Gingerbread, the cookie people love to transform into candy-covered architecture at Christmas time, will overtake the Rec Center next week.
Two events are planned: a one-hour tutorial on gingerbread house decorating Dec. 18 and a gingerbread house contest Dec. 20-22.
Youths wishing to learn decorating techniques are invited to join the Monday class taught by Kelly McQuiston. From 6-7 p.m., she will teach how to assemble houses, demonstrate icing techniques and share decorating ideas.
While the class is open to people of all ages, it is geared for youngsters. Adults should accompany children under 6.
Sign up at the Rec Center front desk. The $15 fee pays for everything, including a house and decorating supplies.
Class space is limited. Therefore, preregistration is encouraged. If space is available on Monday, youth coordinator Kym Quinn said they will accept last-minute sign-ups.
You don’t have to participate in the class to enter the annual gingerbread decorating contest, open to people of all ages.
Quinn said the Rec Center generally receives at least 25-30 entries. They will be on display in the hallway next Wednesday-Friday from early morning until closing time. Anyone may view the display and participate in the public judging. Categories include most festive, most traditional, western theme, most colorful and best in show.
If you’d like to enter, there’s no need to roll out dough and preheat the oven. Using premade kits is acceptable. In fact, Quinn said most entries are kits with “a little extra added.”
Local businesses sponsor awards such as a coupon this year donated by Papa Murphy’s for free cookie dough.
There is no fee to enter or judge the contest. Judging ends at 1 p.m. next Friday. Awards will be announced at 4 p.m. that day. Houses must be removed by the weekend.
“We encourage the community to participate, and hopefully stop in at Rec Center and use the facility while here,” Quinn said.
Call (307) 587-0400 for more information.
