The holiday season and gingerbread houses go hand in hand. All over Connecticut are events to either view gingerbread houses or learn how to make one.
One of the biggest events of the year is in South Windsor with the Watershed History Collective. Their 15th Annual Gingerbread House Festival: Gingy in Toyland is kicking off at the end of November and running into mid-December. Gingerbread houses will be on display from artisans of all skill levels along with holiday shopping. Stew Leonard’s in Newington is hosting a family-friendly decorating class and don’t forget the 21+ crowd. Lyman Orchards and Crystal Ridge Winery are both hosting gingerbread house decorating classes to show off your artistry and architectural prowess.
Here are a few of the gingerbread house events going on in Connecticut coming up later this month and into December.
South Windsor
The 15th Annual Gingerbread House Festival: Gingy in Toyland kicks off on Friday, Nov. 28 and runs until Sunday, Dec. 14 with open hours on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays. Due to ongoing construction at the Wood Memorial Library, the gingerbread houses will be at Nomads Adventure Quest in South Windsor.
It is free and open to the public, but donations are accepted for the Watershed History Collective, previously known as the Friends of the Wood Memorial Library.
Visitors can view the fairy tale houses and fantasy trains created by regional artisans and bakers from all skill levels. There is shopping available at the Ye Olde Gingerbread Shoppe as well.
The festival is open at 100 Bidwell St., on Fridays and Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. and on Sundays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Glastonbury
Crystal Ridge Winery is holding a Gingerbread House Decorating Class in December.
On Thursday, Dec. 4 at 6 p.m., the winery at 257 Belltown Road, South Glastonbury, will be hosting its learn how to decorate gingerbread houses class. Tickets are required.
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Newington
Stew Leonard’s is hosting its annual Gingerbread House Decorating Class. Visitors can build and decorate their own gingerbread houses and hosts will assist children as well.
The store, located at 3475 Berlin Turnpike in Newington, is requiring tickets. The class will be on Saturday, Dec. 13 at 12:30 p.m.
Middlefield
Lyman Orchards is hosting a 21+ Gingerbread Decorating Extravaganza. Visitors can sip, snack and decorate their own pre-built gingerbread house. No assembly required.
Lyman is providing all icing, candy and your first drink is on them.
The event runs on Monday, Dec. 1 and Monday, Dec. 8 from 6 to 8 p.m. Tickets are required.
The decorating will be at the 1741 Pub & Grill at 72 Lyman Road, Middlefield.