The iconic Portland hotel continues its time-honored holiday tradition with an elaborate Gingerbread Display of The Royal Palace of Oz, a nod to the Emerald City, Wicked and the Wizard of Oz.
PORTLAND, Ore. (December 4, 2025) – The Benson Portland, part of the Curio Collection by Hilton, invites the public back once again to see its Gingerbread Masterpiece, a beloved 54-year holiday tradition. This year, the historic hotel unveiled The Royal Palace of Oz, a castle inspired by Emerald City, a nod to Wicked and the Wizard of Oz. The event took place December 2 in the grand lobby, surrounded by festive trimmings. The masterpiece will be on display through January 4.
The Benson invites visitors to admire the spectacular Royal Palace of Oz, with its towers, turrets, and glittering glass windows. This majestic creation is made entirely of confectionary delights, with over 150 pounds of house-made gingerbread, 50 pounds of marzipan, 30 pounds of chocolate, 12 pounds of Rice Krispies treats and buckets of royal icing.
The holiday masterpiece is once again the creation of Executive Chef David Diffendorfer, who has been delighting guests for over 20 years with his intricate, larger-than-life gingerbread designs. Chef Diffendorfer’s creations have become synonymous with Portland’s holiday season — combining culinary artistry, architectural precision, and a dash of wonder that keeps guests coming back year after year.
“The Gingerbread Unveiling has been a cherished tradition at The Benson for over five decades,” says Ryan Kunzer, General Manager. “Each year, Chef Diffendorfer and his team create something magical that brings the community together in the spirit of the season.”
While visiting The Benson Portland and the gingerbread masterpiece 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 15.
For more information on the 2025 Gingerbread Masterpiece and The Benson Portland, please visit www.bensonhotel.com.
