Stay a Part of Gingerbread

Competition Entry

This year’s competition celebrates a cherished holiday tradition but also the enduring sense of community that defines it. What began in 1992 as a small local contest has grown into a nationally renowned event, drawing top pastry artists and enthusiastic amateurs alike.

For those that may not travel, “The 12 Days of Gingerbread” showcasing this year’s incredible entries on the hotel’s Facebook and Instagram channels from Dec. 1-12, 2026. Tune in via Facebook (@omnigroveparkinn) & Instagram (@omnigrovepark).

Adult Second Place: Heather Nadeau, Cary, NC, The Birch Mouse Burrow

Adult Third Place: Michael Villella, New York, NY, Wassail Break

Teen First Place: Courtland High School, Spotsylvania, VA, Mosaic Stairway of Ginger

Teen Second Place: Lolajay, Asheville, NC, Santa’s Game Night

Teen Third Place: Emma Rhinehart, Columbia, TN, The Green Jacket & Red Suit

Youth First Place: Bailey Nadeau, Cary, NC, Muddlefoot’s Mushroom Madness

Youth Second Place: Rachel Cope, Asheville, NC, Scooby’s Sleighs

Youth Third Place: Navarra Fritz, Barnardsville, NC, Caterpillar in the Chrysalis

Child First Place: Finley Doyle, Midlothian, VA, Grammy’s Kitchen

Child Second Place: Callie Caldwell, Mooresville, NC, I Spy Gingerbread Candy Factory

Child Third Place: Kindergarten Cookies, Black Mountain, NC, A Christmas Wagon

Grand Prize Winner, Adult: Mary Hulsman, Concord, NC, The Tiny Gnome Builders

Gingerbread Trail of Giving

Alongside the triumphant return of The 2025 National Gingerbread House Competition, we are thrilled to keep The Gingerbread Trail of Giving alive with the help of @karenthibakes, @eboake and our pastry team! Guests and locals alike are invited to explore a series of spectacular gingerbread creations thoughtfully placed throughout the community. Stay tuned for The 2026 Gingerbread Trail of Giving information.

Competition Entry

Gingerbread Trail of Giving

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