The Designer Behind 28 Years of Gingerbread Village Displays at the Sheraton Grand Hotel

Ben Mulder's extraordinary work on the gingerbread village display at the Sheraton Grand Hotel has spanned nearly three decades, enchanting families throughout Seattle. His involvement began as a personal mission to support his daughter's fight against type 1 diabetes, leading to over a million dollars raised for research. Each year, Mulder crafts a new theme; this year's focus on 'iconic destinations' includes landmarks like the London Eye and Tower Bridge. Visitors can enjoy the dazzling exhibit for free, while donations are encouraged to aid diabetes research. Mulder relishes the creative freedom of designing the display, stating, 'Doing this, we get to be creative...

It brings out the kid in you. ' The community's interest is palpable, with parents sharing their children's excitement about the candy-themed structures. The gingerbread village will be open for public viewing until January 1, 2025, offering a festive experience during the holiday season. Mulder's legacy as a candy creator is solidified, as he contemplates retirement from his day job but remains uncertain about stepping away from this cherished project.