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INDEPENDENCE, IT'S GRAND ET GRANDE !

Washington D.C., June 1, 2009 -- Celebrate July 4th at Café du Parc on Pennsylvania Avenue - America's Main Street! The Willard InterContinental is hosting a block party-style celebration with live classic American rock band, Jumpin' Jupiter accompanying dinner from 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. The à la carte menu features Chef Christophe Marque's "Paris-Washington" Hamburger for $20.95 (beef, Ossau Irraty cheese, pancetta, tomato) served with salad or wedged fries. An outdoor crêpe station and grill provides great American Barbeque classics to go. To go item prices range from $8 to $15.

The Willard continues its celebration of independence on July 14th - Bastille Day on Pennsylvania Avenue's Champs Elysee! The party takes place outdoors at Café du Parc for lunch and dinner from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. Enjoy live accordion music, grilled French specialties, crêpe and ice cream stations. Bastille Day outdoor grilled à la carte French specialties are priced from $19.95 to $26.95 and include: Toulouse sausages, sardines, shrimp, Filet Mignon, pork belly. Salads and soup from $9.95 to $13.95, Salade Niçoise, Salade du Parc, tomato and mozzarella chilled tomato soup, crêpes and desserts are $7.95.

For reservations, call Café du Parc at: 202-942-7000 or visit www.opentable.com. Visit our Web site at www.cafeduparc.com.

Café du Parc, the popular French bistro located next to the Willard InterContinental, serves breakfast, lunch, dinner, afternoon petit plats, takeout lunch items and house specialty French pastries. Café du Parc embraces true classic bistro cuisine with accompanying French wines. Chef Christophe Marque leads the culinary brigade under the guidance consultancy of celebrated Michelin-starred French chef, Antoine Westermann. During the warm DC spring and long summer months, Café du Parc features Parisian-style outdoor sidewalk seating. Call Café du Parc at: 202-942-7000, or visit www.cafeduparc.com.

Contact: Barbara Bahny-David
P. 202.637.7309
E. Barbara.bahny@ihg.com

 

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CAFÉ DU PARC CELEBRATES FIRST-EVER KIDS' RESTAURANT WEEK LAUNCHED BY DESTINATION DC, COOKIE AND GOURMET MAGAZINES

Washington DC, June 11, 2009 - Café du Parc at the Willard InterContinental joins Destination DC and two Condé Nast publications-Cookie, the lifestyle magazine for the modern mom, and Gourmet, the magazine of good living-offering a dedicated French menu for the first-ever Kids' Restaurant Week in Washington, DC to celebrate the joys of eating out as a family. From June 13 through June 21, the special discount prix fixe menu for dinner seating from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. is offered. Kids 11 and under will pay their age, while adults and children 12 and over will pay $29.00 each, tax and gratuities excluded. A portion of the proceeds will benefit Eastern Market and Miriam's Kitchen. For reservations, call Café du Parc at: 202-942-7000 or visit www.opentable.com. Visit our Web site at www.cafeduparc.com.

Prix Fixe Menu

Appetizer: Tarte Flambée or Salade du Parc

Entrée: Croque Monsieur with French Fries or Fish of the Day with Vegetables

Dessert: Profiterol

Café du Parc, the popular French bistro located next to the Willard InterContinental, serves breakfast, lunch, dinner, afternoon petit plats, takeout lunch items and house specialty French pastries. Café du Parc embraces true classic bistro cuisine with accompanying French wines. Chef Christophe Marque leads the culinary brigade under the guidance consultancy of celebrated Michelin-starred French chef, Antoine Westermann. During the warm DC spring and long summer months, Café du Parc features Parisian-style outdoor sidewalk seating. Call Café du Parc at: 202-942-7000, or visit www.cafeduparc.com.

Contact: Barbara Bahny-David
P. 202.637.7309
E. Barbara.bahny@ihg.com

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CAFÉ DU PARC CELEBRATES SOUTHERN REGIONAL INFLUENCES ON FRENCH BISTRO COOKING WITH DEDICATED "LE GRAND SUD" MENU

Washington D.C., May 20, 2009 -- Continuing the celebration of its traditional French bistro roots, Café du Parc will feature a month-long summer tribute of the cuisine of the Southern region of France, starting June 20 and running through July 21. The cuisine, conjuring the languid Southern French summer, highlights such areas as Corsica, Pays Basque, Provence, Aquitaine and Languedoc. Prepared by rising star Chef Christophe Marque, with menu overseen by Michelin star Chef, Antoine Westermann, the South of France specialties will be offered for dinner only. A three-course region of prix fixe menu is $37.50, and items can be ordered à la carte. Café du Parc will follow its salute to Southern France with a culinary overview of Bourgogne (Burgundy) starting September 21.

Through the Le Grand Sud celebration, the palate discovers aromatic and naturally savory pleasures with seafood and fresh produce. Regional menu highlights include; from Provence, Escargots à la Provençale (snails with tomato concassée, garlic butter, croûtons) and Salade Niçoise (cucumber, celery, tuna, anchovies, black olives, tomatoes, green beans, potatoes, tapenade); Légumes Farcis (stuffed tomato, zucchini, eggplant, mushroom.) From Sud Ouest (South West) Terrine de foie gras, oignons confits (Foie gras terrine, confit onions) Fricassée de chipirons, sauce encre (sauteed calamari, ink sauce.) Paëlla for two, with mussels, clams, shrimp, monkfish, langoustine, chorizo. From Corse (Corsica), Dorade aux anchois, tomates confites, salade de fenouil (seasoned Dorade served with anchovies, confit tomatoes and fennel salad.) From Languedoc, Aubergines à la bitteroise (Roasted local baby eggplant served on a bed of caramelized tomatoes and onions concassee, topped with a crispy crust) Roussillon Fricassée de volaille au jambon (chicken fricassee served with ham.)

Southern France lays between the Atlantic coast to the west and the French Riviera to the east. The region features hilly mountains, posh beaches, beautiful villages, perfumed fields of lavender and thyme, vineyards and some of the best restaurants in France. Embark on a delicious journey through this festival of heady, fresh flavors and summer dreams inside sunny Café du Parc, or at one of the coveted outdoor dining tables on Pennsylvania Avenue's Champs Elysées!

For reservations, call Café du Parc at: 202-942-7000 or visit www.opentable.com. Visit our Web site at www.cafeduparc.com.

Café du Parc, the popular French bistro located next to the Willard InterContinental, serves breakfast, lunch, dinner, afternoon petit plats, takeout lunch items and house specialty French pastries. Café du Parc embraces true classic bistro cuisine with accompanying French wines. Chef Christophe Marque leads the culinary brigade under the guidance consultancy of celebrated Michelin-starred French chef, Antoine Westermann. During the warm DC spring and long summer months, Café du Parc features Parisian-style outdoor sidewalk seating. Call Café du Parc at: 202-942-7000, or visit www.cafeduparc.com.

Contact: Barbara Bahny-David
P. 202.637.7309
E. Barbara.bahny@ihg.com

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Washington DC, May 28, 2009 -- Highlighting the joy of music, the Willard InterContinental is celebrating Fête de la Musique - or "World Music Day" on Friday, June 19. Guests partaking in the hospitable ambiance of the Willard's dining, beverage and social venues will enjoy a full day -- from 7:30 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. -- of varying musical styles. Nine live performances will be featured throughout the hotel. Launched in 1982 by the French Ministry for Culture, Fête de la Musique is held in more than hundred countries in Europe and around the world to celebrate the beginning of summer.

World Music Day Schedule

Café du Parc
7:30 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. Breakfast to classical guitar
12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. Lunch to a Bluegrass quartet
2:30 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. Strolling classic/soft rock singer with guitar
5:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Jazz Trio

Café du Parc and Occidental Bar & Grill
8:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m. Kamel Zennia Band, Music: Algerian folk-rock/ Mediterranean and World music

Peacock Alley - Afternoon Tea and Champagne
2:30 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. Classical trio (flute, violin, cello)

Round Robin and Scotch Bar
5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Happy Hour to the Banjo and Guitar - Outdoor Bar Terrace
9:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. Cocktails to Saxophone and Guitar Duo

Lobby
5:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. General Manager's Reception in the lobby lounge with light opera and Broadway songs by a soprano and tenor.
7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. Lounge in "America's Living Room" with a Salon Orchestra

An American institution and leader in Sustainable Hospitality, the Willard InterContinental is located in the heart of the nation's capital on Pennsylvania Avenue, near the White House, the Smithsonian museums and the downtown business and theatre districts. A leader in Sustainable Hospitality, the Willard is the Washington D.C. hotel of choice for heads of state and leaders of the world's business, cultural, social and political elite. The hotel's 332 well appointed large guestrooms include 40 elegant suites. Dining options Café du Parc, the popular French bistro with seasonal outdoor seating, the Occidental Grill & Seafood, traditional Afternoon Tea in Peacock Alley and the historic Round Robin and Scotch Bar. The luxurious Red Door Spa offers a wide array of pampering treatments. The classic Willard InterContinental combines heritage and luxury with contemporary comfort and the latest technology. Tel. 202-628-9100, or Web site: www.washington.intercontinental.com. "Willard InterContinental - The Next 100 Years" is a holistic sustainable hospitality program in harmony with social and ecological consciousness. Visit www.willarddc.com/sd, a comprehensive guide to the Willard's sustainability efforts.

Contact: Barbara Bahny-David
P. 202.637.7309,
E. Barbara.bahny@ihg.com

 

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Citing Hotel’s 100% Wind Power, Willard InterContinental Hotel Awarded DC Mayor’s Environmental Excellence Award

Media Contact: Barbara Bahny-David
Tel 202-637-7309, barbara.bahny@ihg.com

Washington, DC, April 29, 2009 -- Mayor Adrian M. Fenty recognized the Willard InterContinental for “Outstanding Achievement by a Hotel” along with 18 other District businesses and nonprofit organizations for their environmental stewardship, innovative best practices, pollution prevention, and resource conservation in the first-ever ‘Mayor’s Environmental Excellence Awards.’

“The Environmental Excellence Awards recognize the very best in sustainable commerce in the District of Columbia,” said Mayor Fenty. “Every day, the winners demonstrate that taking care of the environment makes good business sense.”

The awards are a component of the Mayor’s Green agenda, and an effort to incentivize growth of local green enterprises, green existing businesses and District government, and train local workforce to fill green jobs of the future. Over several months, the management team at the District Department of the Environment (DDOE) accepted and considered 52 applications in 5 categories.  Winners received an engraved award from Mayor Fenty in person at a ceremony today.

A leader in “Sustainable Hospitality”, the Willard’s award-winning, program, Willard InterContinental – The Next 100 Years is based on the Three P’s (Profit-People-Planet), the holistic plan comprises interwoven sustainable projects designed for a luxurious urban hospitality experience in harmony with social and ecological consciousness.

The Willard’s Environmental Achievements at a Glance Include:

  • 100% wind energy to power the hotel.
  • Decrease in electricity consumption of 12% over past 5 years, even as occupancy rose.
  • Donation of water well to a village in South Africa
  • Donation of water well to a native American family in South Dakota
  • Overall electricity consumption including Café du Parc restaurant decreased 6.5% from 2007 to 2008 alone.
  • Overall electricity consumption including Café du Parc restaurant decreased 6.5% from 2007 to 2008 alone.
  • 100% water reduction with water-free urinals. In its first year, 2005, the Willard saved over 95,000 gallons of water. Projected savings by 2009 are over one million gallons.
  • Green chemicals for in-house laundry.
  • 100% removal of PERC non-renewable dry-cleaning chemicals.
  • All papers consumed on property are 30% recycled paper.
  • Recycling success: 191 tons in 2008, land fill wastes (non-recyclables) decreased from 1029 tons in 2005, to 635 tons 2008, a 38% reduction, even with a new restaurant added and 27% of this reduction came in 2008.
  • In 2005, our first test year, we composted one ton.  By 2008, our composting increased to 37 tons with a 33% increase over 2007.
  • 100% elimination of oil-based paints
  • “Adopted” local Thomson Elementary School for ongoing educational opportunities
  • Hosted major Hermes Fashion Fundraiser for St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital
  • Hosted “Cinderella Ball” Prom for Disabled Young Adults

“For the District to continue realizing the Mayor’s vision of one of the world’s greenest cities, the private and nonprofit sectors have an incredibly important role,” said DDOE Director George S. Hawkins. “Today’s award winners take that role to the next level. We thank them for helping us start a new tradition in recognizing green businesses each year.”

For winners of the 2009 Mayor’s Environmental Excellence Awards and a detailed case study of each winning business, please visit http://ddoe.dc.gov/awards.

An American institution and leader in Sustainable Hospitality, the Willard InterContinental is located in the heart of the nation's capital on Pennsylvania Avenue, near the White House, the Smithsonian museums and the downtown business and theatre districts. A leader in Sustainable Hospitality, the Willard is the Washington D.C. hotel of choice for heads of state and leaders of the world's business, cultural, social and political elite. The hotel's 332 well appointed large guestrooms include 40 elegant suites. Dining options Café du Parc, the popular French bistro with seasonal outdoor seating and traditional Afternoon Tea in Peacock Alley. The luxurious Red Door Spa offers a wide array of pampering treatments. The classic Willard InterContinental combines heritage and luxury with contemporary comfort and the latest technology. Tel. 202-628-9100, or Web site: www.washington.intercontinental.com

"Willard InterContinental - The Next 100 Years" is a holistic sustainable hospitality program in harmony with social and ecological consciousness. Visit www.willarddc.com/sd, a comprehensive guide to the Willard's sustainability efforts.

 

SPRING INTO THE WILLARD INTERCONTINENTAL FOR THE NATIONAL CHERRY BLOSSOM FESTIVAL ®
Guests Will be Treated to Live Cherry Blossom Décor, Overnight Packages, Japanese Inspired Libations and Cherry Blossom Afternoon Tea

Washington DC, February 5, 2009 – Anticipating the majestic beauty of the National Cherry Blossom Festival® from March 28 through April 12, visitors flock to Washington's Willard InterContinental for its stunning live floral displays, overnight packages, spa treatments and tasty Cherry Blossom Tea in Peacock Alley.

Guests who reserve the hotel's Very Cherry Willard Package starting at $349 will receive a special cherry amenity, plus the choice of one of the following; American breakfast for two, a second room at half price for children under 18, upgrade to a Deluxe room, or parking. This package reflects savings of $250. Prices are per room, plus tax, based upon availability and are available from March 13 through April 12, 2009. For information and reservations call the Willard InterContinental Hotel, Tel. 202-628-9100, or 1-800-827-1747. Visit our Web site at: www.washington.interconti.com. For National Cherry Blossom Festival® details visit: www.nationalcherryblossomfestival.org.

Conveniently located near the tree-lined Tidal Basin , the Cherry Blossom Parade route and other festival events, the Willard is the perfect choice for festival enthusiasts. Guests can raise their glasses at our historic Round Robin Bar with cherry cocktails, like the Cherry Blossom Fizz, Tidal Basin Bracer and the Maraschino Mojito, priced at $14 each.

Guests can also sip on cherry-infused teas as the opulently decorated Peacock Alley surrounds them during our Cherry Blossom Tea. Offered seven days a week from 2:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. throughout the festival, guests can nibble on festive themed edibles such as Petite Cherry Custard Tarts, Dried Cherry and Vanilla Scones with Homemade Cherry Marmalade and Devonshire Cream, and Hand Made Cherry Marshmallows, while listening to the soothing sounds of a live Koto player. Price is $39.00 per person, or $49.00 per person including a lovely glass of Champagne or Specialty Cherry Cocktail. Tea for children ages five through twelve is $25.00, and complimentary for those under five. For reservations please call 202.637.7350.

Each year, the Willard's lobby and Peacock Alley promenade is festooned with live Cherry Blossoms and a display including historic renderings of the first Japanese delegation to America . Three ambassadors and their entourage of 74, stayed at the Willard in an historic visit to Washington to ratify the nations' new Treaty of Amity and Commerce in 1860. The Japanese delegation stayed at the Willard for a month in a cross-cultural experience learning about America while enjoying Washington and the Willard's renowned hospitality.

Contact: Barbara Bahny-David, P. 202.637.7309, E. barbara.bahny@ihg.com

 

THE WILLARD CELEBRATES THE WASHINGTON BALLET WITH NUTCRACKER “SLIPPER” BÛCHE DE NOËL HOLIDAY CAKE
A Holiday Tradition Honoring D.C.'s Cultural Institutions in Design and Flavor

Washington D.C. October 10, 2008 -- T he Willard's 2008 holiday Bûche de Noël  cake pays homage to The Washington Ballet's The Nutcracker, by Artistic Director, Septime Webre. The holiday cake, a beautiful ballet slipper in pink covered in Cherry Blossoms, reflects the artistic director's lavish production set in the nation's capital. Each year, the arts and culinary excellence are celebrated as the hotel's pastry chef highlights a Washington D.C. cultural leader, reflecting that leader's cultural institution in sumptuous design and flavor.

Pastry Chef Courtney Goldian rendered the ballet master's vision in a foot-long bûche, in the shape of a ballet slipper which elegantly evokes the cherry blossom motifs of the director's production of The Nutcracker. Inspired by Webre's French and Cuban heritage, the cake is made of a rich chocolate sponge with a dulce de leche cream filling and enrobed in a pink fondant icing. The Willard's premiere Bûche de Noël  was designed by internationally renowned singer and maestro, Plácido Domingo, tenor, conductor and General Director of the Washington National Opera.

The tasty “slipper” cake -- a must-have for the holiday dinner table -- will be available in carry out boxes from November 27 through January 1. Priced at $119 including tax, a portion of each purchase will be dedicated to The Washington Ballet's Pointe Shoe Fund, which supplies The Washington Ballet ballerinas with over 400 pointe shoes per season. Reservations are necessary; please call 48 hours in advance to our Holiday Hotline at 202.637.7305. Cakes can be picked up in the hotel lobby at the concierge desk.

Images Available Contact: anna.croll@ihg.com, Tel 202-637-7304

Contact: Barbara Bahny David
P. 202.637.7309
E. barbara.bahny@ihg.com

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WILLARD INTERCONTINENTAL FIRST HOTEL TO RELEASE GRI STANDARD SUSTAINABILITY REPORT

Washington DC, September 4, 2008 --The Willard InterContinental Hotel in Washington DC has released its first Sustainability Report this month. The report examines the Willard's environmental and social performance, with comparisons of the progress of its sustainable development initiatives, started in 2005 as “Willard InterContinental, The Next 100 Years”. Based on its Triple Bottom Line strategy of Economic Prosperity, Social Responsibility and Environmental Protection, the report highlights the hotel's strategy as well as its results. The report adheres to the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI), an internationally recognized standard for sustainability reporting. Encouraged by the direction of InterContinental's commitment to Corporate Responsibility, the Willard sought out Washington, D.C.-based EnviRelation to produce the report.

The Willard InterContinental Sustainability Report 2007 is available online along with detailed information on the Willard's sustainability initiatives at www.willarddc.com/sd or through EnviRelation's Web site, www.envirelation.com.

Beyond including the generally established indicators for Corporate Social Responsibility reporting, the report analyzes and addresses the hotel's impact on climate change. It incorporates vanguard metrics for the hospitality industry, examining the hotel's net carbon footprint from operations, calculated from EnviRelation's Emissions Management Services, which evaluates the distribution and relation of Greenhouse Gas Emissions per Occupied Room (GEPOR.)

“The Willard enjoys an incredible legacy which is summarized in its vision as “ America 's Hotel” due to its location between the two most powerful political institutions of the world - the White House and the U.S. Congress - and its history,” explains Hervé Houdré, the hotel's General Manager. “We feel that we have an obligation to our industry and our world to show the way through Sustainable Hospitality by ensuring that the legacy of our property remains strong in the years to come.”

“The Willard's Sustainability Report represents one step further in our vision to set a clear standard for sustainability reporting for the hospitality industry, including calculation methodologies,” commented Walker Lunn, EnviRelation's founder and manager.

Contact:
Eric Ricaurte, Tel. 202.280.0203, eric@envirelation.com
Barbara Bahny-David, Tel 202-637-7309, barbara.bahny@ihg.com

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HOLIDAY HAPPENINGS AT THE WILLARD INTERCONTINENTAL HOTEL
A Season of Luxury with The Nutcracker Packages, Dining, Afternoon Tea, Nightly Choral Music and More….

Washington DC, October 30, 2008 -- The Willard InterContinental embraces the holidays with tradition and creativity. The hotel offers a myriad of packages, dining experiences, keepsakes, music and the highly-anticipated Bûche de Noël – this year's by Septime Webre for The Washington Ballet. Reservations are necessary for all dining events and can be made by calling the Holiday Hotline at (202)637-7305. Complimentary valet parking is provided for all dining guests. To reserve room packages, call 202-628-9100.

High Resolution Images are available, email Barbara.bahny@ihg.com.

THANKSGIVING

Thanksgiving Dinner: The Willard Room
An exquisite five-course Thanksgiving Day meal is offered on November 27, with seatings from noon to 9:00 p.m. Price is $99 for adults and $50 for children ages 5 through 12. Children under five eat free. Price excludes tax and gratuity.

Thanksgiving Brunch: Willard Grand Ballroom
This traditional Thanksgiving celebration offers a tasty array of delicious food stations. Children have their very own Thanksgiving Buffet with yummy choices and entertainment. Seatings are at 11:00 a.m., 11:30 a.m., 1:30 p.m. and 2:00 p.m. Price is $65 per adult and $30 for children ages 5 through 12. Children under five eat free. Price excludes tax and gratuity.

Diners can take advantage of our Thanksgiving rate beginning at $239, per night, from November 26 through November 30. For guest room reservations, please call (202)628-9100 and request the special “ Holiday ” room rate .

Willard on Wings
This carry-out holiday feast includes a 10 to 12-pound, or 22 to 24-pound turkey (serving four to six people for $150, or eight to ten for $250) with cranberry sauce and gravy, four side dishes, freshly baked rolls and pie. To order, call (202)637-7305. When picking up your order, simply dial our “Turkey Pick up hot line” at 202-637-7466, pop the trunk and we will take care of the rest.

All Prices exclude tax and are subject to a 17% service charge. All orders must be placed by 3:00 p.m. on Monday, November 24th.

CHRISTMAS/NEW YEAR'S EVE

Nutcracker Brunch: The Willard Room
Our Sunday Nutcracker Brunch is offered December 7, 14 and 21, with seatings between 11:00 a.m. through 2:00 p.m. Surrounded by festive Nutcracker décor, food stations include Granny Stalhbaum's Waffles, Sugar Plum 's Pastries and Clara's Land of Sweets . Price is $79 per adult and $40 for children ages 5 through 12. Children under five eat free. Price excludes tax and gratuity. Take away a Nutcracker gift as a memento of your visit to The Willard Room.

Christmas Eve Dinner: The Willard Room
Enjoy an exquisite five-course Christmas Eve Dinner in The Willard Room. Our sommelier offers the perfect wine pairing. Reservations are from 5:00 p.m. until 9:00 p.m. Pricing is $125 per adult and $50 per child for children ages 5 through 12. Children under five eat free. Price excludes tax and gratuity.

Diners of The Willard Room on Christmas Eve enjoy a special rate starting at $239 for a Superior room. Request the special “ Holiday ” room rate by calling reservations at (202)628-9100.

Christmas Ballroom Brunch: Willard Grand Ballroom
Our festive Christmas Day holiday brunch, in the Grand Ballroom, offers something for the entire family. With seatings at 11:00 a.m., 11:30 a.m., 1:30 p.m. and 2:00 p.m., and is priced at $65 per adult and $30 per child for children ages 5 through 12. Children under 5 eat free. Entertainment will be provided for adults and children including a visit from St. Nick himself.

Christmas Day Lunch: The Willard Room
The Willard Room is open from 12:00 noon until 9:00 p.m. on Christmas Day, welcoming you and your family to join us for a luxurious dining experience. Price is $125 per adult and $50 for children ages 5 through 12. Children under five eat free. Price excludes tax and gratuity.

Christmas Day diners enjoy a special rate starting at $239 for a Superior room. Request the special “ Holiday ” room rate by calling reservations at (202)628-9100.

New Year's Eve: The Willard Room
Dine and dance the night away in The Willard Room , celebrating New Year 2009 in style and luxury. This seven-course menu will not soon be forgotten, and includes a split of Krug Grande Cuvée Champagne, per couple, to toast to the New Year, and a live musical performance by acclaimed singer Sara Jones. Wine pairings are available. Price is $300 per person and excludes tax and gratuity. The evening begins at 8:00 p.m.

Diners of The Willard Room on New Year's Eve, enjoy a special rate starting at $239 for a Superior room. Request the special “ Holiday ” room rate by calling reservations at (202)628-9100.

Festive Holiday Tea in Peacock Alley
From December 1 through 31, Holiday Afternoon Tea in Peacock Alley features fresh cranberry and gingerbread scones and a chocolate sleigh filled with fresh berries dusted with powdered sugar. Enjoy seasonal tea blends such as Chocolate Mint Truffle and Pear Caramel Truffle. Afternoon Tea will be served Monday through Friday from 2:30 to 5:00 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday from 1:00 p.m.to 5:00 p.m. Holiday Afternoon Tea is priced at $39 per person, or $49 per person with a glass of champagne, or a festive holiday cocktail.

Café du Parc
Café du Parc will be open Thanksgiving , Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, New Year's Eve and New Year's Day offering a seasonal menu. Lunch is available 12:00 noon through 2:00 p.m. and is from 6:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. A list of hand selected French wines is available to complement your perfect meal. Reservations are suggested.

Reservations are necessary for all events and can be made by calling the Holiday Hotline at (202) 637-7305.

Holiday Lobbying at the Willard
Monday through Saturdays from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., the Willard presents its “Holiday Lobbying” free live music program. Top choral and music ensembles from around Washington perform in the elegant grandeur of the hotel's famous lobby.

  • December 1 -- Washington Chorus Outreach Singers - Outreach ensemble for the Grammy® award- winning chorus.
  • December 2 -- Capital Accord Chorus- Award-winning women's a cappella chorus.
  • December 3- West Potomac High School Colonial Singers - A select ensemble of students performing seasonal music from the 18 th century.
  • December 4 – Potomac Harmony Chorus - An award-winning chapter of Sweet Adelines International - four-voice a cappella and barbershop-style ensemble.
  • December 5- Alexandria Choral Society Children's Chorus - Performing in solo concerts and with the adult choir.
  • December 6- City Singers from the City Choir of Washington – New large ensemble performing traditional music.
  • December 8 - Washington Chorus Outreach Singers - Outreach ensemble for the Grammy® award- winning chorus.
  • December 9 – Musica Oriana Small five or six person vocal ensemble that performs in Renaissance period costume.
  • December 10 – Carmina - An early music vocal ensemble.
  • December 11 – Annandale Singers - Costumed Madrigal vocal ensemble
  • December 12 – Voce – Chamber choral group of 22 artists performing a diverse music from all over the globe.
  • December 13 – 18 th Street Singers – Ensemble of forty young singers performing a fresh, spirited interpretation to traditional choral music.
  • December 15 -- Georgetown Visitation Madrigals - A chamber choir that serves as musical ambassadors of the university.
  • December 16 -- Alexandria Choral Society Children's Chorus - Performing in solo concerts and with the adult choir.
  • December 17 -- J.E.B Stuart High School- Acclaimed high school choral ensemble.
  • December 18 - Children's Chorus of Washington - A premiere children's choral ensemble continually recognized for its artistic excellence.
  • December 19 -- Sound Advice - A female barbershop quartet.
  • December 20 – Capitol Hill Chorale – An ensemble of 10 women performing an eclectic mix of music.
  • December 22 -- Vienna Falls Chorus - Chapter of Sweet Adelines International, singing a cappella in four-part harmony, barbershop style.
  • December 23 – Cantate Chamber Singers – Critically acclaimed vocal ensemble devoted to distinctive choral music.

Bûche de Noël  
The Willard's 2008 holiday Bûche de Noël  cake pays homage to The Washington Ballet's The Nutcracker , by Artistic Director, Septime Webre. The holiday cake, a beautiful ballet slipper in pink covered in Cherry Blossoms, reflects the artistic director's lavish production set in the nation's capital. Priced at $119 including tax, a portion of each purchase will be dedicated to The Washington Ballet's Pointe Shoe Fund. Please call 48 hours in advance to our Holiday Hotline at 202.637.7305.

NUTCRACKER PACKAGES: THE WILLARD AND THE WASHINGTON BALLET

Presented just one block from the hotel at Warner Theatre, The Nutcracker is featured in three holiday packages designed by The Washington Ballet and the Willard. For reservations call (202) 628-9100. For The Washington Ballet schedule, visit www.washingtonballet.org or call (800) 551-SEAT.

Nutcracker Suite Package
Available from December 11 through December 28, the Nutcracker Suite Package includes overnight accommodations for two in a luxurious Suite, breakfast for two, overnight valet parking, premium orchestra seating for The Nutcracker, an exclusive backstage tour of the ballet, a Willard tin with sugar plums and nuts, a horse-drawn carriage ride with Carriages of the Capital, Champagne, assorted fresh-baked cookies and milk and a keepsake Willard ornament. Packages start at $1,421 for two; add $100 for each additional guest.

One-week advance notice is necessary for backstage tour.

Sugar Plum Package
Available December 11 through December 28, this exciting package includes overnight accommodations, breakfast for two, overnight valet parking, premium orchestra seating for The Nutcracker and a Willard tin with sugar plums and nuts. For a Superior Room, the price for two guests starts at $479; add $100 for each additional guest.

Winter Weekend Packages
Warm the chill of winter with a Willard weekend. From November 14 through January 10, accommodations in a Superior guest room start at $299 per night. Breakfast for two and valet parking can be added with rates starting at $359.00. Please ask for our “Winter” special. For reservations, call (202)628-9100.

Stocking Stuffer Ornament
This year's limited edition Willard InterContinental Holiday Ornament celebrates President Lincoln's history at the Willard just in time for the upcoming Lincoln bicentennial celebration. It is available for $30, and can be purchased at our front desk. 20% of the proceeds will be donated to National Children's Medical Center. For questions please call the front desk at (202) 628-9100.

Willard InterContinental Gift Certificates
Gift certificates are available in denominations of $50 and $100, and can be used for guest rooms, or any of our hotel's dining and beverage venues. Certificates may be purchased by visiting or calling our Business Center at (202) 637-7410.

Contact: Barbara Bahny David P. 202.637.7309 E. barbara.bahny@ihg.com

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WILLARD INTERCONTINENTAL SOLE URBAN HISTORIC HOTEL RECIPIENT OF CONDÉ NAST TRAVELER 2008 WORLD SAVERS AWARDS

Washington DC, August 18, 2008 -- Condé Nast Traveler has named the Willard InterContinental Washington DC, a finalist in the magazine‘s 2008 World Savers Awards. The Willard InterContinental is one of 38 companies and the only luxury historic urban hotel, and only hotel in Washington DC, selected worldwide as a leader in social responsibility in the magazine's September issue (on newsstands August 19, 2008).

Seventeen judges reviewed 142 applications and rated how applicants exercise social responsibility in five key areas: poverty alleviation, cultural and/or environmental preservation, education, wildlife conservation, and health. Thirty-eight finalists were named and the final winners were determined by compiling the judges‘ overall rankings. (The full list of finalists, detailing the areas in which they are being honored, is below).

The finalists will be recognized at the World Savers Awards ceremony on September 23rd at the 2nd Annual Cond é Nast Traveler World Savers Congress in New York City.

"These finalists are prime examples of how the world‘s hotels, airlines, cruise lines and tour operators can inspire their peers to improve our world, " said Deputy Editor for Special Projects Dorinda Elliott. "The efforts by these World Savers, from building schools and furnishing much-needed medical supplies to restocking wildlife reserves and dispensing mirco-loans, are models for the entire travel industry.“

"We are honored to be recognized by Cond é Nast Traveler for our committment to sustainable development," said Herv é Houdr é, General Manager of the Willard InterContinental. "It is the responsibility of our industry to help make a difference. By adhering to the principles of the triple bottom line of people, profit and planet, we can positively impact the health and well being of our world.“

The 2008 Condé Nast Traveler World Savers Awards Finalists:

OVERALL FINALISTS:
British Airways, NatureAir, Grand Hyatt Dubai, Willard InterContinental, Washington DC, MSC Cruise Line, Norwegian Cruise Line, Regent Seven Seas, Fairmont, Four Seasons Hotels & Resorts, Anantara Resort Golden Triangle. Puntacana Resort&Club, Shangri-La's Mactan Resort&Spa, Fregate Island Private, Micato Safaris, Rios Tropicales, Thomson Safaris

POVERTY ALLEVIATION
Winner: Campi Ya Kanzi
Runner Up: Accor
Honorable Mentions: Cathay Pacific, Twelve Apostles Hotel and Spa, Disney Cruise Line, Phinda Private Game Reserve, Journeys Within

PRESERVATION
Co-Winners: Vail Resorts and Cristalino Jungle Lodge
Honorable Mentions: Virgin Atlantic Airways, Montage Laguna Beach, Disney Cruise Line, Evason Phuket&Six Senses Spa, Journeys Within

EDUCATION
Winner: Montage Laguna Beach
Runner Up: Banyan Tree Hotels&Resorts
Honorable Mentions: Lufthansa, Disney Cruise Line, Phinda Private Game Reserve, Nkwichi Lodge, Abercrombie& Kent

WILDLIFE
Winner: Phinda Private Game Reserve
Runner Up: Disney Cruise Line
Honorable Mentions: Cathay Pacific. Montage Laguna Beach, Banyan Tree, Campiya Kanzi, Metropolitan Touring

HEALTH
Winner: Journeys Within Our Community
Runner Up: Air France
Honorable Mentions: Jai Mahal Palace, Holland America, Six Senses, Phinda Private Game Reserve, Nukubati Island Great Sea Reef

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RED DOOR SPA OPENS AT THE WILLARD INTERCONTINENTAL

Washington D.C., October 8, 2008 -- This holiday, relax and renew in grand style as The Red Door opens its signature spa at the Willard InterContinental hotel. Defining world-class expertise in the field of beauty, the newly-opened Elizabeth Arden Red Door Spa offers a full array of services which include rejuvenating facial skincare, relaxing massage and body treatments, aroma and aqua therapy, nail care, waxing, makeup artistry and more.

Services include the Red Door Signature Facial with PREVAGE ® , which restores radiance to every skin type for all age ranges. Also available is the Ultimate Arden Facial, a multi-faceted beauty indulgence. Facial enhancement treatments include Collagen, Microdermabrasion and Glycolic Peels.

Diverse massage offerings include the Signature Stress Melter Ritual, Desert Hot Stone and the popular, Red Door Signature Massage. Custom Aromatherapy, Purifying Mineral Marine or Hydrating Milk Aqua Baths set clients adrift in warmth and serenity, and Red Door complements each bath with a specially-selected massage, or a Cream & Sugar body polish.

Red Door's purifying, antioxidant-rich Pomegranate Lime Manicure/Pedicure deeply replenishes hands and feet and offers cold-weather skin protection.

Red Door's retail boutique carries a select collection of premium skincare products and makeup. Red Door Spa Gift Cards and Gift Certificates, redeemable at 31 day spa and resort locations nationwide are available.

To book an appointment or to purchase gift cards or certificates, please call the Red Door Spa at the Willard at 202.942.2700 or visit www.reddoorspas.com.

Contact: Barbara Bahny David, P. 202.637.7309, E. Barbara.bahny@ihg.com

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CAFÉ DU PARC'S REGIONAL FRENCH CUISINE SERIES CELEBRATES
THE GASTRONOMY OF SOUTHWEST FRANCE

Washington D.C, August 5, 2008 -- Southwest France is famous for its beautiful scenery, variety of gastronomic offerings and some of the world's most recognized and respected wines. From September 21 to October 31, Café du Parc at the Willard InterContinental will offer a menu highlighting the distinct cuisine of the five regions comprising this enchanting locale also known as Aquitaine. Menu prices range from $9.95 to $28.95. Prepared by rising star Chef Christophe Marque, the traditional delicacies of Southwest France offered for lunch and dinner will feature:

Dordogne, rich in castles, cave paintings, markets, vineyards and villages, is also known for its rare truffles, earthy mushrooms and rich pâtés. Featured from this region, is the Salade Gascogne, a salad of mixed greens, asparagus, crispy bacon, croutons with a foie gras toast and Poêlée de cêpes en persillade, foie gras, an appetizer of sautéed wild mushrooms, parsley, and shallots, served with foie gras and frisée.

Gironde is famous for its long stretch of sandy beaches, sought-after cognacs and abundant seafood. From this region, Café du Parc is featuring a Lotte rôtie à la Bordelaise, roasted monk fish served in a red wine sauce.

Duck and goose "foie gras" is a specialty of the region of Landes, which is often coupled with grapes or apples. The region also stakes claim to the famous “confit” of duck or goose. From Landes, Chef Marque is featuring Cuisse de canard confit, pommes rissollées, a confit duck leg served with rissole potatoes.

Lot-et-Garonne boasts a rolling countryside complete with vineyards, sunflower-covered valleys and plum orchards . From this region we are featuring a delightful dessert, Soupe de pruneaux à l'Armagnac, glace vanilla ; Armagnac soaked prunes served with a homemade vanilla ice cream.

Known for its strongly flavored dishes Pyrénées-Atlantiques is situated on a plateau above the valley of the Gave de Pau. F rom this area Chef Marque is featuring Cassoulet, a white beans casserole with pork pieces, pork ribs,” Toulouse” sausages, and Garbure, a French country soup of vegetables and duck confit.

S ommelier Caterina Abbruzzetti will be feature affordable wines of France's southwest region by the glass, to a ccompany the specialty dishes. Café du Parc will follow its salute to Southwest France with a winter celebration of the cuisine of Brittany, taking place December 1 through 31. For more information, please call the café at 202.942.7000, or visit www.cafeduparc.com.

Café du Parc, the popular French bistro located next to the Willard InterContinental, opened in April 2007. Serving breakfast, lunch, dinner, afternoon petit plats, takeout lunch items and house specialty French pastries, Café du Parc embraces true classic bistro cuisine with accompanying French wines. Chef Christophe Marque leads Café du Parc's culinary brigade under the guidance consultancy of celebrated Michelin-starred French chef, Antoine Westermann. Call Café du Parc at: 202-942-7000, or visit our Web site at www.cafeduparc.com.

Contact: Barbara Bahny-David
P. 202.637.7309
E. Barbara.bahny@ihg.com

For Immediate Release
For more information, Glenn Withiam, grw4@cornell.edu

 

Cornell Industry White Paper Details Sustainability “Road Map” in Hospitality Sector

Profitability Is Key to Willard InterContinental's Far-reaching Environmental Program

Ithaca, NY, August 6, 2008 -- Offering a detailed “road map” for sustainable operation, a new Industry White Paper from the Cornell Center for Hospitality Research details the comprehensive program implemented by the Willard InterContinental Hotel. The report, “Sustainable Hospitality©: Sustainable Development in the Hotel Industry,” is written by Hervé Houdré, general manager of the Willard. In addition to explaining the Willard's sustainable development program, the Cornell Industry Perspectives paper outlines environmental efforts by several of the hotel industry's major companies, including InterContinental, Marriott, and Taj.

Houdré explains that the basis of sustainable hotel operation is a three-part balance, expressed as “profits, people, and planet.” By taking those three elements into account, Houdré suggests, a sustainable development program becomes economically viable, as well as beneficial to the community and environment. As a result, the “road map” for the Willard InterContinental's sustainability program extends far beyond conservation and recycling to conducting programs in the surrounding community and encouraging both guests and employees to consider a healthy lifestyle.

As part of is sustainability program, the Willard InterContinental has switched its electricity source to 100-percent wind energy, has encouraged employees to walk or run nearly 4,300 miles in 2007, has begun a program of planting Cherry trees near the National Mall, and maintaining Pershing Park, which faces the hotel.

“Our hotel will demonstrate the way that sustainable development will be integral to future hotel operation,” writes Houdré. “I see this as a long-term strategy.” Given the length of time that the Willard has been in operation, Houdré believes that the long term is at least the next one hundred years.

Opened in 1850 on the site of The City Hotel, which was built in 1818, The Willard InterContinental Hotel has become known as “America 's Hotel” because every president since Zachary Taylor has stayed or attended functions at the Willard, and the hotel's history has reflected that of the nation. Comprising 332 guest rooms (including 40 suites) and nearly 20,000 square feet of function space, the Willard is located adjacent to the National Mall in Washington, D.C., two blocks from the White House.

An American institution, the Willard InterContinental is located in the heart of the nation's capital on Pennsylvania Avenue , near the White House, the Smithsonian museums and the downtown business and theatre districts. A leader in Sustainable Hospitality, the Willard is the Washington D.C. hotel of choice for heads of state and leaders of the world's business, cultural, social and political elite. The hotel's 332 well appointed large guestrooms include 40 elegant suites. Dining options include The Willard Room fine dining restaurant and Café du Parc, the popular French bistro with seasonal outdoor seating and traditional Afternoon Tea in Peacock Alley. The luxurious Red Door Spa offers a wide array of pampering treatments. The classic Willard InterContinental combines heritage and luxury with contemporary comfort and the latest technology. Visit www.washington.intercontinental.com.

"Willard InterContinental - The Next 100 Years" is a holistic sustainable hospitality program in harmony with social and ecological consciousness.  Visit www.willarddc.com/sd, a comprehensive guide to the Willard's sustainability efforts.  

Flanked by an elegant portico and marble columns, the multi-level Willard Collection is a plaza comprised of fine retail shops, a courtyard with fountain and seasonal outdoor seating, the Willard Office Building, the Occidental Restaurant, The Willard Room and Café du Parc restaurants, anchored by the historic Willard InterContinental Hotel. Visit www.carrhospitality.com; Tel. 202-349-1441, or visit, www.washington.intercontinental.com.



Hi-Resolution spa images are available. Please contact Meredith Goldberg at 202.637.7304

The I Spa at the Willard is a 5,000 square-foot facility and features five individual treatment rooms offering a wide range of restorative massage, facial and hydrotherapy body treatments; men. s and women's steam rooms which feature decorative Willard . W. floor mosaics, saunas, cardio and weight training equipment, and a 1,350 square-foot outdoor relaxation deck overlooking the hotel courtyard. A separate couple. s treatment room provides tandem tables, a lighted Hydrotherapy Tub with steam shower and a secluded 400 square-foot outdoor deck. Designed by Smith Group, the I SPA expresses oneness with earth, sky and water, blending the warmth of wood with cool porcelain tile with the added texture of river rocks.

The Willard has embarked on a Sustainability program entitled, "Willard InterContinental - The Next 100 Years." The holistic plan is comprised of interwoven sustainable projects designed for a luxurious urban hospitality experience in harmony with social and ecological consciousness. Willard InterContinental Washington D.C. 1401 Pennsylvania Avenue N.W Washington D.C. 20004, for reservations call 202-628-9100, 1-800-827-1747, Web site: www.washington.interconti.com

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Contact: Meredith Goldberg
E-mail meredith.goldberg@ihg.com
Telephone: (202) 637-7304

 

Contact: Barbara Bahny David
E-mail Barbara.bahny@ihg.com
Telephone: (202) 637-7309

 

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