For the last 15 years, a number of very dedicated ladies have taken time and energy to make a commitment to creating and producing the wonderful gift baskets that are arrayed with the one of a kind gingerbread houses at Gettysburg’s annual Gingerbread Festival.
From the beginning, the intent was to offer gift basket selections to bid on, and engage the visitors attention while walking around viewing, and voting for the best of the original, refreshing, concept gingerbread houses.
The basket ideas, and options, have continued over the years, from almost 40 baskets the first year, to 20 in the last few years because of space limitations; though still a much sought after opportunity every year to find something new and different, and win the auction to own it.
Thanks to the extraordinary and prodigious organizing skills of Beverly Grazulewicz, active in community events and non-profits, assembling a group of devoted, whole hearted ladies who gather to put together colorful, tasteful, and sometimes one of a kind treasures, for last minute gift ideas; including a few “guess what” baskets, vintage offerings, and some goodie baskets too!
An early morning meet up at the arts council, with coffee and sweets, begins the fun of creation. After choosing your basket from a large heap on the floor, stuffing with packing material, then imagining a beautiful, finished product; the artistic, visionary designers move from table to table choosing from donations of every variety, to create each unique masterpiece.
Hours unfold, laughter and camaraderie fill the large room as old friends meet, new friendships are forged, and all are invited to participate. It is a heartfelt gathering that embodies the generous, caring nature of this Adams County community. Loads of kind, generous ladies provide donations and time to produce the gift baskets: Barb, Anne, Rita, Patty, Georgia, Karen, Lydia, Lolly, Marilyn, Eileen, Diane, Laura, Beverly, Chris.
The 15th Annual Gingerbread Celebration will be held at the Arts Education Center on Washington Street: Friday Dec 6, 12 – 7 pm; Saturday Dec. 7, 10 am – 6 pm; Sun, Dec. 8, 10 am – 2 pm, featuring gingerbread house displays, silent auction, children’s activities, bake sale, holiday market, and fun for everyone in the family.
Lolly odea polvinale: writer, teacher, holistic health practitioner, and adventurer of epic proportions; writing for newspapers in Baltimore and Gettysburg; copywriter for WGTY radio; teaching Penn State’s health classes in Adams County; additionally, offering stress reduction-meditation programs through numerous community organizations.