Constructing carefully built, entirely edible gingerbread houses is a long-held tradition for many families around Christmastime, and in Conway, results in a little friendly competition!

For the third year, Conway Downtown Alive is hosting The Great Conway Gingerbread House Challenge, annually presented by the William & Sallie Goldfinch Family.

According to CDA Director Hillary Howard, “We have had a fantastic turnout for the first two years of this event and we expect the bar to be raised even higher this year! Conway is filled with incredibly talented people, and this event celebrates those talents and invites the public to join in the fun.”

Bakers can work solo on their architectural masterpieces, or form a group to participate.

Entries compete in one of four categories: Professional; Iconic/Historic Conway Structure; Wacky & Whimsical; and Traditional Gingerbread House. The winner of each category will take home a prize of $250, and all amateur entries are eligible to compete in the People’s Choice voting, which also comes with a $250 prize. Gingerbread houses must be dropped off at Black Water Market at 1019, 4th Avenue on December 10 between 5-7 p.m. The judging is  December 11. 

The houses will remain on display at Black Water Market until December 19, when the  prizes are awarded at 8 p.m.

The houses are judged by the sponsors of the Rivertown Christmas Celebration, except for the People's Choice Award. 

There have been some great, creative structures submitted since 2022, Howard says. 

“One of the best entries was Callie Wise State Farm. Their gingerbread house had so many ‘insurance’ claims! A tree in the roof, a car hitting the fence in front, and the fireplace caught the stockings on fire. A creative way to represent their business.”

Additionally, she notes, “The Historic Landmark is my favorite category. We always get a Conway City Hall or two. The creative use of material is outstanding. A church entry last year used rosemary for garland on the doors and window. Beautiful, and a delight to the nose!” 

Registration, full event details, and rules are available at conwayalive.com. Free, however, participants must register in advance so Conway Alive can appropriately prepare.

The Great Conway Gingerbread House Challenge
Free registration at conwayalive.com
Completed houses due Tuesday, Dec. 10
(843) 248-6260