By Karon Warren
Building gingerbread houses at your family dining table remains a fun and tasty way to celebrate the holidays each year. But at the annual National Gingerbread House Competition in Asheville, N.C., this family tradition reaches new heights of creativity. Bakers, artists and creators from across the country come together to craft everything from whimsical winter cottages to storybook villages to intricate architectural designs and everything in between.
In 2025, there were 235 entries representing 25 states, resulting in an amazing display of these edible works of art. This year’s event takes place at the Omni Grove Park Inn from Nov. 14 to Nov. 16, and the official Gingerbread display opens to hotel guests on Nov. 17.
In fact, guests of the Omni Grove Park Inn can immerse themselves in the experience throughout November and December. “We have the Gingerbread Holiday Package available for guests to enhance their holiday visit,” said Caroline Ruthven, senior brand communications and events manager. “This package includes daily breakfast, a holiday gingerbread cookie, a holiday sweet treat from our marketplace and parking.” This particular package is available to guests staying from Nov. 15 through Dec. 30 and can be found at Omni Hotels & Resorts’ website.
Even visitors not staying at the Omni Grove Park Inn can still check out the National Gingerbread House Competition display. “We display every piece that was entered into the competition,” Ruthven said. “The official 2026 Gingerbread display begins on Tuesday, Nov. 17, and will continue through Sunday, Jan. 3, 2027. Please visit the Omni Grove Park Inn’s Gingerbread Information page to check parking availability and holiday exclusions.”
In addition to the National Gingerbread House Competition, visitors to the Omni Grove Park Inn will also enjoy the property’s holiday transformation into a festive winter wonderland, complete with more than 80 illuminated trees and spectacular holiday decorations. It could be the start of a new family tradition for you and your loved ones!
