San Francisco's Largest Gingerbread House at the Fairmont Hotel
Stop at the the Fairmont Hotel on Nob Hill to check out their winter wonderland lobby and completely edible two-story gingerbread house
San Francisco’s Largest Gingerbread House: A Sweet Tradition at Fairmont San Francisco
In the heart of San Francisco, the Fairmont Hotel transforms into a winter wonderland each holiday season, enchanting visitors with its grandeur and festive spirit. Central to this holiday cheer is the hotel’s iconic Gingerbread House, a tradition that has captured the imagination of guests for over a decade. Standing as a testament to culinary and engineering prowess, the Fairmont’s Gingerbread House is more than just a seasonal decoration—it’s a beloved holiday destination where memories are made.
History
For over 10 years, the Fairmont San Francisco has been crafting its famed Gingerbread House, evolving it into a remarkable spectacle of holiday magic. This tradition began modestly but has grown in size and splendor, reflecting the hotel’s commitment to creating an unforgettable holiday experience. Each year, Fairmont’s talented teams work tirelessly to enhance and expand the Gingerbread House, ensuring that it remains a highlight of San Francisco’s holiday season.
Today
The Gingerbread House at the Fairmont San Francisco is a sight to behold, boasting 7,750 real gingerbread bricks, 1,500 pounds of royal icing, and 700 pounds of candy. This architectural marvel, requiring over 895 hours of combined effort from the Pastry and Engineering Departments, begins its construction in July to dazzle guests through New Year’s. Beyond its visual appeal, the Gingerbread House is sustainably built, with the framework recycled annually and edible components composted, underscoring the hotel’s environmental commitment.
Gingerbread House Fun Facts
- The Gingerbread House is constructed from over 8,000 baked gingerbread bricks each year, using 50 gallons of egg whites and 1,000 pounds of powdered sugar for the icing alone.
- A hidden delight for visitors is the Gingerbread House’s miniature railroad track, a favorite feature among guests of all ages.
- Despite its edible allure, the Gingerbread House is designed with sustainability in mind, with materials recycled or composted after the holiday season.
Not to Be Missed
Visitors to the Fairmont San Francisco can not only marvel at the Gingerbread House but also enjoy a unique dining experience inside this sweet abode. The hotel offers a private dining room within the Gingerbread House, accommodating groups of up to 8 for a memorable holiday feast. Additionally, the hotel’s lobby is home to a majestic 23-foot tall Christmas tree, complementing the festive atmosphere.
Location, Address, Website, and Hours
The Fairmont San Francisco is situated atop Nob Hill, a prime location offering breathtaking views of the city. The Gingerbread House can be visited in the hotel’s grand lobby at 950 Mason Street, San Francisco, CA.
For more details, including booking information for dining within the Gingerbread House, visit the Fairmont San Francisco’s website.
The display is open to the public from mid-November through New Year’s, free of charge.
Why You Should Visit
The Fairmont San Francisco’s Gingerbread House is more than just a holiday decoration; it’s an immersive experience that brings joy and wonder to all who visit. Its scale, beauty, and craftsmanship make it a must-see attraction in San Francisco during the holiday season. Whether you’re admiring the intricate details of the house, enjoying a champagne toast at the Lobby Bar, or dining within the gingerbread walls, the Fairmont offers a unique way to celebrate the festive spirit.
