The George Brown Polytechnic Chef School is celebrating the holiday season early with its 17th Annual Gingerbread Competition. This event will take place on Tuesday, November 18, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the Atrium at 300 Adelaide St. E. The competition invites students to unleash their creativity by using essential baking ingredients such as sugar, flour, and spices to craft delightful edible creations.
A New Theme
This year's challenge invites participants to create gingerbread houses inspired by the theme: "My Favourite Building from a Book or Movie." Students from baking and pastry arts, culinary, and hospitality programs are encouraged to showcase their creativity.
A panel of industry experts will judge the entries, including Colleen Cross, editor of Bakers Journal; Joanne Yolles, judge on Wall of Bakers; and Dufflet Rosenberg, owner of Dufflet Pastries.
"The Gingerbread Competition is one of our favourite traditions," said Tara Ferguson, Associate Dean of the Chef School. "It's a wonderful opportunity for students to showcase their creativity and technical skills, and this year's theme is sure to bring out some truly imaginative designs."
Prizes
This year, the first-place winner will receive a cash prize of $2,000, while the second and third place winners will receive $1,000 and $500, respectively. This competition is sponsored by Dawn Foods. Winners will be announced at the conclusion of the competition.
"Dawn Foods Canada is proud to sponsor this year's Gingerbread Competition at George Brown Polytechnic," said Ken Weir, Director of Marketing Canada, Dawn Foods. "We aim to actively support students as they embark on their culinary and baking journeys. Their creativity and passion for baking inspire us all."
Highlights from Last Year
In 2024, Thomas Villiger, a student in Baking and Pastry Arts Management, won first place for his contemporary interpretation of "The Three Little Pigs." Second place was awarded to Nisheka Samarakkody for her rendition of "Sleeping Beauty's Cottage," while Daniella Llamosas secured third place with her creation inspired by "Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs' Cottage." The People's Choice Award went to Gem Geronimo for her chocolate-covered gingerbread representation of Kasa Jizo.
