Hello Susan!
Thanks for bringing your question our way. As a former cookie decorator, the incredible gingerbread house at
Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa impresses and amazes me every single year. I've spent hours baking, decorating and crafting edible works of art, but never any that could house an entire working sweet shop or fill a stunning resort lobby with the inviting aroma of holiday cookies.
This year marks the 25th Anniversary of this amazing tradition so you won't want to miss it on your upcoming visit. I was able to take it all in over the weekend and can practically still smell the spiced sweetness from home. This year, you'll find character-inspired trees decorating the gingerbread house’s porch, plus 25 hidden Mickeys nestled among 700 pounds of chocolate and over 10,000 pieces of gingerbread. Talk about a sweet feat!
I reached out to a Cast Member who unfortunately could not confirm the last day of operation, but in my experience,
gingerbread displays across the resort usually come down during the first week in January. I believe the 2023 display came down on January 1, 2024, so I'm crossing my fingers that you'll be in time to see it when you arrive. I recommend heading straight to the Grand Floridian so you can soak in the sugar and spice of this impressive display.
If you do happen to miss this tradition, know that the hours and ingredients invested don’t go to waste once the cookie crumbles. Last year, the team at Disney Parks Blog shared
details about gingerbread recycling efforts and how the frosting remnants help busy bees keep their energy up to pollinate, make honey, and buzz along their merry way. I loved reading about this and hope you will too!
I hope this helped, Susan. If we can answer any additional questions please come right back and let us know. Wishing you a sweet-as-can-bee holiday season and a magical visit next year!
Magic and memories,
Amy