From now through Dec. 10, community members can sign up to participate in “History in the Baking,” a holiday cookie contest sponsored by the Gloucester Museum of History.

“We’re just excited to bring some holiday cheer to the community,” said Historic Resources Supervisor Robert Kelly.

Participants can pick up a cookie container and rules sheet at the museum from now until Saturday and Monday through Wednesday of next week from 11 a.m. until 3 p.m. each day. The contest will be operating under two age categories: children in third through 12th grades and adults ages 18 and older.

“Each entry must contain six cookies that fit in the container,” said Kelly.

Entrants are encouraged to make their favorite holiday cookie for the contest. Store-bought cookies, commercially-prepared dough and cookies requiring refrigeration will not be accepted. Only one entry will be accepted per baker.

Those participating are asked to drop off their creations with a copy of the recipe they used to the museum on Dec. 11 between 11 a.m. and 7 p.m.

The contest will be judged by Kelly, Community Engagement and Public Information Director Quinton Sheppard, Tourism and Marketing Supervisor Susan Ammons and Kelsick Specialty Market owner Paige Williams. In this blind judging, they will be scoring each entry based on taste, appearance, creativity and texture.

Prizes will be awarded for the top three cookie entries in each age group during the museum’s Holiday Open House on Saturday, Dec. 13.

“It’s a great opportunity for the community to come together and celebrate the winter holidays,” said Museum and Cookie Specialist Sidney Ripley about the contest and the open house.

Guests can visit the museum for the open house from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. There will be holiday-themed living history and costumed interpretations.

From 10-1, pianist and baroque flautist Kaylan Stevenson and opera singer Laura Heydt will be performing musical sets.

“They will be performing holiday music from the 16th century to present,” said Kelly.

The museum will be decked-out in holiday decorations and museum staff and interns will be offering free guided tours to visitors.

“This building has been a part of holiday celebrations for years and years and we want to continue that tradition,” said Ripley.

Awards for the cookie contest will be presented to winners at 3 p.m.

Museum volunteer Lisa Thomas has played a big role in helping Kelly and Ripley coordinate the contest.