Portland’s Lan Su Chinese Garden transformed into a hub of Lunar New Year energy this week as crowds gathered to welcome the Year of the Horse. The 26-year-old Suzhou-style garden, a symbol of cultural exchange between Portland and its Chinese sister city, hosted traditional lion dances, dragon parades, and hands-on craft workshops from February 17–19.
Cultural Highlights
Visitors experienced authentic performances by local Asian diaspora groups, including rhythmic drumming troupes and martial arts demonstrations. Children crafted paper lanterns while elders shared stories about the Horse zodiac’s symbolism of perseverance – a theme resonating strongly in 2026’s post-pandemic recovery climate.
A Bridge Between Cultures
Built in 2000 through collaboration with Suzhou artisans, the garden’s moon gates and koi ponds provided a picturesque backdrop for this cross-cultural celebration. Organizers noted record attendance this year, reflecting growing U.S. interest in Asian traditions amid strengthened economic ties with the Chinese mainland.
