Get Your Gingerbread House On: Host A Sweet Holiday Celebration

Let the baking begin! No holiday season is complete without a gathering filled with frosting, gingerbread, candies, and more.  Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a first-timer, building and decorating gingerbread houses brings everyone together for a time filled with laughter, teamwork, and festive cheer. Check out our guide for hosting your very own gingerbread house-making event!

Gathering Supplies

Gathering your supplies is the first step in preparing for your gingerbread house-making time. You have two main options: purchasing gingerbread kits or making your own gingerbread houses from scratch.

Gingerbread Kits are a convenient choice for anyone looking to simplify the process. These kits typically come with pre-baked gingerbread walls, roof pieces, frosting, and various decorations. They’re perfect for a quick, easy setup and help make a smooth start to the fun.

On the other hand, Homemade Gingerbread Houses give you more creative freedom. You can bake your own gingerbread pieces, which may take a bit more time and effort, but they allow for a fully customized design. Homemade royal icing can be used as both glue and decoration, offering endless possibilities for your structure and decorations.

Decorating Supplies

Most gingerbread kits have essential decorations, but you can always get more creative by adding extra candy and goodies. Stock up on gumdrops, candy canes, chocolate bars, and sprinkles for a colorful display. If you’re feeling adventurous, include edible glitter, frosting in different colors, or even marshmallows, licorice, and pretzels to add fun shapes and textures to your designs. The more variety in your supplies, the more room there is for imagination!

Setting the Scene: Make It Festive!

Set the scene with some festive touches to get everyone in the holiday spirit. Holiday music is a must, think classic Christmas carols or popular seasonal tunes to play in the background. 

Provide holiday-themed snacks like cookies, unique snack mixes, etc. You could also have holiday-themed drinks for guests to sip while they work on their gingerbread masterpieces.

Pajamas, Santa hats, or ugly Christmas sweaters can all add to the festive atmosphere and provide some laughs throughout the evening. Set the mood with holiday lights or a cozy fireplace to make your space feel warm and inviting.

Tips for a Successful Gingerbread House Event

A little planning can go a long way for your gingerbread spectacular to go smoothly. Consider having clear instructions for building and decorating, especially if you have guests who have never made gingerbread houses before. Break down the tasks so everyone can pitch in, whether that’s building, frosting, or decorating.

Be sure to encourage creativity. There’s no “right” way to design a gingerbread house. Let your guests’ imaginations run wild with unconventional designs, bright colors, and different decorations. 

Add an extra layer of excitement with a few themed challenges throughout the night. Consider awarding prizes for categories like “Most Creative Design,” “Most Colorful House,” or “Best Traditional Gingerbread House.” Prizes can be as simple as a gift card to a local store, a small holiday decoration, or even a custom gingerbread kit for next year’s event.

Ready to Make Holiday Memories in Your Dream Home?

The Colony offers the perfect setting to create lasting traditions with your loved ones. Contact us today and find your ideal space to call home!