Gilmanton resident wins Best in Show at Portsmouth’s 35th Annual Gingerbread Contest

PORTSMOUTH — The holiday season has arrived and with it comes the Portsmouth Historical Society’s 35th Annual Gingerbread House Contest and Exhibition. 

On Dec. 5, at the Gingerbread Reception and Community Judges’ Awards, the following edible creations emerged victorious: 

• Multi-Generational: Encanto by Judy Monahan, Amy Monahan, Josie Monahan, and Sandi Strzepek

• Teen: Merry Grinchmas by Little Clipper Preschool and Portsmouth High School Careers in Education Students 

• Youth: Winter in Paris by Cole Dinulos 

• Business or Organization: Frank Lloyd Wright’s Fallingwater by Salvage Modern: Vintage Furniture

• Adult and Best in Show: Ode to Celia Thaxter by Sandi Strzepek, of Gilmanton 

More gingerbread creators were celebrated with several awards determined by museum staff: 

• Best First-Time Entry went to Cabin in the Woods by Kimberly Huber and Nautilus Experiment by  Tarci, Taylor, and Renee. 

• Most on Theme went to Picasso Face Study No. 1 by Mary Ellen Hoerman. 

“This year’s theme, The Great Gingerbread Experiment, really came to life in extraordinary ways. Our visitors and  staff are blown away by how boldly creators embraced experimentation: trying new materials, techniques, and  designs they’ve never used before. We’re always thrilled to see longtime participants return, and have been equally  delighted by the daring ideas from newcomers,” said Director of Community Engagement Sarah Robbitts-Terry. 

There is still time to vote for the People’s Choice Awards for Most Whimsical, Most Creative Material, Best Attention to Detail, and Best in Show. Voting concludes on Dec. 17.

The Portsmouth Historical Society is open daily through Dec. 30 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and houses will remain on display for the month. For more information, visit PortsmouthHistory.org.