Celebrate Dongzhi (冬至 Winter Solstice)
Weekends from December 6-21, 2025
Step into Portland’s only authentic Chinese garden transformed into a festive winter wonderland—adorned with glowing lanterns and twinkling lights. Celebrate Dongzhi (冬至, the Winter Solstice) with Asian Santa, live music, hands-on fun, and a dazzling lion dance.
See below for the full lineup of activities!
Daytime Festivities
All daytime activities are free with admission or membership unless otherwise noted.
Explore each offering below, then choose a date to get admission.
Meet Asian Santa
Saturdays & Sundays, Dec. 6-7, 13-14, & 20-21 | 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM | $5/group of 6 people*
Join us for a unique cross-cultural holiday experience! Take photos with Asian Santa, enjoy the festive atmosphere, and receive a blessing that carries both the brightness of the holiday season and the serenity of ancient Chinese aesthetics.
*$10 for 7-12 people, $15 for 13-19, etc. Regular garden admission is also required for each person in the group.
Holiday Shopping Pop-Ups
Sunday, Dec. 7 | 10:00 AM – 4:30 PM
Explore themed shopping rooms throughout the pavilions, each offering brand-new merchandise revealed for the first time during this garden-wide experience!
Members see it first on Saturday, Dec. 6, with perks like 20% off, complimentary drinks, and a donation-based gift wrap station!
Warm Hearts, Warm Ears: The Story of Dumplings
Saturdays & Sundays, Dec. 13-14 & 20-21 | 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM
You love dumplings—but do you know where they come from? Uncover the tale of compassion and cleverness wrapped inside every dumpling, then make your own dumpling craft to take home.
Nourishing the Body and Mind: Tea Chat with Tea Master Eric
Saturdays, Dec. 13 & 20 | 1:00-2:00 PM
Experience the gentle side of winter this season at Lan Su. Discover how ancient Chinese scholars cultivated health and happiness with tea.
Scholar’s Centerpiece: Exploring Qinggong (清供)
Sundays, Dec. 14 & 21 | 1:00-2:00 PM
Qinggong (清供) also known as “pure offering” is the cultivated expression of a scholar’s taste, creativity, and cultural refinement. Our winter display, 光輝歲月 “Radiant Years,” is a collection of scholarly and aesthetic items that someone in their peak years would have been proud of. Join Lan Su’s Curator of Horticulture, Josie Losh, to explore the intention behind the elements included.
Scent and Seal (打香篆): An Incense Art Experience
Sundays, Dec. 14 & 21 | 10:00-11:00 AM
Incense seal making is a refined way of burning incense. Using special tools, participants gently smooth the ash and press a mold to create intricate incense patterns. The process is both calming and creative. Join us to discover how Chinese scholars transformed this simple ritual into a moment of peace and inspiration.Nighttime Excitement
All activities are included in the ticket price. Explore each offering below, then choose a date to get tickets.
Roar of Winter: Illuminated Lion Dance Performance
Fridays & Saturdays, Dec. 12-13 & 19-20 | 6:00-6:40 PM
On a calm winter night, a magical, powerful, and graceful lion comes to life at Lan Su, dancing among the shimmering holiday lights. Come experience the breathtaking illuminated lion dance by Portland Lee’s Association—where radiance, strength, and beauty meet in celebration!
Melodies of Winter Cheer
Fridays & Saturdays, Dec. 12-13 & 19-20 | 5:00-6:00 PM
Relax in the joyful atmosphere of classic Christmas songs and festive melodies with a touch of Chinese elegance, performed by local duo Sharon and Dan. Sharon Gan is the founder of Heart Strings Mandarin, an early-childhood Mandarin music and movement program. Daniel is a composer, classical guitarist, and bassist who enjoys playing world music. He plays with the Beaverton Symphony and with local groups like Arco PDX.
Dongzhi Kitchen: Hands-on Tangyuan and Dumpling Making
Fridays & Saturdays, Dec. 12-13 & 19-20 | 5:00-7:00 PM
A debate unresolved for centuries: Dumplings or sweet rice balls—what should you eat for Dongzhi? Join us for a hands-on experience making both tangyuan and dumplings, then sample each and decide your favorite!