Sausalito, California — This holiday season, join us as the Sausalito Chamber of Commerce proudly presents the 18th Annual Sausalito Gingerbread House Tour & Competition!  From December 8th through December 31st, Sausalito will come alive with dazzling gingerbread creations, sparkling holiday windows, and a festive atmosphere that captures the magic of the season.

This year’s gingerbread houses promise to be more enchanting than ever, with a record number of participants designing their displays around four captivating themes: Storybook Tales, Salty Sausalito, Cultural Celebration, and Sea Life Adventures. From whimsical fairytale cottages and nautical-inspired designs to displays that honor global traditions, each gingerbread house offers a unique glimpse into the artistry and imagination of Sausalito’s talented community.

Stroll through Sausalito’s business neighborhoods—including downtown, Bridgeway, Caledonia Street, "Old Town," and the north end of town—and admire the creativity of local merchants, businesses, and residents. In addition to these stunning gingerbread displays, participating merchants will decorate their windows with festive holiday scenes, twinkling lights, and seasonal décor, transforming our town into a holiday wonderland.

New for 2024, the tour will feature special holiday offers from participating merchants and restaurants! As you explore, take advantage of exclusive discounts, seasonal menus, and festive beverages. Warm up with a specialty drink, sample holiday-inspired dishes, and shop for unique gifts—all while soaking in the holiday cheer.

Event Highlights:

• Gingerbread House Tour: Marvel at gingerbread houses crafted with meticulous detail, each following one of four magical themes:
  • Storybook Tales: Relive classic fairy tales and beloved children’s stories through delightful gingerbread scenes.
  • Salty Sausalito: Discover gingerbread creations inspired by Sausalito’s maritime history and waterfront charm.
  • Cultural Celebration: Experience the richness of holiday traditions from around the world through intricate, culturally-inspired designs.
  • Sea Life Adventures: Dive into undersea worlds and ocean-inspired gingerbread displays that capture the beauty of marine life.
• Festive Window Displays: Sausalito’s shop windows will sparkle with lights, holiday decorations, and themed displays, adding an extra touch of enchantment to the tour.
• People’s Choice Award: Don’t forget to cast your vote for the best gingerbread house! Maps and ballots are available at participating merchants or can be downloaded from our website at www.sausalito.org.
• Special Holiday Offers: Enjoy seasonal menus, festive cocktails, and exclusive discounts at participating restaurants and shops throughout town.

Meet the "Official Judges" of the Gingerbread House Competition and Tour

Before the coveted People’s Choice Award is decided, the official competition will be evaluated by a prestigious panel of judges. This year’s Gingerbread House Competition and Tour brings together a lineup of distinguished experts, each a celebrated figure in the North Bay's vibrant culinary and cultural scene:

• Leanne Battelle, an acclaimed restaurant and food columnist for the Marin Independent Journal, recently launched The Real Deal Marin, a fresh and innovative foodie website. Her expertise in culinary trends is second to none.
• Kevin Blum, owner of The Marin Dish, curates a weekly guide showcasing where to Eat, Drink & Play in Marin County. His keen insights make him a trusted authority for North Bay foodies and adventurers.
• Jeff Burkhart, the dynamic personality behind The Barfly Online, is a seasoned author, columnist, and local bartender. His deep ties to Marin’s nightlife add a unique and flavorful perspective to the judging panel.
• Daedalus Howell, editor of Pacific Sun and North Bay Bohemian, is a true Renaissance man. In addition to his journalistic prowess, Daedalus is a rising filmmaker, with his recent film Werewolf Serenade earning acclaim at North Bay cinemas.
• Sean Saylor, owner of Saylor’s Restaurant & Bar, is not only a celebrated restaurateur but also a prominent influencer. His industry knowledge and creative vision bring an added layer of sophistication to the judging process.
• Alicia Yjord-Jackson, a real estate powerhouse with Torben and Alicia Real Estate, is a well-known influencer with a strong presence in both Sausalito and Seattle. Her eye for style and community engagement makes her an invaluable addition to the panel.

Together, this elite panel brings a wealth of knowledge, creativity, and passion to the competition, ensuring an unforgettable celebration of artistry and craftsmanship.