Gingerbread Contest Rules & Guidelines — 2026
Dec. 5–Jan. 2
Theme: “Let’s Celebrate! Winter Wonders & Holiday Traditions” (Entries due to Chaffee Dec. 2 & 3)
The Chaffee Art Center is excited to announce the dates for the 2026 Gingerbread Contest! Interested bakers, schools, organizations, businesses, families, individuals, and young people are invited to submit their imaginative gingerbread creations. Entries should pre-register.
Looking ahead to the 2026 Holiday Season and our next Gingerbread Contest that opens Dec. 5, we have lots of surprises in store! The contest theme “Let’s Celebrate! Winter Wonders & Holiday Traditions” will carry over to other festivities as we plan activities all season long with cookies, carols, and more.
BIG NEWS! We plan to expand on our Annual Gingerbread Contest! We will still have the same contest rules and guidelines for our traditional Annual Gingerbread Contest as in the past with bigger prize awards.
New! There will be other options added to encourage more participation to include kits and holiday cakes all with their own special gallery set up.
Keep watching for more details..www.chaffeeartcenter.org and the Chaffee Art Center Facebook page. Also check them for updates and classes or 802.775.0356, [email protected], stop in to the Chaffee Art Center at 16 South Main Street in Rutland, VT.
All entries must be delivered to the Chaffee Art Center on either Wednesday, Dec. 2 (3–5pm), OR Thursday, Dec. 3 (10am–12pm), or by appointment. The gingerbread creations will be on display in our historic 1890’s mansion from the Gingerbread Showcase Reception on Dec. 5, 12–2pm until Jan. 32 Theme: “heART-ful”.
Awards in a variety of categories for People’s Choice!
Happy Baking!