There’s no better way to get in the holiday spirit than extravagant holiday set-ups and festive scenes of sweet seasonal treats. The ambitious food architects at Park Hyatt Aviara are going above and beyond this year to create oversized Christmas cheer with a life-size chocolate Santa display sitting on a wooden chocolate chair, surrounded by holiday favorites such as snowmen, elves, and Christmas trees.

The treats were prepared by Park Hyatt Aviara Executive Pastry Chef Christophe Rull, as well as a few visiting all-stars, including:

Al DiBartolo: owner of a third-generation bakery called DiBartolo Bakery in New    Jersey. Al is also a Food Network champion, having participated in season 6 of Halloween Wars.

Liz Marek: worldwide award-winning cake decorator and owner of Sugar Geek Show in Portland. Another Food Network champion from season 7 of Halloween Wars.

Mike Brown: designer/professional sculptor and owner of MB Creative Studio in Missouri. Food Network champion from season 7 of Halloween Wars.

While visiting Park Hyatt Aviara, make time for one of several festive holiday activities. Here is a selection:

Teddy Bear Tea. Featuring entertainment by the Peppermint Princess and holiday themed food items. Children are asked to bring a teddy bear to be donated to the Rady’s Children Hospital/Ronald McDonald House. The tea is held at Vivace several days in December from 11am-12:30pm. Teddy Bear Tea is $50 adults and $38 kids.

Gingerbread Classes. Adults and children are welcome to join in the spirit of the holidays with the resort’s expert pastry team as they cheerfully guide guests in a festive gingerbread decorating class. Reservations are required and space is limited. Family classes are held on Dec 21, 22 and 23 from 1:30-3:30pm. Classes are held in the Avalon Ballroom for $60 per person.

High Tea at the Park. This traditional tea service will feature holiday themed food items getting guests in the spirit. Held in the Lobby Lounge on several says throughout the month.

Throughout the holiday season, the resort will come alive with several other fun and festive offerings, including:

Festival of Wreaths. The lobby hallway will be lined with beautifully decorated wreaths and trees, each themed for a different Hyatt Hotel in the South Silent Auction Pacific. A silent auction for each of the wreaths and trees will be ongoing during this time, proceeds benefiting the Semper Fi Fund.

Roasted Chestnuts. Guests are greeted upon arrival with a cast iron pan with freshly roasted chestnuts as they enter the front drive.

Warm Your Soul (and Tummy). Hot beverage stations throughout the resort offering guests warm apple cider and hot chocolate.

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