Sponsored by Sabine State Bank
November 9, 2026 - The Shelby County Christmas Committee invites local bakers, families and businesses to help start a sweet hometown tradition at its First Annual Gingerbread House Baking Competition, sponsored by Sabine State Bank.
From candy-covered cottages to a gingerbread version of a favorite hometown landmark, there is plenty of room to get creative. Entries may be made from scratch or from a gingerbread kit. Pre-assembled kits are not allowed. The competition has 3 division, Children (under the age of 13), Youth/Adult (ages 14 +) and Groups/Teams. Entries will not be judged on taste.
Drop off your fully assembled and decorated gingerbread house, and a completed entry form to the Fannie Brown Booth Memorial Library December 1st – 4th.
The Gingerbread Houses will be on display at the Fannie Brown Booth Library, in the Redditt Room. Judging will take place December 7th – December 17th. A panel of judges will select the winners for the Grand Gingerbread Champion and Best Craftsmanship. There will also be a People’s Choice award, $1 per vote with an unlimited amount of votes. All proceeds will go back into the Shelby County Christmas Fund.
The community is invited to see the gingerbread houses on display, and vote for your favorite, at the Library during regular library hours from December 7th – 17th.
For more information, contest rules and an entry form contact Heather Chambliss Chambliss at 936-591-1196, or the Shelby County Chamber of Commerce at 936-598-3682 or email at info@shelbycountychamber.com. Entry forms are also available at the Fannie Brown Booth Memorial Library. There is no entry fee.
