2024 Gingerbread Information

A Twist on Tradition

In the wake of Hurricane Helene, Asheville and our surrounding communities have faced significant hardship. After careful consideration, we have made the difficult decision to cancel the 32nd Annual National Gingerbread House Competition. This was not a choice made lightly, as this cherished event holds a special place in our hearts and has become a beloved holiday tradition for many.

For over three decades, Gingerbread has brought joy, artistry, and wonder to all who gather to experience it. It has become a hallmark of the season. Our valued competitors are truly the heart of this competition. We are saddened that we cannot come together formally this year to honor their ginger-works-of-art, but we eagerly look forward to welcoming them back to the hotel in 2025 to celebrate their creativity and passion once more. The 2025 National Gingerbread House Competition entry form and display viewing information will be available on this page starting July 25, 2025.

Gingerbread Trail of Giving: Nov. 23 - Jan. 5

We remain committed to keeping the spirit of the competition alive during Asheville’s recovery period. This season, over 45 competitors will bring their gingerbread creations to be displayed for visitors and locals to view at the resort and local businesses. While the pieces will not be professionally judged, this change in format will allow us to share the beauty and magic of our competitors’ work with the community—a community that deeply needs the hope and joy their artistry can bring. Gingerbread entries will go on display starting Saturday, November 23 through Sunday, January 5.

Click here to download the map which includes the full list of display locations and directions. As you embark on this Sugar & Spice Stroll throughout Asheville, savor the gingerbread works of art and tag us on Instagram (@omnigrovepark) and Facebook (@omnigroveparkinn) or use #TrailofGiving and #groveparkinn to share your experience.

12 Days of Gingerbread

The hotel will continue, “The 12 Days of Gingerbread” by presenting some of this year’s Gingerbread creations on the hotel’s Facebook (@omnigroveparkinn) and Instagram (@omnigrovepark) channels from December 1 - 12, 2024 to spark Ginger-love for all. Providing a virtual way for all to take part in this beloved tradition.

Holiday Parking Program 

Since the inception of the Holiday Parking Partner program in 2013, we have been honored to contribute over $1.1 million dollars to not-for-profit partners in Western North Carolina. During the Fall & Holiday season, there is no complimentary parking on property. Starting December 1, 2024, there will not be complimentary parking on property. From December 1 – 31, 2024, the parking rates will be as follows:

Valet Parking | $40 for day parking & overnight guests
Self-Parking | $30 for day parking & overnight guests

Bus and Oversized Vehicle Information

Bus or Oversized vehicles without an official OGPI parking pass and reservation will be turned away. If you have a reservation on file but have not received a parking pass, please contact us:
For Dining Buses: [email protected]
For Viewing Only Buses: [email protected]

How it all Began 

It all began with a small group of gingerbread houses built by community members in 1992 as another way to celebrate the holiday season with no plans to continue the following year. There was no possible way to know that more than two decades later The Omni Grove Park Inn National Gingerbread House Competition™ would be one of the nation's most celebrated and competitive holiday events.

As the event grew, so did the caliber of judges and competitors. Our panel of judges represents nationally renowned food and media professionals, and the level of competition has attracted the highest quality of design, artistry and pastry expertise. The competition has merited broadcast coverage by NBC’s TODAY Show, ABC's Good Morning America, the Travel Channel, and the Food Network.

The Gingerbread Display has grown in more than just entries; it has become a true family holiday tradition. From the very young to the very young at heart, the reaction to this magical experience is the same - one of wonder, awe and delight.