Why You Must Get The Gingerbread AT-AT
A Holiday Twist on a Star Wars Icon
Every so often, during holiday season, Lego sneaks out a new festive Star Wars exclusive. These might look like novelty builds at first glance, but past holiday sets have shown they often turn into sought-after collector items. The 40806 Gingerbread AT-AT is the latest in the line, releasing this October 1st, and it’s already got the community buzzing. Let’s break down why this sugary Imperial walker might deserve a spot on your shelf.
All the AT-AT nostalgia with unique holiday twists and a wonderful holiday box art, both front and back. What is there to not like?
The Exclusive Minifigure
The star of the set is definitely the new and exclusive gingerbread-style Darth Vader. This isn’t just a repaint (okay well it is technically), it’s a fully themed minifigure with frosting trim, gumdrop buttons, and a printed cape that instantly makes it stand out in any collection. Lego rarely gives seasonal figures this much love aside from the torso prints on the usual Advent Calendar minifigs, and if history repeats itself, this figure alone could carry serious aftermarket value once the set retires.
A Unique Holiday Build
The AT-AT is instantly recognizable, but this version takes a playful turn. The legs have gum drops, the cannons are candy canes, and frosting outlines nearly every surface. Don't forget the awesome lights all around the exterior and interior. It’s whimsical but still feels like Star Wars, which can definitely be a hard feat. Even if you don’t celebrate Christmas, it’s a fun seasonal centerpiece that fits into both Lego holiday displays and Star Wars shelves.
Excellent Price-to-Piece Ratio
At $59.99 for 697 pieces, the Gingerbread AT-AT is a standout value from the most recent wave of Lego Star Wars, which got widespread criticism for the exorbitant prices. Star Wars sets often hover around 12–14 cents per piece, but this one clocks in closer to 8.6 cents per piece. That puts it in line with Creator sets rather than the more sought after licensed ones. For budget-conscious collectors, this is about as good as it gets.
Long-Term Investment Potential
Seasonal Star Wars exclusives have a track record of becoming valuable. The Yuletide X-Wing from a few years ago is now selling for well over $1000. Considering it was an employee exclusive, that makes sense, but it is also important to consider that unusual and/or exclusive sets tend to sell at a much higher margin over time. The mix of limited production runs, festive theme, and exclusive figures usually ensures strong aftermarket performance.
If you’re looking at Lego not just as a hobby but as an investment, this AT-AT is a safe bet. This is definitely one of those sets to get two of, one for the shelf and one for eBay.
The Downsides
There are a couple concerns to consider when getting this set. Aside from the fact I do not have the set, I am including the concerns noted by Lego LAN ambassadors who have been granted early access to review the set, including Solid Brix Studios.
Check out his review here -> SBS Review
Small Size
This is definitely no UCS model, nor even a mid-sized display piece. It’s a fun little build that looks great on a mantel but won’t dominate your Star Wars display the way a full AT-AT does. If you’re expecting grandeur, temper your expectations. This is more like a small table-top display or addition to an existing Christmas display.
The Cramped Cockpit
As much as the design is charming, the cockpit can’t comfortably fit the included minifigure. For a set at this scale, it’s understandable, but still disappointing for people looking for some aspects of playability. Display collectors won’t care, but for play value, it’s definitely a letdown.
Final Verdict: Worth It?
So what is the verdict? Is it worth it? Absolutely! Even with the limitations. The Gingerbread AT-AT nails the holiday spirit, delivers one of the most unique exclusive minifigs Lego has made in a long time, and offers insane value for the price. Its small size and delicate details mean it’s best as a display and collector piece, not a play set, but when has that ever stopped anyone from enjoying a set?
If you want a seasonal set that will only become harder to find, and more expensive in the years ahead, this is one to grab early.
Because once this sugary walker retires, the only thing scarier than an AT-AT barreling down on you will be those resale prices.
