Please note: This post was written in 2021, and while it should still give you a good overview of the experience, it may also contain some outdated information. Please be sure to check the Wood Memorial Library’s website for the most current information.
The 2023 event runs from November 24th to December 17th.
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2021 Post:
Through December 19th you can stop by the Wood Memorial Library in South Windsor for a sweet treat– two floors filled with dozens of delectable gingerbread creations decorated and donated by local exhibitors of all ages, ranging from beginners to professional bakers and pastry chefs. After migrating to Evergreen Walk for 2020 to create a more Covid-safe environment, this annual event (in its 11th year!) has come back to its home, sweet home at the Wood Memorial Library for the 2021 season.
You’ll also find a holiday craft fair on the second floor where local vendors are offering their creations for sale, a percentage of which will go to support the Wood. It’s a great opportunity to have a little festive fun, do some holiday shopping and support both local businesses and a venerable institution at the same time! That’s some merry multitasking!
Meander through the rooms at your leisure. There is lots to see!
Spoiler alert! I just can’t resist showing you a few of our favorites 🙂
I, on the other hand, could not possibly pick a favorite! Could you???
On the second floor you will also find this fabulous gift shop, filled with items handmade or selected by local artisans and businesses. There are so many reasonably priced gift items (we’re talking things for $5 here!) like soaps, small fabric goods, packaged cookies and treats, jewelry and more!
This would be a wonderful opportunity to bring your children and give them a chance to pick out gifts for their friends and loved ones– even a small allowance will go a long way!
And best of all, 30% of sales will be donated to the Wood Memorial Library, so you can give back while you’re gifting.
Marvel at the wondrous gingerbread creations, shop for a great cause, and just generally enjoy the lovely sights and sounds of the glorious holiday season! Or if you’re like my family, run home and get to work on your own gingerbread creations inspired by ideas from the festival 🙂
But hurry, because the Annual Gingerbread House Festival ends December 19th.
It’s events like this that truly make it the most wonderful time of the year. Enjoy!
Wood Memorial Library & Museum 11th Annual Gingerbread House Festival
Hours (2021):
November 26, 2021 – December 19, 2021.
Thursdays and Fridays between 10am and 7pm or on Saturdays and Sundays between 10am and 5pm.
Pricing (2021):
The festival is FREE and open to the public. However, donations from individuals visiting the festival are greatly appreciated. This festival is generally their largest fundraiser of the year, due in large part to raffles, gift shop revenue and many generous individuals who contribute to their donation boxes located throughout the festival.
Details:
Stroller Friendly: Although technically I think you could get a stroller around– and there is an elevator to the second floor– I think you would be better off with a wearable baby carrier for your non-walkers. The space is tight and there could be a lot of people mulling around. If you must bring a stroller, definitely try to go at one of the less busy times, like during the week.
Coffee Mug Friendly: Ooooh. I don’t know this one for sure. But if I had to guess, I’d leave your beverages in the car for later 😉
Restroom: YES
Parking: YES, you want to pull into the lot to the left of the building (as you face it).
Food for Sale: YES, packaged cookies and other treats available in the gift shop.
Outside Food Allowed: N/A
Cash Required: YES, for making donations and purchasing raffle tickets. Credit cards are accepted in the gift shop.
Dress Code: Masks required for all.
Age Recommendation: All ages
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