What is the history of the festival?
The Gingerbread House Festival was founded by Main Street resident and ardent Friends supporter, Bonnie Grover, in 2010. The past fourteen festivals were held either at Wood Memorial Library on Main Street in South Windsor or the Promenade Shops at Evergreen Walk. In 2017 annual themes were implemented to give visitors a different experience year after year. Past themes include A Storybook Holiday, Winter Birds, Peace on Earth, Shiny & Brite, the Nutcracker and Snowed Inn. This year, in 2025, the festival is moving to a new home due to circumstances that will be revealed soon, along with many other important announcements.
Why won’t the festival be held at Wood Memorial Library?
There are multiple reasons why, but we unfortunately can’t disclose them yet.
Can I display a gingerbread house?
Yes! We welcome gingerbread house submissions from all members of the community. There is no fee, and it is not a juried competition, but your creation might be recognized for its creativity, use of color or similar! Register your house(s) here.
Can I volunteer to help with the festival?
Yes, please yes! We rely on a huge number of volunteers to make this festival possible year after year. Volunteer sign-up forms will be posted soon.
Can I win a house to take home?
Yes! Any house with a red box you can win by purchasing raffle tickets.
Can I play live music at the festival?
Yes! Please note that we do not have funds to pay performers. Email us with the following information
- Your name or name of group (and name of performers if you’d like)
- No more than one paragraph bio about your group and the music you play
- Your website, social media links, etc. (if applicable)
- A picture!
Where do I learn more about The Watershed History Collective?
Formerly known as the “Friends,” we recently rebranded to become The Watershed History Collective. Visit our NEW website at www.TheWatershedCollective.org.
Where can I follow along with the festival in real time?
Check out Gingy the Gingerbread Man’s antics on Facebook and Instagram. His festival location reveal video can be viewed here.
Thank you to our presenting sponsor!
