Get ready to sprinkle some holiday magic at the Rippon Lodge Historic Site’s Gingerbread House Contest! We’re calling on bakers, artists, and festive families to share your sweetest creations in this special community event. Whether you’re a seasoned pro, a passionate hobbyist, or building as a family tradition, there’s a category for you: Professional, Amateur, or Family. All entries will be displayed in the beautifully decorated Rippon Lodge, adding extra cheer to our historic holiday season.
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Submission Deadline & Location: Completed entries forms must be submitted to Rippon Lodge Historic Site no later than 5:30pm December 5, 2025.
9. Agreement: By submitting this form, I agree to abide by the competition rules and allow my entry to be displayed by Prince William County Historic Preservation. *This question is required.
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Contest Rules
1. All Gingerbread houses/structure entries must be made with Graham Crackers or kits can be used and must be a recognizable house/structure.
2. All Gingerbread houses/structures must be placed on a sturdy thick cardboard or wood base not to exceed 18”x18”.
3. There are three categories: Professional, Amateur and Family categories. 4. All Gingerbread houses/structures must be sprayed with a sealant to prevent them from spoilage.
5. No artificial materials, such as Styrofoam, are to be used to construct or decorate the house/structure.
6. Decorations, such as paint, ribbon, glitter, figurines, etc. may be used ONLY to decorate your base.
7. A list of materials used to create your Gingerbread house/structure along with a title and a brief description should be submitted with your entry.
8. Completed entries forms must be submitted to Rippon Lodge Historic Site no later than 5:00pm December 5.
9. All Gingerbread houses/structures must be dropped off between 3:00pm to 5:00pm Friday, December 5th at Rippon Lodge. Judging will be in the next week and the winner will be announced by Friday December 12th. Prizes will be awarded during pick up.
10. Items may be picked up Monday, December 15, from 1:00pm to 4:00 p.m. All entries left past 4:00 p.m. will be disposed of.
11. All entries will be judged on the following: overall appearance, creativity, originality and holiday theme.
12. Ages 7+ able to compete