If you had to pick one confection to symbolize the holidays, what would it be? Gingerbread, perhaps? From edible houses adorned with sweets to decorated cookies of varied shapes, there’s just something about it that brings out the festive spirit in us all. Decorating gingerbread treats has been a tradition in many families for years, and it’s a fun activity that kids and parents can enjoy together.
Denver seems to be nuts for gingerbread this holiday season, with workshops, book signings and a display of historic Denver buildings all made from gingerbread. Here is a roundup of the gingerbread events that will make your holiday season a little bit sweeter (and a lot more fun).
Gingerbread House Workshops
Combine graham crackers, candy, and icing to create a special holiday treat. This workshop is designed for children and adults to create together.
Date: December 3–23
Time: Times vary by date
Location:Denver Museum of Miniatures, Dolls and Toys, 1880 Gaylord St., Denver
Cost:$8 member, $10 nonmember
Website:dmmdt.org
Jan Brett Book Event
Join children’s author Jan Brett as she speaks about and signs her new book, Gingerbread Christmas. Reservation required.
Date: December 8
Time: 10 a.m.
Location: Boulder Public Library, 1001 Arapahoe Ave., Boulder
Cost: Free
Website:boulderlibrary.org
Family Workshop: Gingerbread
Learn about the plants that make gingerbread and decorate a gingerbread creation to take home.
Date: December 10 and 11
Time: 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.
Location: Denver Botanic Gardens, 1007 York St., Denver
Cost: $12 non-member adult, $10 member adult; $17 non-member child, $15 member child
Website:botanicgardens.org
Gingerbread House Competition
Enjoy the sights and smells of gingerbread houses resembling historic houses in Denver, built by Art Institute of Colorado culinary students. Visit the History Colorado Center this holiday season and vote for your favorite house.
Date: Through December 11
Time:10 a.m.–5 p.m.
Location:History Colorado Center, 1200 Broadway, Denver
Cost: free
Website:historycolorado.org
Gingerbread Houses
Celebrate the season by decorating gingerbread houses.
Date: December 11 and 18
Time:1–2 p.m. and 3–4 p.m.
Location:Children’s Museum of Denver at Marsico Campus
Cost:$10 member, $20 nonmember, includes admission
Website:mychildsmuseum.org
Gingerbread Tea Service
Enjoy teas by Tea Forte, as well as scones, sandwiches, petit fours and gingerbread cookies. Reservation required.
Date: Through December 18
Time:Saturday and Sunday, noon–2 p.m.
Location:St. Julien Hotel & Spa, 900 Walnut St., Boulder
Cost:$30 adult, $20 child
Website:stjulien.com
Gingerbread House Workshop
Create the perfect gingerbread house in this two-hour DIY workshop.
Date: Through December 21
Time: Times vary by date
Location: My Make Studio, 6460 E. Yale Ave., Ste. E60, Denver
Cost: Check website for details
Website:mymakestudio.com