While the national spotlight has frequently been on the judiciary branch over recent months, in the Midcoast the attention now shifts to the naming of judges for the upcoming Gingerbread Spectacular at the Opera House. The annual Spectacular will take place Dec. 14-16, opening with the Dough Ball Party and Awards Ceremony on Friday, Dec. 14, doors opening at 5:30 p.m.

This year’s gingerbread creations are arriving from as far away as New York City, while others will be traveling from Belfast, Bingham and Augusta in addition to several local deliveries from Boothbay region bakers and designers. The judging will take place behind closed doors on Dec. 14 with the awards for Most Hilarious, Most Creative, Best Local Landmark, Best Youth Entry, Best Traditional Gingerbread House Design and Most Spectacular being announced that Friday night amidst the music and hors d’oeuvres at the Dough Ball.

Veteran judge and seasoned gingerbread house maker Kit Sherrill has been named Chief Justice of the 2018 gingerbread panel.  He will be joined by confectionery professional and Orne’s Candy Store owner John Webster,  interior finishing expert Edie Deen, gingerbread house insurance agent Rob Wheeler of J. Edward Knight Insurance, and gingerbread house mortgage maven Brenda Blackman of The First National Bank in Boothbay Harbor round out the High Court of Gingerbread.

Bakers and designers eager to have their entry judged a winner may bribe the judges, with or without success, and all bribes will become the property of the Opera House. The Dough Ball is the winter fundraiser for the non-profit Opera House.

For those who haven’t yet started creating their gingerbread entry, there is still time. Interested individuals are encouraged to contact the Opera House for the competition details at 633-6855. There is no fee to enter.

The Dough Ball Party & Awards Ceremony kicks off the Gingerbread Spectacular weekend, part of the Boothbay Lights Festival. Tickets for the Dough Ball are available through the box office at 633-5159. The Gingerbread Spectacular opens to the public - free! -  on Saturday, Dec. 15 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. - same hours apply on  Sunday, Dec. 16.

All ages are encouraged to come see the magical creations, listen to the music, enjoy the Friends of the Opera House Holiday Bake Sale, play the big piano and more. The Gingerbread Spectacular is sponsored by The First National Bank.