Make the holiday season a little sweeter at an event that's all about gingerbread! Children can decorate gingerbread houses for free at the library, or attend a workshop at the Capital Hotel for instruction from pastry professionals. Plus, the whole family can visit Hot Springs to view the Arlington Hotel's giant gingerbread house!

27th Annual Gingerbread Extravaganza at Arkansas State Capitol: Treatment Homes, Inc. hosts this merry event that includes a gingerbread display and contest, coloring contest and photos with Santa (2-3 p.m.). Children and families participate in the coloring contest and gingerbread house decorating contest in advance. The entry deadline to participate has already passed, but the public can view the submitted gingerbread houses at the Arkansas State Capitol Rotunda from 1-4 p.m. Dec. 14. The houses will be judged and prizes will be awarded. Treatment Homes Inc. hosts the event to raise funds to purchase Christmas presents for foster children. For info: (501) 372-5039, TreatmentHomes.org. FREE!

Christmas at the Arlington Hotel in Hot Springs: Visit the lovely lobby throughout the season to view a giant gingerbread house and other decorations. Through Jan. 1. For info: (501) 623-7771, ArlingtonHotel.com. FREE!

Family Gingerbread House Making at Adolphine Fletcher Terry Library: Deliciously decorate for the holidays! The library will provide materials for the houses or trees, and the yummy glue. Bring a bag of candy decorations to share! 2:30-4:30 p.m. Dec. 22. For info: (501) 228-0129, CALS.org. FREE!

Gingerbread House Making at CALS Main Library: Kids are invited to craft gingerbread houses at no charge. 3 p.m. Dec. 20. For info: (501) 918-3000, CALS.org. FREE!

Gingerbread House Workshop at the Capital Hotel: Kids construct their gingerbread houses with the expert instruction of the Capital Hotel's pastry professionals. The gingerbread houses, candy, instruction and an apron are provided, and snacks will be served. Advance registration required. $55 per child; adults are $20. 10 a.m.-noon. Dec. 20. For info: (501) 374-7474, CapitalHotel.com.

Santa Claus and Gingerbread Houses at Sanders Library: This holiday party includes sugary fun, as well as a special guest. 10 a.m.-noon Dec. 13. For info: (501) 835-7756, CALS.org. FREE!

Looking for more holiday fun? Check out these articles from Little Rock Family: 5 Christmas Tree Farms in Central Arkansas, 7 Places to See Holiday Lights, Where to Find Santa Claus, and Classic Christmas Movies Showing at Local Theaters.