Mumbai, 18th November 2024: The poolside at Novotel Mumbai Juhu Beach transformed into a hub of pre-Christmas revelry as the hotel hosted its much-anticipated annual cake-mixing ceremony on the 17th of November, 2024. The event brought together guests and culinary enthusiasts for an afternoon of merriment, marking the onset of the festive season.
The celebration began with an elaborate new market brunch showcasing the culinary prowess of the hotel’s celebrated chefs. Guests savoured an extensive spread featuring freshly baked breads, artisanal pastries, regional delicacies, and international favourites. The specially crafted menu highlighted seasonal ingredients while paying homage to traditional holiday flavours.
Neelabh Sahay, Director of Operations at Novotel Mumbai Juhu Beach, said, “Our cake-mixing ceremony is all about togetherness, marking the start of our holiday preparations with a cherished tradition. It’s heartwarming to see families, friends, and even new faces come together, sharing joy and creating connections. As these festive ingredients are transformed over the coming weeks, they’ll carry the warmth and togetherness of today into the holiday celebrations ahead.”
As the afternoon progressed, participants gathered for the main ceremony, donning chef’s caps, aprons, and gloves. The air was filled with the aromatic blend of premium ingredients, including sultanas, candied ginger, macerated dates, crystallised fruit, and hand-picked nuts. These choice ingredients were lovingly mixed with fine spirits, initiating the months-long maturation process essential for crafting the hotel’s signature Christmas offerings.
The convivial atmosphere was enhanced by carefully curated holiday melodies, whilst the seaside setting provided a distinctive backdrop for this time-honoured tradition. Families and friends came together, sharing in the joy of this unique pre-Christmas ritual.
