The Benson Portland to Unveil 53rd Annual Gingerbread Masterpiece
The past few years have been tough for downtown Portland but there are some rays of light and one longstanding Portland tradition returns for the 2024 holiday season. The Benson Portland, Curio Collection by Hilton, will host its 53rd Annual Gingerbread Masterpiece unveiling on Tuesday, December 3, 2024, at 6:00pm. This beloved holiday tradition will bring an evening of joy, music, and festive surprises for all ages.
The Gingerbread Masterpiece is a new creation each season that stays on display in the hotel’s lobby throughout the holiday season. This year, Chef David Diffendorfer has utilized over 150 pounds of house-made gingerbread, 50 pounds of marzipan, 20 pounds of chocolate, 10 pounds of Rice Krispies treats, and buckets of royal icing to craft a breathtaking gingerbread creation. While the details of this year’s masterpiece will remain a secret until the unveiling on December 3rd, it is inspired by the rich and fascinating history of a whimsical structure that has captivated tourists with its fairy-tale appearances for centuries.
This year’s unveiling will feature live music, enchanting holiday caroling, and complimentary hot chocolate, creating a magical atmosphere for all attendees. In a delightful twist, guests can look forward to a surprise visit from Santa, adding to the holiday spirit of the event.
When Bailey’s Taproom was open a block away, we would always swing by The Benson each December to take a look at the Gingerbread Masterpiece. It was a nice stop to get in the spirit and to grab a winter cocktail or beer at the hotel’s bar inside The Palm Court. This year it is on our calendar to make a return visit!
While visiting The Benson Portland and the Gingerbread Mmasterpiece on display, guests are invited to make the holidays brighter for countless children in our community this holiday season by bringing a new, unwrapped toy to support the annual Fox 12 Les Schwab Tire Centers Toy Drive. Toy donations can be dropped off at The Benson’s hotel lobby through December 10, 2024.
The Benson Portland is a historic hotel that blends timeless elegance with modern comforts. As part of the Curio Collection by Hilton, it offers guests a unique experience in the heart of Portland, attracting visitors from near and far.
The Benson Portland – 309 SW Broadway – Portland, OR
About The Author
DJ
D.J. is a Portland, Oregon based writer that spent his formative years in the Midwest. With over 25 years under his belt of drinking beer at festivals across America and the world, he has developed a strong appreciation and understanding of craft beer and the industry that surrounds it. He can be found in any of the great breweries or beer bars that make Portland the best beer city in the world. His writing can also be found in the archives of Northwest Brewing News and can be followed on Twitter and Instagram at @hopapalooza.