Sweet-tooth architects from across the nation are being invited to Victoria to help the homeless in the first Canadian National Gingerbread Showase.
The Inn at Laurel Point plays host to the showcase from Nov. 24 to Jan. 1. It is Victoria's fourth gingerbread competition, but the first time organizers have made it a national event.
The Gingerbread Showcase is part of an effort to assist Habitat for Humanity, which helps families in need with affordable home ownership.
At the Gingerbread Showcase, professional and amateur chefs become dessert architects erecting elaborate, intricate gingerbread houses, decorated with all manner of sweet treats. The only rule is all building material must be edible.
These creations, some of which have stood more than a metre in height, will be on display for the public. The Inn at Laurel Point has even put together a special $124, one-night Gingerbread package for guests to enjoy the event.
Ian Powell, managing director of the Inn at Laurel Point, said the inspiration for the event was almost too obvious.
"It's houses, right?" said Powell. "We thought Habitat for Humanity builds houses - the connection was just too good."
Visitors can vote for their favourite in exchange for a donation to Habitat for Humanity.
Habitat works on the principle that the cycle of poverty can be broken with affordable housing and the promotion of home ownership. It achieves this by partnering with community volunteers and businesses to build and renovate homes.
People who receive assistance are asked to help to build these homes, called sweat equity, work for the organization in its stores and other jobs, and take over no-interest mortgage payments established according to their income.
Yolanda Meijer, executive director of Habitat for Humanity Victoria, said last year the event started to come into its own as a showcase of gingerbread construction and fundraiser for the organization.
The candy creations, constructed by amateurs, schoolkids and professional chefs, were above and beyond anything seen before, Meijer said.
"They are beyond magnificent," she added.
Meijer said it is hoped the event can grow and become a distinct and well-known event, drawing in entrants and visitors from Victoria and beyond while assisting and promoting Habitat for Humanity.
For more information, go to laurelpoint.com and habitatvictoria.com.
