WINNERS NAMED — Winners in this year’s Christmas on Main Street Gingerbread Contest gathered in the Weirton Room of the Millsop Community Center, Tuesday afternoon, to be recognized and receive their prizes. Officials noted there were 22 entries across three categories this year, with prizes also awarded for People’s Choice and Committee Choice. -- Craig Howell

WEIRTON — Hard work and creativity paid off for the winners of this year’s Christmas on Main Street Gingerbread House Contest.

“Each year, the creations get better and better,” said Assistant City Manager DeeAnn Pulliam, who noted there were 22 entries included in this year’s competition.

This year’s competition featured five categories.

Participants were able to enter one of three, selecting either Original, Group Effort Youth, or Group Effort Adult. The winner of the fourth category — People’s Choice — was selected through the votes of area residents visiting the contest display area in the Millsop Community Center during Saturday’s Christmas on Main Street festivities.

Members of the Christmas on Main Street Committee also made a selection for a fifth award.

The winners included:

Original: Allison Bracken, whose creation depicted the former Margaret Manson Weir Memorial Pool;

Group Effort Youth: Ashton Beckart and The “A” Team, who created Santa’s workshop;

Group Effort Adult: Kate and Robbie Snow, whose savory creation showcases a wintry scene with a house, tree and train;

People’s Choice: Jacky Selman and the Selman siblings, depicting the Nativity;

Committee’s Choice: Julia Bayne, with a Nativity.

“Knowing the pool was so beloved; it was an easy choice,” said Bracken, who included lights on the pool and in the trees for her display.

While prizes are at stake in the contest, many of those entering also see it as an opportunity to bond as family and friends.

“It’s a great memory maker,” said Beckart.

Looking at the different entries also brought joy to the competitors and visitors.

“I love seeing the creativity,” said Kate Snow. “It gets better every year.”

Prize packages for this year’s contest were made possible through the support of Taylor & Makricostas Law Offices, Theo Yianni’s, Nick’s Auto Sales & Rebuilders, Primanti Bros., Gus’s Goodies, Fiesta Tableware Co., Sweet Temptations Pastry Shop, DeFelice Bros. Pizza, Papa John’s Pizza, and Sheetz.

Pulliam said the organizing committee is always looking for ideas to help grow the contest, and looks forward to seeing what creations are brought forward next year.