The 17th Annual Gingerbread Build-Off
Architecture Center Houston will host the 17th Annual Gingerbread Build-Off at Levy Park on Saturday, December 12, 2026. Competing teams will create 100% edible, architectural masterpieces using gingerbread, candy, and all sorts of other sweet treats (of which leftovers will be composted)! More than 4,000 spectators are expected to attend and cheer on the teams, play in the kids’ construction zone, and lawn games! All of that entertainment is free and open to the public!
Who can participate?
Team registration is open to local architects, designers, engineers, high school and college students, and holiday enthusiasts of all kinds, seeking fame and fortune with their sugary structures.
Competition Categories
The 2026 Competition Category – Once Upon A Gingerbread
Every great story starts with “once upon a time”… and ends with a little icing! Bring your favorite tales, characters, and imaginary worlds to life through gingerbread, candy, and creativity. Whether inspired by a childhood classic, a legendary adventure, or a story of your own making, create a sweet scene that deserves its own happily-ever-after.
Teams may also compete in one of the other categories: Architectural Icons, Tallest Standing Structure, Best Holiday Themed, Best Non-Holiday themed, and Best Houston-centric.
Team registration for the 2026 event is open to local architecture firms, design professionals, students, and enthusiasts seeking the coveted B.A. Riesner Grand Prize for their edible structure.
EVENT DAY SCHEDULE:
8:30am–9:30am Gingerbread Team Check-in / Setup
10:00am–3:00pm Gingerbread Team Competition Building
10:00am–4:00pm Kids’ Construction Zone and Scavenger Hunt
10:00am-4:00pm Lawn Games
4:30pm–5:30pm Gingerbread Team Award Winners Announced
TEAM REGISTRATION IS OPEN:
Team registrations and additional materials must be completed by Saturday, November 21, 5pm.
Register your team here.
Additional materials can be purchased here.
Team registration details and rules can be found here.
VOLUNTEERING
Volunteer to help with the Gingerbread Build-Off! ArCH needs help with the Kids Construction Zone, as well as setup/teardown of the event. Email jennifer@aiahouston.org. Educational and civic groups welcome!
SPONSORS
Architecture Center Houston is funded in part by the City of Houston through the Houston Arts Alliance.
Icing on the Roof
Candy Cane
