Featuring whimsical and tempting landscapes, the Gingerbread Village opens Thursday at the Ford Center.
The fifth annual Gingerbread House Village display opens Thursday (Dec. 4) at the Gertrude C. Ford Center for the Performing Arts and runs through Dec. 18.
“The gingerbread village has become an Oxford tradition,” said Kate Meacham, Ford Center marketing director. “It gives the community an opportunity to embrace the holiday spirit. We are thankful to all of our participants for making this delightful display possible.”
When the event started several years ago, only four gingerbread houses were included. The event has grown year-by-year, and this year’s exhibit features about 20 houses.
Many local businesses and organizations are designing and building the gingerbread houses, including Holli’s Sweet Tooth and Oxford Mom and Tots.
“Holli’s Sweet Tooth has enjoyed being a part of the Gingerbread Village for the past five years because it is a fun, unique experience that involves community and giving back,” owner Holli Ratcliffe said. “I love how it has grown from a few houses to many. It’s really a great way for individuals, businesses, classes or civic groups to show off some creativity for the whole L-O-U community to enjoy. And we love that this event supports the local pantry, especially during the holiday season.”
In addition to the display, the exhibit also includes events for children. On Dec. 13, children can meet and take photos with Santa at 1-4 p.m. On Dec. 17, a story time for toddlers is set for 10:30 a.m., and on Dec. 18, big kid story time is slated for 3:30 p.m.
The village display is free and open to the public and performance audiences, but donations of canned goods and non-perishable food item are encouraged. All donated items will benefit the Oxford Pantry and the Ole Miss Food Bank.