WESTFIELD-Gingerbread is a staple in many households during the holidays, and on Dec. 14, area residents of all ages are invited to let their creativity abound during a gingerbread decorating workshop at the Westfield Athenaeum.
The 3 – 4 p.m. program, offered free to the public, will be conducted in the Boys & Girls Library activity room.
“There are still six openings left to participate,” said Olivia Eberli, youth services and young adult librarian.
Patti Brose, youth services librarian, and Eberli are overseeing the “family friendly program” that promises to be fun for all participants.
“We will be making gingerbread houses out of graham crackers and frosting,” said Brose.
Participants will have a variety of treats available to decorate their houses, including candy canes, sprinkles, M&M candy pieces, gum drops and assorted candies.
Gingerbread houses originated in Germany during the 16th century, according to Wikipedia. The elaborate, cookie-walled houses, decorated with foil in addition to gold leaf, became associated with Christmas tradition.
The popularity of gingerbread houses grew when the Brothers Grimm penned the 1812 fairy tale, Hansel and Gretel, about two siblings who stumble upon a house made entirely of treats deep in the forest.
Registration is required to attend the workshop due to space limitations.
For more information, stop by the Boys & Girls Library, call (413) 562-6158, or register online at www.westath.org.
“I think the workshop is a great way for families to take a break from all of the hustle and bustle of holiday preparations and spend some fun, quality time together creating masterpieces,” said Brose.
