Elaborate toyscapes made of candy and gingerbread are on display in downtown Seattle this month — part of a tradition that stretches back more than three decades.
Zoom in: The Gingerbread Village at the Sheraton Grand Seattle hotel is back through Jan. 1, with intricate architectural displays that go far beyond your typical gingerbread house.
This year's theme, "Toy Shop Time Machine," means the level of whimsy is dialed up to 100.
What to expect: Four main displays are showcased this year, including ones with captivating moving parts.
While entry is free, you're asked to vote for your favorite gingerbread creation by contributing a small donation (there's a QR code for this). The proceeds benefit Type 1 diabetes research.
One of the elaborate gingerbread landscapes on display at the Sheraton Grand Seattle. Photo: Melissa Santos/Axios
What to expect: Sometimes there is a bit of a line. In past years, I've found the wait to be short or nonexistent if you go early in the day on a weekend, or on a weekday.
They give out miniature candy canes to kids, which I've found helps tame kids' impatience.
Stop by: 1400 Sixth Ave. (in the Sheraton Grand hotel lobby). 9am-9pm Sunday-Thursday; 9am-11pm Friday and Saturday.