Kitchens in Maine are beginning to warm up as bakers near and far have started not only designing but baking and building their entries for the 2025 Gingerbread Spectacular at the Opera House in Boothbay Harbor. For the past 19 years both novice and professional gingerbread house builders, young and old, from near and far, have brought their holiday gingerbread houses and castles, cabins and lighthouses, tree forts and barnyards to be displayed as part of the exhibit. This year’s Gingerbread Spectacular is Dec. 12-14.

Some gingerbread creators design their entry just for fun, while others have been more competitive over the years, hoping to win one of the many prizes. In addition to Most Spectacular, the judges typically award prizes for the Best Representation of a Local Landmark, the Most Hilarious, the Most Delicious Looking, the Best Traditional Gingerbread House Design, the Best Holiday Spirit, the Best Youth Entry and more. The 2025 judging team includes Wendy Bellows, Margaret Branch, Pandy Dickinson and Lenore Imhof and the judges are comprised of a mix of past winners, professional bakers, and teachers.

During the three days of the Spectacular, set amidst the beautifully decorated historic Opera House, the volunteer Friends of the OH promise the return of their popular and delicious holiday bake sale and raffle. Raffle prizes include gift certificates to local businesses Ports of Italy, Pinkham’s Market and the Back River Bistro and perfect gifts from Eventide Specialties, McDonald Stained Glass, Harbor Blooms, and special handmade items too. In addition, there will be an opportunity for visitors to bid on the chance to win a cruise on the historic Nellie G. Many of the gingerbread houses will also be available to bid on and take home at the end of the weekend.

All proceeds from the auction, raffle and bake sale go to help maintain the Opera House. Live music will be performed throughout the three days of the Spectacular. The Spectacular is free to attend, but donations to help support the Opera House are welcome throughout the weekend.

Anyone interested in entering or learning more about the rules, should contact the Opera House at info@boothbayoperahouse.com or call the office at 207-633-6855.

Entries must be delivered to the Opera House on Thursday, Dec. 11. The Gingerbread Spectacular will be open to the public beginning on Friday, Dec. 12 from noon to 6 p.m. and on Saturday, Dec. 13 from 100 a.m. to 4 p.m. and on Sunday, Dec. 14 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. No tickets are required to attend the exhibit.

The Opera House is located at 86 Townsend Ave., Boothbay Harbor. The Spectacular is sponsored in part thanks to support from The First National Bank.