New Lenox Hosts Holiday Gingerbread House Building Contest

NEW LENOX, IL — Nothing congers up holiday warmth quite like a gingerbread house and for the first time, New Lenox residents will have the chance to build their own versions of the winter-time favorite for all their neighbors to see.

Village officials announced the gingerbread house contest, which is part of the New Lenox Christmas in the Commons festivities. The friendly competition is open to individuals, families, businesses and community organizations alike.

Participants must register by Dec. 3 and the finished product must be delivered between 8:30 a.m. and 5:30 p.m. on Dec. 10, the village announced Wednesday. All entries will be put on display on the weekends of Dec. 11 and 12 and Dec. 18 and 19 at Christmas on the Commons. Entries will be displayed in a heated tent in front of the Village Hall.

Winners will be selected by popular vote and Christmas in the Commons attendees are allowed to vote once per day. Prizes of $100, $75, and $50 will be awarded for first, second and third place, respectively. Winners will be contacted on Dec. 20 and photos of the winning entries will be posted online.

Entries will be disposed of following the display period unless the participant requests otherwise in advance. Local residents can register for the contest here.

• Entry bases may be no larger than 18”x18”.
• Entry is not required to be a house. Other structures are permitted.
• Structures must be constructed from a majority of edible materials. Non-edible materials may be used for the structure's base.
• Structures must not contain materials that require refrigeration including icing made with eggs, butter, or milk.
• Structures should be created on a solid, sturdy base that will allow for transport and movement. Base suggestions include heavy cardboard, foam core, wood, or a baking sheet. If cardboard is used, it should be covered with aluminum foil so that it does not get soggy.

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