Courtesy Photo Levi Goebel, of Harborside Cycle and Sports, shows off one of the gingerbread kits that the store will enter into the Jingle Jamboree fundraiser. The store was the first to purchase a kit and enter the contest which will help local foster families.

ALPENA – The Jingle Jamboree on Dec. from noon until 5 p.m. is a festive community event that will feature two exciting Gingerbread Showdown competitions — one for local businesses and one for families — all to support Northeast Michigan Foster Families.

Families and local businesses can join the fun by building their own gingerbread house for the Family Gingerbread Showdown. Each entry includes a full gingerbread kit and a chance to win prizes, while supporting a great cause.

The public can vote on the winners for $1 per vote.

Family Gingerbread House Details:

– Pick up your kit: until Dec. between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. at the Northeast Michigan Family Resource Center located at 1044 US-23 North in Alpena.

If those hours don’t work, email Vanalmenl@nemifrc.org to arrange another time for pickup.

– Drop off your completed house on Dec. 5 between 2-6 p.m. at the Alpena County Library, where all family entries will be displayed during the Jingle Jamboree.

If transportation is a barrier, the Family Resource Center is happy to help. Email Clearwoodl@nemifrc.org to coordinate assistance.

Businesses across Downtown Alpena are also joining in the fun with their own gingerbread creations, which will be on display in local storefronts during the event.

– On Dec. 6th, visitors can stroll through downtown Alpena to admire all the gingerbread houses — then cast votes for their favorites.

One dollar equals one vote, and Family Resource Center staff will be downtown selling voting tickets. All proceeds benefit Northeast Michigan Foster Families.

– Three lucky voters will also win special prizes – so be sure to put your name on your ticket!

The winning family of the Gingerbread Showdown will take home a Family Day Basket filled with family fun goodies, including four movie passes courtesy of Sanctuary Cinema, a $100 Applebee’s gift card, family games, a cozy blanket, a sugar cookie kit, and more.

In addition to the Gingerbread Showdown, families can enjoy visiting with Santa, a downtown scavenger hunt , which has a grand prize of elk viewing, dinner, and wine tasting experience in Hillman, and other festive surprises throughout the day.

Want to get in on the Gingerbread fun and win big?

Scan the QR code below to sign up — we have registration options for families and for businesses call or text (989) 590-9100 to reserve your spot.

Learn more at the Northeast Michigan Family Resource Center Facebook page.