How to Host a Gingerbread House Competition for Adults | Fun & Festive Holiday Party Idea

If you’re looking for a holiday party idea that blends creativity, nostalgia, and a whole lot of laughs, hosting an adult gingerbread house competition might be your new favorite tradition. It’s playful, it’s interactive, and it brings out everyone’s inner child—but with the elevated, festive twist grown-ups appreciate. Whether you’re hosting a small gathering or a full-on holiday bash, here’s how to plan a memorable gingerbread house showdown.

How to Host a Gingerbread House Competition for Adults: A Festive Holiday Party Idea

We have always held a gingerbread house competition on the Friday after Thanksgiving when my family comes to visit. It’s become a Christmas tradition at our house, and I thought you would enjoy learning how to host your own gingerbread house competition.

1. Set the Scene: Create a Festive Workstation

Adults appreciate thoughtful details, so set the stage for success.

Ideas to elevate your setup:

Cover tables with kraft paper or festive disposable tablecloths for easy cleanup.
Add holiday music, twinkle lights, and candles to set the mood.
Use individual “building stations” with trays so guests have their own workspace.
Offer aprons—bonus points if they’re holiday-themed or personalized.

Pro tip: Add a small menu card at each station listing the competition categories.

2. Prep the Gingerbread Kits Ahead of Time

To keep the event running smoothly, decide between pre-built houses or DIY build-from-scratch kits.

Easier route: Pre-assembled gingerbread houses (hot-glued together for sturdiness!)
Competitive route: Flat kits where guests build their own structure under a time limit.

Whichever style you choose, make sure each team has:

Royal icing
Assorted candies
Piping bags
Small tools like butter knives, scissors, and skewers

3. Curate a “Grown-Up” Candy & Decor Bar

This is where an adult competition really shines. Think beyond basic gumdrops.

Upgrade the candy bar with:

Chocolate truffles
Sugared cranberries
Peppermint bark pieces
Shimmer sprinkles
Edible glitter
Mini pretzel rods
Marshmallow shapes
Gold foil-wrapped candies

Add festive labels and glass jars to elevate and intentionalize the display.

4. Establish Fun Competition Categories

Give guests multiple chances to win. Choose 3–5 categories so awards feel inclusive.

Category ideas:

Most Creative
Best Structural Engineering
Winter Wonderland Theme
Best Use of Candy
“Needs a Permit” (for the funniest disaster house)
Most Instagram-Worthy

Have judges ready—or let guests vote anonymously with ballots.

5. Don’t Forget the Drinks

A gingerbread build is even better with festive cocktails.

Drink ideas for adults:

Spiked hot chocolate
Peppermint espresso martinis
Gingerbread Old Fashioneds
Mulled wine
Holiday mocktail station

Make it self-serve so you can enjoy the party too.

6. Add a Time Limit (It Makes It Way More Fun!)

Give adults 45–60 minutes to complete their masterpiece.
The countdown adds excitement and friendly chaos—perfect for photos, reels, and the final judging moment.