Bakersville returns to Port Perry for the holiday season

By Tracy Pastic

SCUGOG: A favourite holiday tradition is returning to the Kent Farndale Gallery, at the Scugog Memorial Public Library, this December, as Bakersville. The Animated Gingerbread Village, invites residents to share their creativity and help build a festive community display.

Residents, families, schools, businesses and community groups are encouraged to create their own gingerbread buildings and bring them to the library, between Monday, November 30th and Thursday, December 3rd.

There is no theme this year, giving participants plenty of freedom to think outside the box and create something unique. While gingerbread kits are welcome, original designs are encouraged, as they help make Bakersville a distinctive community attraction.

There is no entry fee, and the event is non-judged, making it an opportunity for everyone to participate, regardless of age or baking experience.

Organizers ask that creations be made primarily of gingerbread, with bases remaining proportional to the size of the building. White bases are preferred, with foil covered in shredded cotton balls or artificial snow suggested as an easy way to create a winter landscape. Participants do not need to add figurines, trees or other decorations, as the library's volunteer “elves” will take care of those finishing touches.

Battery-operated accessories are strongly discouraged. Anyone wishing to illuminate the inside of their creation is asked to leave a small opening at the back or underneath, so one of the library's electrical lights can be installed.

Each building should have a title, and participants are asked to complete a registration form when submitting their entry.

The finished Bakersville village officially opens, to the public, on Saturday, December 5th, offering visitors an opportunity to explore the animated gingerbread display throughout the holiday season. Admission is free.

The display will remain at the library, until Sunday, January 3rd.

Whether creating an elaborate gingerbread masterpiece or a simple holiday home, Bakersville offers an opportunity for the community to share in the fun and creativity of the season.

For more information, visit the Bakersville: Animated Gingerbread Village Facebook page or the Scugog Memorial Public Library website, at www.scugoglibrary.ca.

The library is open Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Tuesdays and Thursdays, from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m., Saturdays, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Sundays, from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.