Confirmed gingerbread professionals and closet bakers, young novices, masters of the dough and others throughout the Midcoast have reportedly started design and construction work on this year’s confectionery entries into the Great Gingerbread Spectacular being staged at the Opera House at Boothbay Harbor this season.

December 14-16 marks the annual convergence of all things gingerbread in the hilarious and often stunningly creative Spectacular that has become a tradition in the Boothbay region.

In past years, nearly 40 houses, castles, local landmarks, camps, lighthouses, and other structures, have been joined by hockey rinks and recycling centers, game boards and snow globes, fashion runways and lobster traps (all fashioned out of gingerbread and sweets) to be judged at the Gingerbread Spectacular. Those interested in creating a gingerbread house into this year’s exhibit should contact the Opera House for details at 207-633-6855. There is no fee to enter, and all creations must be completely edible.

The fun begins at the Dough Ball Party Friday, Dec. 14. The party kicks off after the team of judges has determined both the winner of the coveted Most Spectacular prize, in addition to awards ranging from Most Hilarious to Most Appetizing and from Best Holiday Spirit to best Local Landmark. The awards are announced at the Dough Ball, a play on words mixing up gingerbread dough and the subtle fundraising “dough” sought by the Opera House each winter.

The Dough Ball party allows the creators of the gingerbread structures to mix with the party goers in a night that includes holiday jazz by The Four Snowmen amidst a stunningly decorated Opera House, wonderful hors d’oeuvres provided by the talented Friends of the Opera House, a cash bar, and a silent auction with items ranging from luxury weekend getaways to The Grinch’s Dump Run, from Irish whisky dinners to original artwork by well-known artists, and even a manure fork is available for bidding this year.

All gingerbread house bakers and creators receive a pair of tickets to the Dough Ball. Midcoast residents not up to the task of designing and building a gingerbread entry can still join in the fun at the party by purchasing tickets, $20 in advance or $30 at the door. Tickets are available through the Opera House box office at 207-633-5159 or by visiting the Opera House at 86 Townsend Ave. The party and music start at 7 p.m. Dress for guests is anything from casual to black tie; anything goes on this party night in Boothbay Harbor.

The Dough Ball serves as the warm up event prior to the 6th Annual Gingerbread Spectacular December 15-16. The Spectacular includes the display of all of the gingerbread entries as well as entertainment and a bake sale, appearances by the Gingerbread Man and free cocoa all set amidst one of the most beautiful holiday settings in the state. The doors are open from 10 am-4 pm and there is no charge. Donations are welcome. Visitors may bid on selected gingerbread houses during the Spectacular, which helps to raise funds for the Opera House, and allows residents and visitors alike to take home a little bit of the magic.

Last year’s Most Spectacular award was presented to Susan Brackett for her charming portrayal of The Tooth Fairy’s House and is currently on display in the lobby of the Opera House. A free class for those interested in learning more about building gingerbread houses will be held at the Opera House Tuesday, Nov. 27 at 3 p.m.