The 32nd Annual National Gingerbread House Competition is canceled this year after Helene caused catastrophic damage in western North Carolina.

The Omni Grove Park Inn, the event’s organizers, made the decision to cancel the beloved 30-year-old tradition after witnessing the hardships of their community after the destructive storm moved through the Carolinas. 

Even though the event is canceled, those who were competing and participating in the event can display their tasty creations at local businesses in Asheville, North Carolina. Visitors and guests of The Omni Grove Park Inn can view featured gingerbread houses. Hotel officials believes that the community could use such joyous and hopeful creativity. 

To keep the tradition going this year, the hotel will continue “The 12 Days of Gingerbread,” a virtual display of gingerbread creations on the hotel’s Facebook and Instagram pages from Dec. 1 through Dec. 12.

The 32nd Annual National Gingerbread House Competition is a well-sought-after Christmas tradition where contestants come together and build “ginger-works-of-art” that are professionally judged.

The tradition started in 1992 and has grown to be a favorite event by people from across the nation. It has received broadcast recognition on the Food Network and the Travel Channel.