The Southern California (SoCal) Gingerbread Challenge 

It's almost time for the sweetest structural engineering event of the year—the 2026 SoCal Gingerbread Challenge! Join SEAOSC in Orange County, this December for a whimsical, family-friendly event conveniently located in Discovery Cube OC in Santa Ana.

What Is the Southern California Gingerbread Challenge?

Organized by the Structural Engineers Association of Southern California (SEAOSC), the SoCal Gingerbread Challenge is an annual holiday tradition encouraging engineering professionals across Southern California to get creative and construct elaborate but structurally sound buildings from gingerbread, candy, and icing. After an intense build night, the gingerbread creations are put on public display until January 2027 as part of Discovery Cube's winter exhibit based around gingerbread science, during which the public is invited to vote for their favorites.

Why You Should Attend the 2026 Southern California Gingerbread Challenge?

Here are a few reasons why you should bring your loved ones to the 2026 Gingerbread Challenge:

  • Marvel at the breathtaking gingerbread structures on display. From intricately detailed movie sets to imaginary villages, you'll be amazed by creativity and craftsmanship.
  • This event is perfect for all ages. Bring your children, grandchildren, a date, or friends to create cherished memories with loved ones.

To inquire about scheduling a school field trip to the building day, and award day please email seaosc@seaosc.org Limited spaces available.

Sponsorship opportunities are available! To inquire about sponsorship opportunities, please e-mail seaosc@seaosc.org