Once again, we are excited to spread the joy of the Gingerbread Competition to the Regional Food Bank. 100% of the $15 per person entry fee collected will be donated to this local non-profit to support their efforts to alleviate hunger in the local community.
Last year, thanks to your donations, we were able to raise $50,000 from the 2025 event. We urge everyone to consider giving even more through a direct donation to the Regional Food Bank.
Thank you for helping make the 10th Anniversary of the Hudson Valley Gingerbread Competition a success, and we look forward to this year!
Gingerbread Pass
Discover sweet holiday traditions
AVAILABLE ON COMPETITION DAY, dECEMBER 6,
& sELECT daTES IN december 2026
$15 per person
100% donated to the Regional Food Bank
Explore our beautifully decorated Mountain House and take a self-guided tour to see over 20 Gingerbread Houses on display. Plus, your Gingerbread Pass gives you discounts on ice skating, lunch in the Main Dining Room (Monday-Friday), gift shop purchases, and more!
Come for the day and celebrate the true meaning of the holidays. There’s no better place to get in the holiday spirit.
Gingerbread Passes may only be purchased online and are available 72 hours prior to your visit. Passes cannot be reserved via phone. GINGERBREAD PASS SALES WILL BEGIN ON THURSDAY, DECEMBER 3, FOR COMPETITION DAY.
Passes are available
December 6 (competition day), December 7 – 11, & December 14 – 18
Availability is limited! Passes are released 72 hours before the visit date. Day Passes are valid for the day, regardless of the time slot selected, from 9am until dusk. Pass sales will begin on December 3, 2026 for Competition Day.
For more information, please contact 845.256.2996.
What’s Included
View the Gingerbread Display
View all entries in the Hudson Valley Gingerbread Competition on December 6, competition day. Following the event, admire the winning creations displayed throughout the Mountain House.
Self-Parking at the Mountain House
When you arrive at the Mountain House, our Gatehouse attendants will be happy to direct you to the appropriate self-parking area.
Christmas Trees & Holiday Cheer
Take a self-guided tour of the beautifully decorated, themed Christmas trees throughout the Mountain House, and soak in the magic of the season with festive holiday décor and cheer around every corner!
Winter Lights Display
Our talented team of craftsmen have created an immersive lights display celebrating the magic of winter this holiday season. Delight in surprises at every turn as you explore our collection of winter-inspired Instagram-worthy displays.
Access to Open Hiking Trails
Access to open hiking trails is weather-dependent during the winter months. *Please note, depending on trail conditions, micro-spikes or snowshoes may be required and are available to rent at the Sports Center.
Exclusive Dining & Retail Discounts
Enjoy 20% off purchases at our Spa & Fitness Boutiques, Gift Shop, Mohonk Outfitters, and Greenhouse Shop. Plus, join us for lunch in our historic Main Dining Room Monday through Friday and receive 20% off your meal!
Special Ice-Skating Rate
Gingerbread Pass holders enjoy a special ice-skating rate of $20 per person, per session.
Your Visit Makes a Difference
100% of your $15 entry fee is donated to the Regional Food Bank to help fight hunger in our local community. Want to make an even bigger impact? Consider making an additional donation below!
Gingerbread Competition Day Schedule
Here’s what to expect on December 6:
Holiday Market
Gift Shop
9am – 5pm
Celebrate the season at our Gift Shop Pop-Up, featuring special Hudson Valley Gingerbread Competition merchandise and charming holiday treasures. Our full Gift Shop will also be open until 11pm.
Ice Skate Session
9:30am – 12:30pm
Glide around our open-air ice skating pavilion. Please sign in at the Skate Shop before entering the rink.
Competitor Voting
10:20am – 10:45am
Once the entries are set up in the Parlor, competitors will receive a ballot to vote for their favorite creation (excluding your own) as part of the Competitors’ Choice Award. During this time, the Parlor is closed to the public.
Judging
11am – 12:30pm
Our panel of expert judges will evaluate entries behind closed doors based on creativity, difficulty, execution, and theme. During this time, the Parlor is closed to both the public and competitors.
Pop-up Mimosa and Bloody Mary Bar
11:30am – 2:30pm
Celebrate the holiday season and enjoy a drink at our Pop-up Mimosa and Bloody Mary Bar in the Lake Lounge. Select from a variety of ‘build your own’ options to add a touch of sparkle and flavor!
Pictures with
Mr. & Mrs. Claus
12pm – 1pm
See the jolly ole elf himself! Mr. & Mrs. Claus will be available for Christmas wishes and pictures. Complimentary.
Public Viewing & Viewers’ Choice Voting
12:30pm – 3:30pm
Friends, family, and guests are welcome to view the incredible gingerbread creations. Guests may vote for their favorite entry in the Viewers’ Choice Award during this time.
Awards Ceremony
4pm
Join us for the Awards Ceremony, where we will honor the most outstanding entries across multiple categories. Winners will take home exciting prizes, including overnight stays and exclusive Mohonk experiences. Don’t put your camera away just yet—everyone’s favorite holiday cookie, Gingy, will be sticking around to help celebrate!
Holiday Favorites with Redhot & Blue
4pm
Join Yale’s celebrated a cappella group, Redhot & Blue, for a festive afternoon of tea, cookies, and holiday cheer. Known for their award–winning sound and rich history of honoring jazz greats like Ella Fitzgerald and Duke Ellington, the ensemble has expanded its repertoire to embrace Broadway, pop, and seasonal classics. Their spirited harmonies and joyful energy make this the perfect way to celebrate the holidays at Mohonk.
Campfire with S’mores
4:30pm – 5:30pm
Join us by our fire pits as you wind down your afternoon and toast a delicious s’more or two!
Hanukkah Celebration
5pm
Please join us for the lighting of the Menorah as we celebrate Hanukkah together. Rabbi Zoe B. Zak will lead the evening’s ceremony, accompanied by special musical guests including the Klezmatics’ Margot Leverett. Come share in this cherished tradition, enjoy the music, and embrace the spirit of the season. All are warmly welcome to join in an evening of community and celebration!
Winter Lights
5pm – 9pm
Our talented team of craftsmen has created an immersive light display celebrating the magic of winter this holiday season. Delight in surprises at every turn as you explore our collection of winter-inspired Instagram-worthy displays. Approximately 10 minutes.
Marshmallow Tower Challenge
7:30pm
Work together to build the tallest tower possible using marshmallows and spaghetti. A little creativity, teamwork, and engineering will help your tower reach new heights! Grand prize goes to the tallest tower.
Soul Purpose
9pm
Based in the Hudson Valley, Soul Purpose is a seven-piece band fueled by a shared love of Soul, New Orleans Funk, Swing, and R&B. Led by saxophonist Dr. Lori Morris, tonight will be an evening filled with visceral rhythm, boisterous energy, and joy to lift your heart!
Celebrating the true meaning of the holidays
our partners with
the regional food bank
We want to extend a special thank you to
M&T Bank for their generous donation.
Our Esteemed Judges
Mohonk Executive Pastry Chef, Audrey Billups
Audrey Billups is the Executive Pastry Chef at Mohonk Mountain House and has more than 15 years of experience in baking and pastry operations. Before returning to Mohonk in January 2017, Billups served as the pastry chef at Topping Rose House in Bridgehampton, New York where she artfully prepared bread, breakfast pastries, desserts, ice cream, sorbets, and mignardise for the seasonal restaurant. Prior to her role at Topping Rose House, Billups was the pastry sous chef at Ai Fiori, a one Michelin-starred and New York Times three-star restaurant and Marea, a two Michelin-starred and New York Times three-star restaurant, in New York City. Early in her career, Billups served as an assistant pastry chef at Mohonk Mountain House before moving to California to work as the pastry chef de partie at Addison at The Grand Del Mar in San Diego.
Alessandra Ciuffo
Alessandra Ciuffo, known as @Flavorsbyalessandra on social media, is a 24-year-old chef and media personality who began cooking at three years old. Entering the food media space at a young age, Alessandra has always had a lot of energy and excitement around learning, creating, and talking about all things food. She was on her first cooking show on Food Network at age 12, won Guy’s Grocery Games at 15, and has been featured on 5 episodes of The Rachael Ray Show.
After obtaining a degree in Business Administration from Fordham University, Alessandra decided to pursue her passion for food full-time by enrolling in the Institute of Culinary Education. Now, she runs her own food media business and has worked with brands such as Whole Foods, Samsung, Barilla, Marriott, Pepsi, and more. Her culinary lifestyle brand, @Flavorsbyalessandra, has rapidly grown by delivering high-quality recipes, culinary techniques, and glimpses into her life alongside her Italian-American family!
Amber Spiegel
While studying marketing in college, Amber of SweetAmbs Cookies realized that her true passion was decorating cakes and cookies – a profession where she could combine her artistic skills with her love for baking. She went on to obtain a degree in Baking and Pastry Arts from The Culinary Institute of America and now entertains millions of viewers with her mesmerizing cookie decorating video tutorials. Amber has authored two books, Cookie Art and Cookie Canvas, and founded the Cookie Art Club where she teaches others to create their own edible works of art.
Chitra Agrawal
Chitra Agrawal is the Founder & CEO of Brooklyn Delhi, a premium Indian food brand specializing in simmer sauces, condiments and heat & eat meals available at grocery stores nationwide. Chitra is the author of Vibrant India: Fresh Vegetarian Recipes from Bangalore to Brooklyn (Penguin, 2017). She has specialized in teaching, serving and writing about vegetarian food rooted in her family’s recipes from India for over a decade. Her work has been featured in dozens of publications including the New York Times, Saveur, Food & Wine, and beyond.
Josiah Brown
Josiah Brown, or the New York Sherpa as he is called in the tourism industry, is the President/CEO of Famous Destination Marketing. He is the founder of the New York’s Best Experiences Mobile Visitor Center brand and tour and the founder/editor of the New York’s Best Experiences Travel Guide. Josiah resides with his family in the Catskill Mountains of New York. He loves sushi, candy and everything travel.
Pass Details
Important Notes & Policies:
- Day Passes are valid from 9am to dusk, regardless of the time slot selected. (Guests with a Stay Experience do not need a Gingerbread Pass).
- Gingerbread Passes must be purchased online. Please be prepared to show an email confirmation to the Gatehouse attendant upon your arrival.
- Gingerbread Pass is non-refundable and available for booking on a first-come, first-served basis 72 hours in advance of your planned arrival date. For example, the earliest a Friday pass can be purchased is the Tuesday prior.
- Gingerbread Pass is valid from 9am to dusk on the date of your confirmation.
- The Gingerbread Pass does not give guests access to the Mohonk Spa, Fitness Center, or indoor pool.
- Pets are not allowed on our private property.
- Gingerbread Passes are subject to availability and limited quantity.
For more information, call our Gingerbread Helpline at (845) 256-2996.
Gingerbread Pass for Spa & Dining Guests
Have an appointment at our Spa or a meal reservation in our Main Dining Room?
You do not need to purchase a Gingerbread Pass to enjoy the holiday festivities with us.
The 10th Anniversary Gingerbread Winners
Once Upon a Time
By The Blacks
Having a Blast in the Crystal Caves
By The Millington Architects
The Adventure of Captain CrumbleBeard and
the Attack of the GingerKraken
By Brunk Built
Whirlin’ Winter Wonderland
By Erica Reisinger
Barnegat Light
By Caputo Sisters
Outer Banks, North Carolina
By The 4 Hansen Kids
Jinjabread Pagoda
By Caitlyn Averinos
White Winter Ice Skates
By Candy Cane Crushers
Skiing in a Winter Wonderland
By Bunch of Bakers
Drab to Fab
By Boxwood Realty + Design
Sugar and Spice but Something’s Not Right
By Angela Lapolt
Flying Monkeys
By The Flying Monkeys
Winter at Mohonk Manor
By Milica Ratkovic Ciccone
Gingerbread Greenhouse
By Rachel & Richard
Maria’s Magical Carousel of Marvelous Beasts
By Erika Munro
The Whimsical Schoolhouse
By The Sugar Scholars
Lake Mohonk on a Crisp Day
By Maureen Taub
Pawsome Holiday Cheer
By 4 Paws!
Frequently Asked Questions
Gingerbread Competition
What is the Hudson Valley Gingerbread Competition?
The Hudson Valley Gingerbread Competition began in 2016 at Mohonk Mountain House. Individuals and teams create Gingerbread display pieces and compete for top honor. Pieces are judged and the winning pieces are displayed in the Mountain House during the Holiday season. For the past nine years we have seen some of the most artistic and innovative designs enter the competition and are excited to continue this tradition. We are honored to partner with the Food Bank of the Hudson Valley to humbly contribute to an amazing cause.
When is the Hudson Valley Gingerbread Competition?
Sunday, December 6, 2026.
How do I enter the Hudson Valley Gingerbread Competition?
Registration will close Friday, November 6, 2026. Follow the instructions to fill out the Digital Entry Form or the PDF form above. Please email the filled PDF back to [email protected].
How do I find out the rules and guidelines for competitors?
Rules & guidelines are listed above on www.mohonk.com/hudon-valley-gingerbread-competition-details
Will there be an in-person event and awards ceremony open to the public on the day of judging?
Yes, there will be an in-person event open to the general public on Sunday, December 6, 2026.
I can’t make it the day of the competition. How else can I visit all of the gingerbread pieces that will be on display at Mohonk Mountain House?
In addition to the official competition on Sunday, December 6, 2026, we will offer a Gingerbread Pass to come view the top pieces on display around the Mountain House. Gingerbread Passes will be offered on December 6th (Competition Day) and select dates through December. The Gingerbread Pass will be $15 per person and can be purchased online 72 hours before the selected days at www.mohonk.com/experience-passes/gingerbread-pass/. All of the entry fees collected for the Gingerbread Pass will be donated to the Regional Food Bank. Those with a pass or who are registered guests of the Mountain House are welcome to tour the top pieces, plus winners from the additional awards.
What days will the Gingerbread Pass be available to purchase?
There will be a limited number sold each day, and sale of the passes will open 72 hours prior to the selected date. Gingerbread Passes will be offered on select dates in December. Please visit www.mohonk.com/experience-passes/gingerbread-pass/ to view this year’s pass dates & to purchase your Gingerbread Pass.
What else can I do while I visit your resort for the day with a Gingerbread Pass?
Each guest will receive a Gingerbread Passport at the Mohonk Gatehouse. We encourage you to visit our Ice Skating Pavilion, Gift Shop, Greenhouse, Sports Center, Spa Reception, and more! While visiting these locations, get a stamp on your passport. If you collect all the stamps on your passport, you will be entered in to win a one-night stay for 2 people at Mohonk Mountain House.
There is a special Gingerbread rate to ice skate for $20.00 per person per session. Additionally, receive 20% off qualifying purchases at select retail locations.
For an additional fee, you are welcome to enjoy lunch in our Carriage Lounge or make advance reservations in our Dining Room for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.
How does the judging and voting process work?
Judging will take place to select the winners for the Adult, Junior, and Employee categories. They will also select winners for the Most Traditional Gingerbread House, First-Timer Award, Most Innovative Structure, Best Use of Edible Mixed Media, Best Holiday Spirit, Best Mohonk Inspired, and Best Food Inspired.
On the day of the competition, we will hold voting for a Viewers’ Choice and a Competitors’ Choice.
The top pieces, plus winners from the additional awards, will be on display through December at the Mountain House. The winners will be announced live on Sunday, December 6th at 4:00 pm and then will be listed on our website.
How can we find out who won the 2026 Competition?
The competitors whose pieces are selected by our judges will be listed on our website and throughout the Mountain House by Monday, December 7, 2026.
Who can we contact with questions about the competition?
For questions about the competition please email [email protected] and one of the committee members will respond.
How can I make a donation to the Regional Food Bank?
Donations can be made to the Regional Food Bank on the day of competition through QR codes we have placed throughout the House. Donations can also be made through the Mohonk Mountain House website, on the Gingerbread Competition event page.
What are the prizes for this year’s competition?
Adult Category:
First Place: A two-night stay at Mohonk Mountain House for two, a $1,000 Mohonk Gift Card, and Dinner for two at our Chef’s Table, including Wine Pairing. (Approximate value up to $5,050).
Second Place: A one-night stay at Mohonk Mountain House for two adults and a $500 Mohonk Gift Card (Approximate value up to $2,150).
Third Place: Lunch or Dinner at Mohonk Mountain House with access to our hiking trails for four people and a $100 Mohonk Gift Card (Approximate value up to $660).
Honorable Mention: A gift certificate of 4 Hiking Passes (Approximate value up to $140).
Junior Category:
First Place: Lunch or Dinner at Mohonk Mountain House, Recreation Access Passes for four people, and a $50 Mohonk Gift Card (Approximate value up to $980).
Second Place: Lunch or Dinner at Mohonk Mountain House with access to our hiking trails for four people and a $50 Mohonk Gift card (Approximate value up to $610).
Third Place: Lunch or Dinner at Mohonk Mountain House with access to our hiking trails for four people (Approximate value up to $560)
Honorable Mention: A gift basket and a $50 Mohonk Gift Card.
Mohonk Employee & Families Category:
First Place: A two-night stay for two adults at Mohonk Mountain House and a $500 Mohonk Gift Card.
Second Place: A one-night stay for two adults at Mohonk Mountain House.
Third Place: Lunch or Dinner at Mohonk Mountain House for four people and a $50 Mohonk Gift Card.
Honorable Mention: A gift certificate of 4 Hiking Passes (Approximate value up to $140).
Special Skills Awards:
Most Traditional Gingerbread House: This award recognizes the gingerbread creation that best captures the timeless charm of a traditional gingerbread house. The judges will select the design that demonstrates creativity, craftsmanship, and classic holiday appeal, with the winner receiving a $250 Mohonk Gift Card.
First-Timer Award: This award recognizes the highest judge-scored gingerbread piece from all entries that are first-time competitors, with the winner receiving a $250 Mohonk Gift Card.
Best Use of Edible Mixed Media: – (Examples include a variety of techniques, but not limited to fondant, chocolate, spun sugar, pastillage, isomalt, marshmallow, piping, etc.) Judges will select the entry that they feel has the best use of edible mixed media. The winner will get a $250 Mohonk Gift Card.
Best Innovative Structure: Judges will select the entry that they feel has the most innovative structure. The winner will get a $250 Mohonk Gift Card.
Best Holiday Spirit: Judges will choose the entry that best embodies holiday joy and tradition. The winner receiving a $250 Mohonk Gift Card.
Best Mohonk Inspired Award: The judges will select the design that embodies creativity, craftsmanship, and a strong connection to the essence of Mohonk. The winner will receive a $250 Mohonk Gift Card.
Best Food Inspired Award: This award recognizes the gingerbread piece that demonstrates a fun, festive, and fantastic food inspired creation. The judges will select the design that captures originality, execution, and how well the piece brings a food concept to life, with the winner receiving a $250 Mohonk Gift Card.
Viewers’ Choice Award: Each visitor to the Mountain House on Sunday, December 7, 2025 can cast one vote for their favorite entry to help choose the overall Viewers’ Choice winner. Voting will start at 1pm until 3:30pm and the winner will be announced at the award’s ceremony at 4pm. The Viewers’ Choice winner will receive a Gift Basket and $50 Mohonk Gift Card.
Competitors’ Choice Award: Exclusive for our Gingerbread Competitors, each entry (individual or team) will be given one ballot to vote for their favorite entry. Competitors can vote for an entry in any category, except their own entry. Voting will take place at between 11am and 11:15 am at the end of the set-up and registration period. The winner will be announced during the awards ceremony at 4:00 pm. The Competitors’ Choice winner will receive a Gift Basket and $50 Mohonk Gift Card
Questions?
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