Anchorage's iconic gingerbread village at Hotel Captain Cook has returned, carrying on a 45-year tradition with a fresh twist. This year, UAA culinary arts students, under the leadership of associate professor and pastry chef Kellie Puff — who herself earned her associate degree in culinary arts and bachelor’s degree in hospitality restaurant management from UAA — have stepped up to create a stunning display, filling the void left by the retirement of pastry chef and hotel co-owner Joe Hickel.

“This has been such a cool opportunity for the program, for the students and for me as a pastry chef,” said Puff. “It’s an honor to continue this wonderful tradition that brings so much happiness and a magic spark to the holidays — that's the kind of thing that makes you feel warm and fuzzy inside.”

For decades, Hickel’s intricate and expansive gingerbread village was a hallmark of Anchorage’s holiday season. His creations, which grew to 270 square feet, were a labor of love, starting each summer and culminating in a dazzling display by December. When Hickel concluded his final village last year, many feared the end of this cherished tradition.

Enter Puff and her students. When Hotel Captain Cook’s general manager, Raquel Edelen, approached Puff in August with the opportunity, she hesitated but ultimately embraced the challenge. 

The result is a meticulously detailed village featuring 11 gingerbread houses, two bridges and a shimmering pond made of isomalt. Each student personalized their house, infusing individuality and creativity into the display. From designs inspired by the classic board game Candy Land to a heartfelt log cabin tribute, the village showcases the immense talent within UAA’s culinary program.

“What I love is that my students can take their families to the display and say, ‘Hey mom, look what I made,’ or, ‘Hey kiddo, look what I made,’" said Puff. “I told everyone who worked on it to take pictures and save all the articles, because in 10 years they're going to look back on that and be like, ‘Wow, that was so cool, I was a part of that.’”

The display has become a hit with hotel visitors, drawing admiration from tourists, locals and even Hickel himself. Hotel management has also praised Puff’s iteration of the holiday staple and has asked her to return next year, this time with the aid of Hotel Captain Cook’s own pastry chefs, which include two UAA culinary arts alumni.

Additionally, Puff plans to utilize 3D printers and laser cutters from UAA’s College of Engineering to create custom tools. This approach will make next year’s iteration not only intergenerational, but also interdepartmental, solidifying a sense of community and togetherness that aligns beautifully with the spirit of the holiday season.

Anchorage residents and visitors can view this new chapter of the gingerbread village legacy at Hotel Captain Cook through the New Year.