Boothbay Harbor’s holiday traditions abound, including the annual Gingerbread Spectacular coming to the historic Opera House Dec. 13-15.

For the past 18 years mid-December has seen the exhibition of creative gingerbread houses and castles built by novices and seasoned chefs. All are displayed against the backdrop of the beautifully decorated Opera House stage, which also serves as the setting for the Holiday Potluck and Carol Sing on Wednesday, Dec. 18.

During the Gingerbread Spectacular prizes will be awarded for not only the Most Spectacular, but also the Best Traditional Gingerbread House Design, the Most Hilarious, Best Holiday Spirit, Best Representation of a Local Landmark, Best Youth Entry, and more. The 2024 esteemed judging panel includes Sue Norton, Nicci Kimball, Lenore Imhof and veteran judge Jen Correa.

Winners will be announced when the Spectacular opens to the public at 1 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 13. Many of the gingerbread creations will be available for sale via the gingerbread auction.

Admission to the Gingerbrea Spectacular is free, but donations are deeply appreciated. The beloved annual event is made possible in part thanks to sponsorship from The First National Bank. The Spectacular is open to the public on Friday, Dec. 13 from 1 to 6 p.m., on Saturday, Dec. 14 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., and on Sunday, Dec. 15 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Free parking is available in the Opera House parking lot.

The Friends of the Opera House will have a bounty of baked goods including cakes, pies, cookies and breads available for sale, and the Friends table will also feature a raffle beginning on Friday afternoon, as soon as the doors open. Raffle items include handmade items, gift certificates to local businesses, original art and more – all of it appropriate for gift giving this season! All funds raised go to support the non-profit Opera House’s maintenance and operations.

Holiday music during the Gingerbread Spectacular will be provided by Anne Barker, Genie O’Connell and others on Saturday afternoon beginning at 1 p.m. The Opera House’s chief elf, Kevin Kiley, may also play piano once all the decorating is complete.

On Wednesday, Dec. 18 the Opera House will open at 5:45 p.m. for the annual Holiday Potluck and Carol Sing, also set amidst the beautifully decorated performance venue. This event is free but all are asked to bring a main dish or side dish for the 6 p.m. supper followed by piano music and holiday songs performed by Kevin Kiley and his troupe of holiday voices.

Questions about any upcoming event can be directed to the box office at 633-5159.