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Gingerbread Lane
– Frequently Asked Questions
Does the minimum size include decorations, or just the house?
The minimum size requirement refers to the total dimensions of your entry, including trees, attached pieces, and surrounding elements—not just the main structure. However, the main focus should be the house itself, which should be larger than the surrounding features in order to meet the guidelines.
What materials can be used?
All materials must be edible food items, except for the frame, Christmas lights, and other decorative items. Examples include candy, chocolate, cereal, and even uncooked pasta. Other non-edible items are not permitted.
Where will the Gingerbread Houses be displayed?
All creations will be proudly displayed in the hotel lobby. Placement is determined by the hotel team, based on visual flow and overall presentation of the event.
What are the deadlines?
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Early Bird Deadline: Friday, October 24
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Early Bird entries are entered into a draw to win one of three $100 gift certificates to Grain Tasting Bar.
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Final Deadline: Friday, November 7
How and when do I drop off my Gingerbread House?
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Drop-off location: Hyatt lobby
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Please pull up to the front hotel driveway or park your car downstairs and head up to the Guest Services desk to register your license plate if you plan to stay for a bit to continue your set up.
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Assistance: Please bring help if your house is heavy, as we cannot provide carrying assistance. Dollies or carts will be available for transport to the setup area.
How and when do I pick up my Gingerbread House?
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Displays will be taken down on Monday, December 29
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If you wish to keep your house, please complete a discard form
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Unclaimed houses will be discarded after December 31 (maximum two-day hold).
What happens at the Opening Ceremony?
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Date: Wednesday, November 26
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Doors Open: 5:00 pm | Ceremony Begins: 5:30 pm
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This invitation-only celebration showcases the incredible Gingerbread Lane creations and supports the Make-A-Wish Canada Foundation
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Each group may bring up to four participants who were directly involved in building the house. School entries may bring up to six participants (students and teachers).
When is the deadline for the People’s Choice Award?
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Voting closes on Sunday, December 28. Winner to be announced in the new year!
How does the judging process work?
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A panel of judges—including culinary experts, influencers, and special guest judges—will evaluate each house based on the following criteria:
• Creativity
• Originality
• Decoration Detail
• Degree of Difficulty
• Overall Appearance​
How many houses can participate?
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Due to limited space in the lobby, only a set number of houses will be accepted. If submissions exceed this number, additional entries will be placed on a waitlist and contacted if a spot becomes available.