After nearly a decade, Gingerbread City is returning to the Fairmont Grand Del Mar.
Join the Epilepsy Foundation of San Diego County for the 33rd Annual Gingerbread City Gala on Thursday, November 19, 2026, as we bring this beloved San Diego tradition back to the Fairmont Grand Del Mar for the first time since 2018.
This exciting return represents more than a change of venue—it marks an important step forward for the Foundation. By bringing Gingerbread City to North County, we are expanding our reach, strengthening connections across the region, and creating new opportunities to engage more of the San Diego community in our mission.
Forward Together celebrates that momentum while honoring the tradition that has made Gingerbread City so special for more than three decades. Guests will experience an unforgettable evening featuring extraordinary gingerbread creations by San Diego’s culinary artists, elegant holiday décor, gourmet dining, live entertainment, and inspiring moments celebrating resilience, community, and hope.
As the Foundation’s largest fundraiser of the year, Gingerbread City provides critical support for programs and services offered at no cost to individuals and families affected by epilepsy—including support groups, education, advocacy, youth programs, scholarships, and more.
We are thrilled to return to the Fairmont Grand Del Mar and begin this exciting next chapter—Forward Together.
Join us as Gingerbread City returns to the Fairmont Grand Del Mar for an unforgettable evening of holiday magic, gourmet dining, dazzling gingerbread creations, and community—all as we move Forward Together.
Showcase your brand, create a memorable guest experience, and help move our mission Forward Together for families affected by epilepsy.
Support the magic behind the scenes, help every detail shine, and give the gift of HOPE as we move Forward Together.
Join the Epilepsy Foundation of San Diego County for a beloved holiday tradition-the Gingerbread City Gala: Forward Together. Experience gingerbread artistry, inspiring stories, and holiday magic as we celebrate how far we’ve come and where we’re going-together.
Black tie optional. Holiday-inspired evening attire with jewel tones, sparkle, and seasonal elegance.
Enjoy live music while admiring gingerbread creations by San Diego’s culinary artists.
Begin with an elegant cocktail reception featuring champagne, cocktails, and passed hors d’oeuvres. Then, enjoy global flavors at chef-curated food stations, followed by decadent desserts.
Bid on exclusive experiences, luxury getaways, fine wines, and unique treasures supporting no-cost epilepsy programs.
*NOTE: Artist information packets regarding our 2026 competition will be provided September 2026.*
For the first time since 2018, Gingerbread City is returning to the Fairmont Grand Del Mar—marking an exciting new chapter for this beloved San Diego holiday tradition.
This year’s theme, Forward Together, celebrates creativity, connection, and the power of community. Through extraordinary gingerbread creations, our artists help bring the magic of Gingerbread City to life while supporting individuals and families affected by epilepsy throughout San Diego County.
As a competing artist, you’ll:
Create dazzling gingerbread masterpieces that inspire and delight hundreds of guests
Gain community recognition for your artistry
Help raise awareness and support for individuals and families living with epilepsy
The packet includes competition categories, prizes, stipends, structure guidelines, judging criteria, and event details.
Whether you’re a returning Gingerbread City artist or joining the competition for the first time, we can’t wait to see what you create as we celebrate this special return to the Fairmont Grand Del Mar and move Forward Together.
Complete the online entry form at https://forms.gle/7kBm16FSe1cLw8UP6 by October 20, 2026.
The form is editable—sign up now and finalize your title and structure details later.
Final titles, descriptions, and inspiration statements are due by Friday, November 6 2026, to be included in the event program.
Your gingerbread creations will be evaluated by an esteemed panel of culinary experts, including:
Chef Jose Barajas
Chef Charity George, known as “The Sugar Sorceress,” is a celebrated San Diego pastry chef, cake artist, and television culinary professional specializing in extraordinary sugar, chocolate, and cake artistry. She is best known for her work on Netflix’s Emmy-nominated Nailed It!, where she created many of the incredible cakes and confections contestants were challenged to recreate.
Her television credits also include appearances on Food Network’s Cake Wars and Halloween Wars, TLC’s Ultimate Cake Off and Fabulous Cakes, as well as extensive work as a culinary consultant and food stylist. She was named one of Dessert Professional’s Top Ten Cake Artists and continues to share her creativity and expertise throughout the culinary industry.
Beyond the kitchen, Chef Charity serves as President of the Board of Icing Smiles, a nonprofit that creates custom celebration cakes and memorable experiences for families affected by a child’s critical illness or medical crisis.
Additional Celebrity Chef Judges to Be Announced!
Our wide array of programs and services serve people living with epilepsy, families, friends and caregivers.
All of our programs and services are offered at no-cost.
