Springfield Museums is pleased to announce the Gingerbread: Flour to Fables exhibition. In this 13th annual holiday exhibit, visitors will step into a fantastical world of fables where flour, sugar, and spice have been blended and baked to bring classic stories to life. Colorful and sweet displays tell the stories of clever and bold animals as they go on adventures and learn important lessons.
“We were inspired by Aesop’s fables,” said Larissa Murray, Director of Education and the organizer of this beloved annual event. “We loved the idea of the fox and the grapes, the tortoise and the hare, and the country mouse and city mouse interpreted in gingerbread.”
Aesop (c. 620–564 BCE) was a remarkable storyteller who lived enslaved in Greece. His original home might have been Ethiopia, but no one knows for certain. Some historians liken his enduring tales with those of Br’er Rabbit, which were shared among enslaved people in the United States and might have had African roots. “His stories share morals that continue to resonate,” Murray said. “Slow and steady wins the race. A simple life in peace is better than an exciting life in danger. Mercy brings reward.”
“Fables can be drawn from many sources,” Murray added. “We invite folks to interpret the theme in whatever way inspires them.”
The Museums invite bakeries, schools, organizations, individuals, and families to register by Monday, November 7, 2022. Any structure is eligible, whether the design supports the Fables theme, or represents a traditional holiday scene. Gingerbread creations will be on display from November 25-December 31, 2022, in a large exhibit hall with creative murals, festive decorations, and other enchanting elements.
For questions or additional information, call 413-314-6486 or email programs@springfieldmuseums.org.
Important Dates:
Monday, November 7
Final Entry Deadline
Monday, November 21
Gingerbread Delivery Day
Friday, November 25
Gingerbread: Flour to Fables exhibit opens to the public
Saturday, December 31
Gingerbread: Flour to Fables exhibit closes
Monday, January 2
Gingerbread Pick-Up Day