THE WESTIN ST. FRANCIS DEBUTS THE “ST. FRANCIS ENCHANTED CASTLE” THIS HOLIDAY SEASON

Visitors and guests will delight in holiday merriment on Wednesday, November 25 at 11 a.m. when Westin St. Francisunveils the stunning “St. Francis Enchanted Castle” in the celebrated Landmark Lobby. The public is encouraged to attend and will enjoy complimentary hot chocolate and house-made cookies.

Created by Executive Pastry Chef Jean-François Houdré and his team, this one-of-a-kind rotating 12-feet-tall winter wonderland features brilliantly colored ornaments, elaborate gift boxes, candies and Christmas trees. Devoted elves can be spotted climbing all the way up to a towering all-white sugar castle. Each item is intricately handcrafted using the practiced techniques of sugar art including pulling, blowing, shaping and molding, each taking years to perfect.

“The St. Francis Enchanted Castle blends tradition with modernity, showcasing the best of both worlds,” said Executive Pastry Chef Jean-François Houdré. “My vision was to create something special for our loyal visitors that was fresh and exciting while still reflecting the medieval look and feel that they’ve come to love over years past.”

Chef Houdré and the pastry team began working on the St. Francis Enchanted Castle in May, and have since put in countless hours of work to bring this whimsical holiday dream to life. More than 500 pounds of sugar have been used to create this work of art, which is comprised of sugar, royal icing, fondant and pastillage.

Chef Houdré learned the refined art of pastry by working in his family’s bakery where everything was created from scratch. Born in the Southwest region of France into the family business of boulanger-pâtissier, he was inspired to become a pâtissier by his father who taught him not only the technique but also a true love for the craft.

In the spirit of giving back, the St. Francis Enchanted Castle will be surrounded by gift boxes where guests and visitors can share their holiday spirit by donating to four local charities: Guide Dogs for the Blind, the Boys & Girls Club, Project Open Hand and the Bay Area Women’s and Children’s Center. “These hardworking organizations are truly gifts to our community, and there is no better joy than helping them,” says Hutar. “We invite the San Francisco community to visit us while donating what they can at this special time of year.” The charities will receive 100% of the proceeds.

The Westin St. Francis

Opened more than a century ago on March 21, 1904, The Westin St. Francis still today maintains its preeminence as San Francisco's center of social, theatrical and business life. Renowned for luxury accommodations and excellent service, The Westin St. Francis continues to preserve its rich history and elegance while enhancing the guest experience with fresh, innovative concepts. The only hotel located on San Francisco’s famous Union Square, The Westin St. Francis is just steps from world class shopping, dining, theatres and art galleries. For reservations and more information, call (415) 397-7000, toll free (800) 917-7458 or visit www.westinstfrancis.com.