2026 Gingerbread Competition
Build something sweet!
Create a tropical-inspired gingerbread house and have your work displayed at Cleveland Botanical Garden during Tropical Holiday, presented by JPMorganChase.
Participants of all skill levels are welcome, from young builders to families and adults. Visitor voting will determine the Best in Show winners in each category.
Why Participate?
- Show off your gingerbread creation at Cleveland Botanical Garden during Tropical Holiday
- Compete for visitor-voted Best in Show awards
- Receive two complimentary Tropical Holiday admission tickets
- Chance to win a Holden Forests & Gardens Family Membership or a gift card
Competition Categories
Youth Division Ages 5-17
Adult/Family Division Adults 18+ or collaborative family/group entries
Prizes
1st Place One-year Holden Forests & Gardens Family Membership
2nd Place $100 Holden Forests & Gardens Gift Card redeemable for tickets, classes, events, or purchases in the Garden Store
Chosen by Tropical Holiday visitors
Important Dates
- Registration Deadline: November 8, 2026
- House Drop-Off: November 17-18, 2026, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.
- Public Display: November 21, 2026-January 3, 2027
- Winners Announced: December 26, 2026
- Pick-Up Day: January 4, 2027, 8 a.m.-Noon
Theme Inspiration
This year, the competition is going tropical…
- Tropical islands
- Palm trees and lush plants
- Beach scenes
- Exotic wildlife
- Colorful holiday celebrations
Entry Requirements
- One entry per household
- Houses must be mounted on a flat, decorated base (preferably made of 1/4-3/4″ plywood)
- Base size must be between 10″×10″ and 15″×24″
- Register using link below
- Drop-off form must accompany your submission
FAQ
Do I need to be an experienced baker?
No. Builders of all experience levels are welcome.
Can families work together on one house?
Yes. Family and group entries should register in the Adult/Family category.
Will I get tickets to Tropical Holiday?
Each gingerbread house entry receives two complimentary general admission tickets valid through January 3, 2027.
Can I pick up my house after the exhibition?
Yes, but houses not picked up by the designated deadline will be discarded.
Ready to show off your gingerbread skills?
Join Cleveland Botanical Garden’s Tropical Holiday Gingerbread Competition and share your creativity with thousands of Garden visitors this holiday season.
register now
