Sausalito Optometry Wins People's Choice Award for Gingerbread House Competition

Sausalito Optometry on Caledonia Street has been awarded the People's Choice Award for the 2024 Gingerbread House Tour & Competition. The winning creation, a breathtaking Venetian Palazzo, was crafted by Dr. Maureen McCoy, whose passion for gingerbread artistry has brought joy to the Sausalito community for nearly two decades.

The Sausalito Chamber of Commerce launched the Gingerbread House Tour & Competition in 2006, and Dr. McCoy, an early participant, embraced the challenge despite never having made a gingerbread house before. Inspired by a Martha Stewart cookbook, her first attempt led to valuable lessons (and a scar from making sugar windows). Since then, Dr. McCoy has become known for her intricate and unconventional designs.

“I like to explore new techniques and materials every year,” Dr. McCoy explained. “I try to create nontraditional structures—everything from a retro trailer and lighthouse to an over-water bungalow and this year’s Venetian Palazzo. The joy on visitors’ faces makes it all worthwhile.”

Dr. McCoy’s creations have become a highlight of the competition, with children and families recalling her past masterpieces fondly. In 2022, her work even caught the attention of the Food Network, where she was invited to apply for the Gingerbread Showdown. Though she served as an alternate, the experience further showcased her talent and dedication.

“The sense of community in Sausalito is what makes it so special,” Dr. McCoy shared. “The Sausalito Chamber of Commerce has done an incredible job fostering that spirit, especially during the holidays.”

Thank you to all the members of the public who took the time to cast an official vote for the People's Choice Award!

A Sweet Success: 18th Annual Sausalito Gingerbread House Tour & Competition

This December, the Sausalito Chamber of Commerce brought holiday cheer to life with the 18th Annual Sausalito Gingerbread House Tour & Competition! During December Sausalito’s neighborhoods transformed into a festive wonderland featuring 29 enchanting gingerbread creations, dazzling holiday windows, and a magical atmosphere that delighted residents and visitors alike.

This year’s event showcased a record-breaking number of participants, each crafting designs around four captivating themes: Storybook Tales, Salty Sausalito, Cultural Celebration, and Sea Life Adventures. From whimsical cottages and nautical-inspired designs to displays honoring global traditions, the gingerbread houses highlighted the creativity and talent of Sausalito’s community.

Judges’ Choice 2024 Awards

Storybook Tales
1st: Soxalito
2nd: Heath Ceramics
3rd: Dynamic Energy Crystals

Cultural Celebration
1st: Sausalito Optometry
2nd: Poggio Trattoria
3rd: Copita

Sea Life Adventure
1st: Suzette Café & Bistro
2nd: Hook House
3rd: Love Marin

Salty Sausalito
1st: Amour Vert
2nd: Salito's Crab House
3rd: Le Garage

Architecturally Authentic (Judges Category)
1st: Tyreus Design Studio
2nd: J. Roland Salon

In addition to the Judges' Choice Awards, the People's Choice Award Winner will be announced in January, with participants casting their votes for their favorite gingerbread creation. See all the photos and videos on our social media channels or website. Photos by Alicia Yjord-Jackson.

Thank you to everyone who helped make this year’s Gingerbread House Tour a success! We're already getting lots of wonderful feedback on making next year's event even more magical!