PORTSMOUTH--The holiday season has arrived and with it comes the Portsmouth Historical Society’s 34th Annual Gingerbread House Contest and Exhibition. 

On Friday, Dec. 6, at the Gingerbread Reception and Community Judges’ Awards, the following edible creations have emerged victorious:

• • Adult– Greenhouse at Snug Harbor Farm by Alex Lewis, Ali White, Doreen Lewis
  • Multi-Generational- Bus Adventure by The Reisdorfs
  • Teen- Winter Wonderland by Elin Maffee and Zola Pezzetti
  • Youth- Puddle Dock Barnyard by Cole Dinulos
  • Business or Organization- Holiday Bed and Breakfast by Libby Giordano for Make-A-Wish New Hampshire
  • Best in Show- North Pole Gingerbread Factory also by Libby Giordano

This year’s panel of community judges was made up of representatives from the New Hampshire Art Association, The City of Portsmouth, and Chamber Collaborative of Greater Portsmouth along with exhibition sponsors Kennebunk Savings, Avery Insurance, Bangor Savings Bank, EnviroVantage, and Devine Millimet. Their expertise and discerning eyes have been instrumental in recognizing the outstanding talent on display.

An additional award, determined by museum staff, for Best First-Time Entry went to Christmas at the Greenhouse by Linda Roth. 

“Once again all the museum visitors and staff are blown away by the creativity, skill, and joy behind so many of the gingerbread entries. We love to welcome back past contestants and to be wonderfully surprised by new entrants. As we congratulate our winners, we are so appreciative of everyone who enters and helps make this holiday exhibition possible,” said Sarah Robbitts-Terry, director of Community Engagement.

The Gingerbread exhibition at Portsmouth Historical Society is an ideal outing for families, friends, and enthusiasts of all ages seeking to immerse themselves in the holiday spirit. The Society features a well-curated gift shop perfect for holiday shopping. The Portsmouth Historical Society is open daily through Dec. 30 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. with free admission.

To learn more and see all the winning entries visit: https://portsmouthhistory.org/exhibitions/gingerbread2024/