KaleidoScoops Gingerbread Contest: A Delightful Holiday Tradition

Colorful gingerbread houses covered in snow made of frosting and gum drops  brighten the store window of KaleidoScoops Ice Cream shop in downtown Crystal Lake.

Some of the gingerbread creations have been carefully built by masters of the art of baking and decorating such as one whimsical tiny carousel. The carousel's gingerbread horses are battery-powered to rotate just like the life-sized version.

Other candy-topped houses were created by smaller hands, those with a carefree touch for the children's gingerbread division.

All the displays are part of the 10th annual Gingerbread Contest hosted by KaleidoScoops, 53 N. Williams St. This year's contest started Nov. 23, and winners are expected to Dec. 18, according to the contest rules.

The competition typically draws between 15-20 entries, which can be admired by KaleidoScoops' customers or shoppers on the street. KaleidoScoops owner Michelle Howell coordinates the gingerbread event each year just for the jolly old fun of it.

Stop by to see the displays - including the Patch gingerbread house - through Christmas Eve.

Got a gingerbread creation you'd like to share with Patch?

Simply upload a photograph of your edible artwork to this story by clicking on the "Upload Photos and Videos" link at the top of this article.