The Gingerbread House at the Fairmont Hotel in San Francisco is an iconic holiday tradition, dating back to 1995. The construction is a life-sized gingerbread house that measures around 25 feet high and 35 feet wide and can be visited for free every year around the winter holidays. Here are some interesting facts about the Gingerbread House:
1. History:
The tradition of building the Gingerbread House at the Fairmont Hotel dates back to 1995. It was started by the hotel’s executive pastry chef, James S. Culhane, and has continued ever since.
2. Design:
The Gingerbread House is incredibly detailed, featuring over 10,000 individual gingerbread bricks. The structure is adorned with hundreds of pounds of royal icing, candy canes, and other edible decorations.
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3. Ingredients:
The gingerbread used to build the house is made from a secret recipe that includes cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and plenty of ginger. It takes around 300 pounds of gingerbread dough to construct the house each year.
4. Construction:
The building process usually takes several weeks to complete, with a team of pastry chefs and other staff working together to assemble the Gingerbread House. The entire structure is supported by a wooden frame hidden beneath the gingerbread walls.
5. Opening Ceremony:
The Gingerbread House is unveiled each year during a festive opening ceremony at the Fairmont Hotel. It is usually around Thanksgiving time, marking the beginning of the holiday season.
6. Interactive Experience:
Visitors can explore the Gingerbread House and even make dining reservations for a unique holiday experience. The interior of the Gingerbread House can be transformed into a cozy dining space where guests can enjoy a festive meal.
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7. Philanthropy:
The Gingerbread House serves a charitable purpose. The Fairmont Hotel typically partners with a local non-profit organization and donates a portion of the proceeds from dining in the Gingerbread House to support their cause.
8. Location:
The Gingerbread House can be found in the lobby of the Fairmont Hotel, one of San Francisco’s most prestigious and historic hotels. It is located atop Nob Hill and offers breathtaking views of the city.
The Gingerbread House at the Fairmont Hotel in San Francisco is not only a culinary masterpiece but also a beloved holiday attraction that brings joy to the visitors and residents of the city during the festive season.
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