ASHEVILLE, N.C. (828newsNOW) – Asheville’s historic Grove Park Inn has hosted the National Gingerbread House Competition for more than 30 years. But not this year.
After the devastation of Hurricane Helene, event organizers did not feel it was right to move ahead. In leu, they created the Gingerbread Trail of Giving, a collection of local businesses hosting gingerbread houses made by artists from around the country to attract business and share the joy around town.
This year, more than 40 businesses in and around downtown are slated to adorn their windows with the cookie sculptures, with some at the Grove Park Inn too. Public viewing is open now through Jan. 5.
To qualify, contestants had to create their abodes out of at least 75% gingerbread. All other ingredients were required to be edible. Competitors of all ages were welcome to join in different categories based on age, from child to adult.
“Mast General Store became involved with the Gingerbread Trail after being invited to host as part of the effort to bring holiday cheer and unity following the aftermath of Hurricane Helene,” director of Community Relations Thalia Villarosa informed 828newsNOW. “As a local business in the heart of Asheville, we’re deeply committed to supporting our neighbors during this challenging time. Our community needs space to heal, and we’re honored to contribute by being part of such a wonderful and uplifting holiday tradition.”
The gingerbread house on display at Mast General Store’s Asheville location was designed by Samuel Budzinski, a youth competitor from Asheville.
“The display is a small, charming scene designed to be visible from our storefront windows, allowing passersby to enjoy it from the street,” Villarosa wrote.
On his entry ballot, Budzinski described his art as inspired by a “wintery forest.”
“I think our Asheville store, like much of the community, has been searching for holiday spirit in the wake of the storm,” Villarosa explained. “This opportunity goes beyond a gingerbread competition—it’s about the community coming together to celebrate, support one another, and share in the joy of the season.”