Get ready for the sweetest event of the season! The City of San Clemente Recreation Division is thrilled to invite all bakers, builders, designers, and artists to participate in the 5th Annual Gingerbread House Contest and Display, part of the enchanting Santa’s Village by the Sea celebration on Saturday, December 7, 2024, from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. 

Show off your creativity and spread holiday cheer! The contest is open to individuals, families, schools, non-profits, and professionals. All skill levels and groups are encouraged to participate. Gingerbread builders and architects can enter into the following divisions: Individual Youth (ages 15 & under); Individual Adults (16+ years); and Family/Group (all ages). The contest is free to participate, but pre-registration is required. Register online at www.san-clemente.org/events. Each participant/group will receive a 12” x 12” square base, available for pickup at the Community Center (100 N Calle Seville) or San Clemente Aquatics Center (987 Ave. Vista Hermosa). 

Gingerbread masterpieces will be judged on originality, creativity, difficulty, precision, and overall appearance. We encourage you to use all edible materials to craft your delightful designs. Exciting awards await the top three entries in each division, plus a “People’s Choice” award. Don’t forget to vote for your favorite gingerbread creation at Santa's Village by the Sea! The gingerbread houses will remain on display at the San Clemente Art Gallery until Thursday, December 12th. 

Winners are announced between 4:45 pm and 5:00 pm before the tree lighting ceremony at the Community Center at the corner of Calle Seville and Ave. Del Mar.  

For more information, contact the Recreation Division at (949)361-8264 or (949) 429-8797 or visit san-clemente.org/recreation. Happy gingerbread building!