Chico Community Gingerbread House Contest & Showcase
Get ready to deck the halls (and your gingerbread) for Chico’s newest and sweetest holiday tradition! Whether you’re a first-time baker or a seasoned gingerbread architect, we welcome you to create, display, and compete for fun, bragging rights, and festive cheer.
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
Entry Delivery Location: monca (900 Esplanade, Chico, CA)
Eligibility: All are welcome – individuals, families, schools, clubs, and businesses
Categories:
Child: Ages 5–8*
Youth: Ages 9–12*
Teen: Ages 13–17
Adult: Ages 18+
Professional
Please Note: Each entry must be accompanied by a brief description of your gingerbread creation, including inspiration and notable details (50–100 words).
*Parents can help with up to 25% of construction.
TIMELINE
November 1–20: Online entries accepted
Friday, December 5 from 11AM – 5PM: Entry drop-off at monca
Friday, December 5 from 5:30PM – 6:30PM: Judging
Saturday, December 6: Houses on display at monca for public viewing
Monday, December 8: Top 15-20 entries delivered to participating downtown stores for public display
Friday, December 19: Public voting end and houses returned to monca
Saturday, December 20 from 3-4PM: Celebration & Awards Ceremonyouses available for pick-up
GENERAL RULES & GUIDELINES
1. Edible Construction: At least 85% of the house must be edible and contain gingerbread (candy, cookies, icing, pretzels, etc.). Non-edible items may be used for structure/support but should be minimal and not visible.
2. Base Size: Base must not exceed 18" x 18."
3. Stability: Structures must be secure and able to move without falling apart.
4. Original Work: Entries must be your own creation – kits are allowed but must be creatively modified.
5. Theme: Holiday/Winter theme encouraged, but not required.
6. Identification: Your name and entry category must be attached to the underside of your base.
7. Judging Criteria: creativity, overall appearance, difficulty, and execution.
8. Pickup: Any houses not picked up by the designated time on December 21, 2025 will be discarded.
JUDGING & AWARDS
A panel of judges will award “Best in Category” for each age group, as well as “Best Overall.” The public will also have a chance to vote for the “People’s Choice Award” through participating downtown stores.
Please fill out this Google Form to enter into the contest. Entries will be considered only when the $20 submission fee is paid.
If you or someone you know is interested in displaying a completed gingerbread house in your Downtown Chico business, please fill out this Google form. No guarantees that your business will be accepted as a host location. We appreciate your participation!
