PORTLAND (December 1, 2022) – The Benson Portland, part of the Curio Collection by Hilton, invites the public back once again to see its Gingerbread Masterpiece, a beloved 50-year holiday tradition. This year’s theme, “Multnomah Falls,” honors the beloved Oregon attraction, the hotel’s founder Simon Benson, and his decade of public service to the state of Oregon and the city of Portland.
The unveiling took place yesterday in the grand lobby, surrounded by festive trimmings. The masterpiece will be on display through December 30.
The Benson invites visitors to admire this giant replica of Multnomah Falls, the most-visited natural recreation site in the Pacific Northwest. It includes Multnomah Falls Lodge, Crown Point Vista House, and other scenic points on the historic Columbia River Highway. Over 150 pounds of homemade gingerbread, 50 pounds of marzipan, 20 pounds of chocolate, 10 pounds of Rice Krispies Treats and buckets of royal icing went into this majestic creation.
“With this special, 50-year holiday tradition, we are delighted to bring tidings of comfort and joy to generations of guests throughout December,” said Mark Goeman, managing director of The Benson Portland.
Accomplished architect and professional pastry chef David Diffendorfer has been revered as the culinary mastermind behind the renowned annual gingerbread display for nearly three decades. A graduate of the Western Culinary Institute, he studied industrial design at the Art Institute of Portland, earned a degree in geography, and taught baking and pastry at the Art Institute for eight years. His past masterpieces for The Benson include Château Loire, Neuschwanstein Castle, Saint Vitus Cathedral and his first American castle, Biltmore House.
While visiting The Benson Portland and the gingerbread masterpiece on display, guests are invited to learn more about Simon Benson and his many contributions by visiting the hotel’s Historic Stairwell. This mini museum features over 160 photos and stories of Portland and its many historic landmark buildings, including the venerable Benson and its transformation over a hundred years. Visitors are invited to inspect rare photos and read stories about the film stars, musicians, athletes, presidents and other luminaries who have all marveled at the timeless beauty of Portland’s historic hotel in this unique exhibit.
For more information on the 2022 Gingerbread Masterpiece and The Benson Portland, please visit www.bensonhotel.com.
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About The Benson Portland, Curio Collection by Hilton
Established in 1913, the historic Benson Hotel is the city’s only premier hotel that unites the charm and civility of the Old World with the elegance of contemporary design and mindful service. In homage to the hotel’s namesake, Simon Benson, guests are invited to experience legendary service, European design, opulently sized guest rooms and suites, five-star dining and an acclaimed lobby bar. The Benson seeks to cultivate the best in all of us. For more information, visit www.bensonhotel.com. If you would like to stay in touch, please like The Benson Hotel on Facebook or follow @TheBensonHotel on Twitter and Instagram.
MEDIA CONTACT
Elitsa Yaneva
Public Relations, GreenRubino for Coast Hospitality Management and The Benson Portland
P: 425-495-2819
E: elitsay@greenrubino.com
