Competition & Viewing Information
The 32nd Annual National Gingerbread House Competition™
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 Spirit Reimagined: Sharing Joy with Our Community
We remain committed to keeping the spirit of the competition alive during these challenging times. Both competitors and new participants can choose to display their Gingerbread creations at local businesses in Asheville, with some pieces featured at The Omni Grove Park Inn. While the pieces will not be professionally judged, this 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.
If you have not entered but are interested in participating, please email your name and contact information to [email protected]. A member of our team will follow up within 3-5 business days.
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.
Viewing the Display
For those planning to visit during the holiday season, guests will be welcomed by the magic of twinkling lights, beautifully decorated Christmas trees, and the comforting aroma of hot chocolate and gingerbread cookies. The festive atmosphere will fill the hotel, adding a special touch of holiday cheer, though a traditional Gingerbread house display will not be featured in 2024. Please note that only Registered Resort Pets will be permitted. No outside pets will be allowed.
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
Updates for those who previously reserved bus and oversized vehicle parking during the holiday season will be shared soon via email to the contact on file.
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.
