The 32nd Annual Gingerbread House Contest and Exhibition is now open at the Portsmouth Historical Society on the New Hampshire Heritage Museum Trail.
In addition to the exhibition at the Portsmouth Historical Society Galleries at 10 Middle Street, Portsmouth through Friday, December 22, gingerbread houses will be on display at downtown Portsmouth businesses that are participating in a Gingerbread Scavenger Hunt. Portsmouth Historical Society is also hosting a Vintage Christmas Kickoff Party on Friday, December 2 from 5:30-7:30 p.m.
“We are thrilled to once again ring in the holiday season with these special events,” said Sabina Ion, marketing manager.
This year’s theme of fictional places and characters was inspired by two exhibitions in 2022 at Portsmouth Historical Society that featured children’s book illustrations. “Entries in this year’s Contest and Exhibition will include classic characters near and dear to many, magical castles, and favorite fantasy landscapes that are sure to put people in the holiday spirit,” added Ion.
According to Jeff Barraclough, president of the New Hampshire Heritage Museum Trail, the events at Portsmouth Historical Society represent just “a small sampling” of holiday-themed events on The Trail this season. “From Portsmouth up to the Lakes Region and down to Manchester, there is plenty to do on The Trail that celebrates the holidays,” he said.
In addition to the Portsmouth Historical Society in Portsmouth, member institutions on the New Hampshire Heritage Museum Trail are located in New Hampshire’s Lakes Region, Merrimack Valley, and Seacoast.
Founded in 1917, Portsmouth Historical Society is devoted to championing the history, arts, and culture of the Portsmouth region through acquisitions, preservation, museum exhibitions, programs, and publications. To learn more about the Portsmouth Historical Society, visit portsmouthhistory.org.