By Peter Covino

Lifestyles Editor

It will be an evening of old-fashioned holiday entertainment and fun Tuesday as Kissimmee Main Street and the Kissimmee Utility Authority host the first downtown gingerbread house decorating contest.

More than 20 downtown area businesses were given boxed gingerbread kits this week, said Kayla Burton, to create a unique design that reflects their business.

While the kits are all the same, business owners can add little touches that will reflect their own type of business she said.

“Each business can add their own little twist,” she said.

The contest will take place at the weekly Kissimmee Valley Farmers Market Tuesday and market attendees can vote for their favorite house.

Participating businesses include Puzzles Party Shop, Massageworks Salon and Day Spa, Quokka Coffee, 3 Sister’s Speakeasy, Broadway Pizza Bar, Central Florida Business Corporation and Toho Water Authority.

“KUA is excited to sponsor this inaugural gingerbread house contest,” said KUA spokesman Chris Gent. “The event will bring some holiday cheer to the farmer’s market while showcasing the unique and creative decorating talents of our local businesses. It’s going to be a great time for everyone.”

All of the gingerbread houses will be displayed at the market from 4 to 7 p.m. All voters will receive a free cup of hot chocolate and the winning business will receive a trophy.

There will be live music as well as an edible kids craft provided by Toho Water Authority.

Youngsters can make their own edible holiday craft at the Toho Water Authority booth, Burton said.

The Kissimmee Valley Farmers Market operates every Tuesday in front of the Kissimmee Civic Center. and focuses on providing the community with fresh, Florida produce.

The Tuesday market will be a good place for shoppers to get items for Christmas baskets. The market usually has home made soaps, local honey and other products.

For more information on the Kissimmee Valley Farmers Market visit www.kissimmeemainstreet.com or call 407-846-4643.

Kissimmee Main Street is a nationally accredited Main Street program that focuses on historic preservation with economic development to restore prosperity and vitality to downtown and neighborhood business districts.