The holiday season brings with it a magical transformation across cities and landmarks around the world. Among these, the Ritz hotels are known for their opulent and festive decorations, creating an ambiance of luxury and celebration. Here, we delve into when and how the Ritz begins its iconic Christmas decorations, setting the stage for a season of cheer and wonder.
The Tradition of Christmas at the Ritz
The Ritz-Carlton hotels, established by César Ritz, have a longstanding tradition of celebrating Christmas with grandeur. Each property takes pride in transforming into a winter wonderland, often weeks before the onset of December. Here’s a closer look:
- Theme Selection: Months in advance, the Ritz’s event planning team decides on a theme, ensuring it aligns with the elegance and heritage of the brand. Themes can range from classic Victorian to contemporary festive settings.
- Decor Planning: This involves detailed blueprints, color palettes, and sourcing of unique decorations, some of which are custom-made for the hotels.
When Do Decorations Start?
The exact date for starting Christmas decorations can vary by location, but here are some general timelines:
| Ritz Location | Decorations Start |
|---|---|
| London | First week of November |
| Paris | Early November |
| New York | Mid-November |
| Hong Kong | Late October |
These start times ensure that by the time guests begin their holiday travels, the Ritz properties are fully decked out in festive decor, offering an immersive Christmas experience.
The Process of Decking the Halls
Let’s explore the steps involved in setting up the Christmas decorations at a Ritz hotel:
- Advance Planning: From late summer, design teams finalize themes and plans for decorations.
- Preparation: Teams are trained, and special installations are prepped, often requiring additional logistics for larger pieces.
- Installation: A meticulous process where teams work overnight to transform the hotel:
- Lobby and Public Areas
- Guest Rooms
- Restaurants and Dining Halls
- Exterior and Entrances
- Final Touches: Last-minute adjustments and lighting tests to ensure everything sparkles in the right light.
🎄 Note: These steps are typically completed over several days, with public access restricted to maintain the element of surprise.
Experiencing the Christmas Magic
The Ritz’s Christmas decorations are not just about aesthetics; they are crafted to engage guests in an immersive holiday experience:
- Photoshoots: Guests are encouraged to take photos with the ornate decor.
- Special Events: Festive meals, tea parties, and holiday-themed spa treatments.
- Children’s Activities: Santa visits, elf workshops, and gingerbread house decorating events.
✨ Note: Booking a stay during the holiday season often includes access to exclusive Christmas events and activities.
Throughout the festive season, the Ritz hotels around the globe embody the spirit of Christmas, creating memories for guests that last a lifetime. From the carefully selected decorations to the meticulously planned events, every aspect is designed to provide an unparalleled holiday experience. Whether you're spending the season at the Ritz in London, Paris, New York, or beyond, the magic of Christmas comes to life in ways that truly epitomize the luxury and warmth of the Ritz-Carlton brand.
How long does it take to decorate a Ritz hotel for Christmas?
+
Depending on the scale of the hotel, it can take anywhere from a few days to a week to fully transform the property into a winter wonderland. Preparation and planning, however, start months in advance.
Do all Ritz hotels start decorating at the same time?
+
No, the start times for Christmas decorations can vary due to cultural differences and local holiday schedules. Generally, European hotels might begin earlier to align with local traditions.
Can guests see the Christmas decorations before they are completed?
+
Usually, hotels restrict public access while decorations are being installed to maintain the element of surprise and ensure safety during the setup process.
