Southern Living magazine had a story in its December 2015 issue that named the Extravaganza among the “South’s best holiday experiences.” The Gingerbread Extravaganza was one of only four events selected. The brief, but highly visible article mentioned that amateur and professional creations were shown side by side. They also gave a nod to the numerous historic structures created from gingerbread and confection. Also mentioned was that the “setting is just as stunning as the candy,” paying tribute to the Extravaganza site, the society’s 1887 Old St. Andrew’s. View the article here.
Important for the society is the fact that the Extravaganza embraces our mission to educate and inspire the greater Jacksonville community to value its history, by fostering understanding of how the region’s past shapes our present. Many of the gingerbread entries, as pointed out by Southern Living, feature local historic buildings or sites. Among the gingerbread houses this are City Hall (as Cohen Brothers), Fire Station Number One, Jessie Ball duPont Center (Haydon Burns Library), and many other local structures. Of course, the event is located in our National Register Old St. Andrew’s and tours are offered at the Merrill House Museum next door.
The Extravaganza will be held at Old St. Andrews annually. Proceeds from the Extravaganza benefit the Society’s year-round educational programs.
Visit our Gingerbread Extravaganza page to learn more!
