Gingerbread Build-Off competition set for Dec. 8

The Architecture Center of Houston, in partnership with Buffalo Bayou Partnership, will host the fourth annual Gingerbread Build-Off from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 8 at Herman Square at City Hall.

According to a center press release, as many as 30 teams will compete in the build-off. Awards will be given in categories including first runner up, second runner up, Best Architectural Icon, Tallest Standing Structure, Best Traditionally Themed, Best Non-Traditionally Themed, Most Creative Interpretation of Materials and Public Favorite.

An independent panel of food, design, art and architecture professionals will judge the gingerbread buildings.

The build-off schedule begins at 9 a.m. with team check-in. Competition begins at 10 a.m. and the kid's construction zone will open. Between noon and 2 p.m., Santa will be on-site. Judging begins at 3 p.m., along with public favorite voting, followed by awards at 4 p.m.

The event is free and open to the public.

Local food trucks, including It's a Wrap, Ladybird, Porch Swing Desserts and Monster PBJ, will be on hand serving food to attendees and competitors.

Hermann Square is at 900 Smith St., Houston.

After the build-off, selected competitors and winners will have their gingerbread buildings on display in a one-week exhibition from Monday to Friday, Dec. 10-14.

The display, which is free, will be housed at Architecture Center Houston, 315 Capitol, Suite 120, Houston and open Monday through Thursday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. and Friday, 9 a.m.-3 p.m.