewing & Voting | 12:30 p.m. – 3:30 p.m. |
Awards Ceremony | 4 p.m. |
Campfire with S'mores | 4:30 p.m. – 5:30 p.m. |
Hanukkah Celebration | 5 p.m. |
Winter Lights | 5 p.m. – 9 p.m. |
Marshmallow Tower Challenge | 7:30 p.m. |
The holiday market and gift shop will give visitors an opportunity to browse seasonal merchandise and find special gifts. The full Gift Shop will remain open until 11 p.m.
Those looking to get out on the ice can enjoy a skating session from 9:30 a.m. until 12:30 p.m. Visitors should remember to sign in at the Skate Shop before entering the rink.
Later in the morning, a pop-up Mimosa and Bloody Mary Bar will be available from 11:30 a.m. until 2:30 p.m., adding another festive option for adult guests.
Santa, S'mores, Winter Lights and More!
One of the highlights for younger visitors will undoubtedly be the opportunity to meet Mr. and Mrs. Claus. Santa photo opportunities are scheduled from noon until 1 p.m., giving families a chance to capture a special holiday memory.
The gingerbread creations will be available for public viewing and voting from 12:30 p.m. until 3:30 p.m. Once everyone has had their chance to cast a vote, anticipation will build toward the 4 p.m. awards ceremony, when the competition's winners will be recognized.
As the afternoon turns into evening, the celebration continues outdoors with a campfire and s'mores from 4:30 p.m. until 5:30 p.m.
The festivities will also recognize Hanukkah with a celebration beginning at 5 p.m. Meanwhile, Winter Lights will illuminate the evening from 5 p.m. until 9 p.m., offering visitors another opportunity to enjoy the beautifully decorated surroundings.
For those who enjoy a little friendly competition, a Marshmallow Tower Challenge is scheduled for 7:30 p.m., bringing a playful twist to the evening's activities.
A Holiday Tradition Worth Celebrating
The 11th Annual Hudson Valley Gingerbread Competition is more than a showcase of holiday baking. It is a celebration of imagination, community, tradition, and the excitement that makes this time of year so special.
With more than 40 gingerbread creations, opportunities to vote, visits with Santa, ice skating, holiday shopping, winter lights, and activities for all ages, the event offers something for everyone.
Whether you come for the gingerbread masterpieces, the festive atmosphere, or the chance to create new holiday memories with family and friends, this celebration promises a day filled with seasonal magic.
One thing is certain: the competition may be about gingerbread, but the real winner is everyone who gets to experience a little extra holiday magic.
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