Gingerbread structures deck the halls of Purdue Memorial Union each December, displaying the talents of Purdue Dining Services employees who participate in an annual construction contest featuring the sweet treat. Held since 2012, the competition is judged by a panel of university employees and students, who rank the designs on overall appearance, originality, decorating detail, difficulty, staff participation, and adherence to each year’s chosen theme. The public is invited to vote on the people’s choice category. 

Dining staff begin crafting the displays in November. Sheets of gingerbread, an icing recipe, and a small budget for supplies are provided to each team, and student workers must complete at least 50 percent of the design and construction. 

Each project is primarily composed of gingerbread and edible products. Entries can incorporate electrical components, but all motors and batteries must be hidden.

Prizes are awarded for the first-, second-, and third-place entries as well as the people’s choice selection. The first-place and people’s choice winners receive a traveling trophy. Once voting concludes, the gingerbread creations are transported back to each facility, where they are proudly displayed through the end of the semester.