Explore Washington Park

Cultural Demonstration: Ikebana by Nana Bellerud
2026-04-10 13:15 - 14:30 (America/Los_Angeles) | Portland Japanese Garden, 611 SW Kingston Ave, Portland, OR, 97205, United States
Ikebana, the Japanese art of flower arranging, has been translated as “living flowers” or “giving life to flowers.” Join us from 1:15-2:15pm for an ikebana presentation by Nana Bellerud from the Sogetsu School of Ikebana in the Jordan Schnitzer Japanese Arts Learning Center. The Sogetsu School is known for its willingness to explore new ideas and materials. The founder, Sofu Teshigahara, broke away from tradition in 1927 to establish his new school based on the belief that anyone can create ikebana anywhere, and with almost anything. The Sogetsu philosophy advocates that ikebana should be part of a lifestyle, appreciated by many people from all over the world, rather than being considered an exclusive aspect of Japanese culture to be enjoyed by a limited number of people. This event is included with garden admission.

Healing Herbs of the Arboretum
2026-04-10 11:00 - 13:00 | Hoyt Arboretum, 4000 SW Fairview Blvd, Portland, OR, 97221, United States
The plants that surround us are full of healing and nourishing properties, if we know where to look! Join community herbalist Missy Rohs for a stroll around the Arboretum to explore the medicinal trees, weeds, and native plants we encounter. You will talk about which parts to use and which plants to avoid. You may even discover a new use for a plant you thought you knew well! This event is coordianted by Hoyt Arboretum and registration is required through their website.

Cloud Forest Volunteers
2026-04-10 10:00 - 12:00, 2026-04-03 10:00 - 12:00 | Washington Park, 4033 SW Canyon Rd, Portland, OR, 97221, United States
Join Portland Parks & Recreation in the Cloud Forest in Washington Park most Fridays, rain or shine. Spend a couple of hours with us, weeding, mulching, planting, and learning about invasive plant management. We will meet near the restroom building at the Oregon Holocaust Memorial and the project site is located right across from here. Registration required.

Forest Field Day: Stewardship Day
2026-04-09 13:00 - 15:00, 2026-04-08 13:00 - 15:00 | Hoyt Arboretum, 4000 SW Fairview Blvd, Portland, OR, 97221, United States
What does it mean to be a steward? As Earth Day approaches, let’s explore the Arboretum with a focus on how we can care for our forests and the natural environment. Small changes by individuals of all ages can have a long lasting impact. Join us to learn more! This event is coordinated by Hoyt Arboretum and registration is required through their website.

Cultural Demonstration: Tea Ceremony
2026-04-08 13:15 - 14:30, 2026-04-04 13:15 - 14:30, 2026-04-03 13:15 - 14:30 | Portland Japanese Garden, 611 SW Kingston Ave, Portland, OR, 97205, United States
Portland Japanese Garden will offer free public demonstrations of Chadō, the Way of Tea, at the Cathy Rudd Cultural Corner in the Jordan Schnitzer Japanese Arts Learning Center from 1:15 – 2:15pm. The Way of Tea is intrinsically linked to Japanese gardens and understanding the kokoro (heart) of Japanese gardening. The traditional Japanese tea ceremony is a manner of preparing and drinking a bowl of tea. More than just making tea, it reflects the Japanese sense of omotenashi, or wholehearted hospitality. It involves choreographed movements where both the host and guest escape the fast pace of life and experience calm. Included with garden admission.

Akari, Ikebana Display Presented by Saga Goryu School - North American Chapter
2026-04-08 10:00 - 2026-04-11 18:00 | Portland Japanese Garden, 611 SW Kingston Ave, Portland, OR, 97205, United States
Shakamuni Buddha’s birthday is commemorated on the eighth day of the fourth month. In Japan, this celebration is called Hana Matsuri. Saga Goryu North America Chapter will offer an ikebana installation for Hana Matsuri at Portland Japanese Garden from April 8 through 11. Members and guests who pay admission can enjoy this special display in the Atsuhiko and Ina Goodwin Tateuchi Foundation Courtyard. The theme of this year’s ikebana installation is akari, or “bright,” which was inspired by the Imperial New Year’s Poetry Reading. Ikebana, the Japanese art of flower arranging, has been translated as “living flowers” or “giving life to flowers.” It dates to the sixth century when China and Korea introduced Buddhism to Japan. Floral offerings, known as kuge, were placed on the altar of temples. Viewing this display is included with garden admission.

Forest Hope Through Innovation
2026-04-07 10:00 - 2026-04-12 16:00, 2026-03-31 10:00 - 2026-04-05 16:00 | Discovery Museum, 4033 SW Canyon Rd, Portland, OR, 97221, United States
Forest Hope Through Innovation is an interdisciplinary art-forest-science exhibition at World Forestry Center’s Discovery Museum that explores how creativity, research, and community action can shape a sustainable future for the forests we rely on. Featuring work by more than twelve innovators, the exhibition highlights the aesthetics of emerging forest-based research—from technology and engineering to design and artist-scientist collaborations. Featuring work by more than twelve innovators, the exhibition highlights the aesthetics of emerging forest-based research—from technology and engineering to design and artist-scientist collaborations. In this moment of climate uncertainty, World Forestry Center is leveraging creativity, art, and storytelling to spotlight forest-based solutions as an optimistic path forward. Forest Hope Through Innovation is designed to spark climate hope and inspire community-based approaches that support resilient forests for generations to come. Included with museum admission.

Tree Time! Preschool Walk
2026-04-06 10:00 - 11:15, 2026-04-04 10:00 - 11:15 | Hoyt Arboretum, 4000 SW Fairview Blvd, Portland, OR, 97221, United States
Tree Time! preschool walks are a safe and fun way to get outside with your little one. Come join us for a story and guided walk on the trails at Hoyt Arboretum. We will use all of our senses to explore the natural surroundings and maybe even get our hands dirty! Staff and trained Arboretum volunteers will introduce you and your family to the plants, trees, insects, mushrooms, and more found at Hoyt Arboretum. This event is coordinated by Hoyt Arboretum and registration is required through their website.

Public Tour
2026-04-05 11:00 - 12:00 | Hoyt Arboretum, 4000 SW Fairview Blvd, Portland, OR, 97221, United States
Explore one of Hoyt Arboretum’s three nationally-accredited collections with a knowledgeable guide. Public Tours will follow seasonal routes to highlight the flowering trees and the Magnolia Collection in the spring, the Conifer Collection in the summer, and fall color and the Maple Collection in the fall. Public tours are free and coordinated by Hoyt Arboretum Friends. There is no fee to attend, but donations are appreciated and support education programs at Hoyt Arboretum. Sign up in person at the Visitor Center on the day of the tour.

Rooted in Resilience: A Forest Therapy Walk for Those on a Healing Journey
2026-04-04 13:00 - 15:00 | Hoyt Arboretum, 4000 SW Fairview Blvd, Portland, OR, 97221, United States
Step into the quiet embrace of the forest for a gentle, restorative experience designed for those whose lives have been shaped by a healing journey—whether physical, emotional, or spiritual. Guided by the principles of Forest Therapy, this walk invites you to slow down, reconnect with your senses, and find comfort in the companionship of trees and the rhythms of the natural world. Through a series of mindful invitations, we’ll explore presence, connection, and the quiet strength that lives within and around us. Whether you’re caring for yourself or someone else, walking through a time of change, or simply seeking a moment of peace, you are welcome here—just as you are. All bodies, stories, and paces are honored. This event is coordinated by Hoyt Arboretum, and registration is required through their website.

Hop into Spring
2026-04-04 09:00 - 17:00 | Oregon Zoo, 4001 SW Canyon Rd, Portland, OR, 97221, United States
It’s time to Hop into Spring at the Oregon Zoo! This family-friendly event is filled with fun activities tailored especially for kids 8 and under. Spend the day enjoying lawn games, animal encounters, magic shows, puppet performers, coloring and crafts, a bubble party and live entertainment. Plenty of festive costumed characters will be on hand to meet and greet guests, offer photo ops and help welcome the return of the spring season. Plus, check out special bunny keeper chats at the Family Farm. Of course, no spring celebration would be complete without an egg hunt! Egg hunts will take place throughout the day around the concert lawn area with participants grouped by ages. Participation in the egg hunt is $5 and includes a complimentary train or carousel ride! Just choose the add-on option to register for the egg hunt when purchasing your tickets. Members: Admission is free and reservations are not required. You must purchase the egg hunt add-on to participate in that activity.

Saturday Crew
2026-04-04 09:00 - 12:00 | Hoyt Arboretum, 4000 SW Fairview Blvd, Portland, OR, 97221, United States
Volunteer to care for Hoyt Arboretum’s trees and trails with the Saturday Crew! With 189-acres and more than 6,000 trees along 12 miles of trails, volunteers are incredibly important to maintaining Hoyt Arboretum’s tree collection and trail system, and it’s a unique opportunity for volunteers to learn about and care for rare and unusual trees and plants from around the world. No previous stewardship crew experience is required; training, tools, gloves, and volunteer parking passes are provided. Registration is required through the Hoyt Arboretum website.

Member Garden Tour
2026-04-04 09:00 - 10:00 | Portland Japanese Garden, 611 SW Kingston Ave, Portland, OR, 97205, United States
Join one of our volunteer guides on a free Garden tour for members and their guests only, during member hours. Our knowledgeable tour guides, some of whom have been patrons of Portland Japanese Garden for decades, will provide members with interesting and informative cultural, historical, and horticultural information about the Garden. Whether you just joined as a member for the first time, or have been a long-time supporter, guided tours can provide new insights into the vision of the Garden and its place in the community. Tours will begin in the Atsuhiko and Ina Goodwin Tateuchi Foundation Courtyard starting at 9:00am, and typically last about 45 minutes.

Nature's Colors: Watercolor Basics for Nature Journaling
2026-04-03 13:30 - 15:30 | Hoyt Arboretum, 4000 SW Fairview Blvd, Portland, OR, 97221, United States
In this series of very beginner-friendly classes, students will learn the basics of mixing and painting with watercolor paints in popular colors for nature drawings. Using just a few paints, we will focus on creating a range of nature-inspired colors using the three primaries of red, yellow and blue, as well as learning techniques for applying paint to paper. Each week will be dedicated to creating a range of hues within a color family: gorgeous greens, beautiful blues, vibrant reds and oranges, and luminous neutrals. This event is coordinated by Hoyt Arboretum and registration is required through their website.

Member Extended Hours
2026-04-02 18:30 - 20:00 | Portland Japanese Garden, 611 SW Kingston Ave, Portland, OR, 97205, United States
As the sun begins to set and the daily crowds depart, we invite our members and their guests to experience the Garden in one of its most tranquil states. During these exclusive extended hours, you can enjoy a peaceful stroll through the winding paths, taking in the shifting light and evening serenity that few get to witness. Reservations recommended.

Magnolia Tour with the Curator
2026-04-02 12:00 - 13:00 | Hoyt Arboretum, 4000 SW Fairview Blvd, Portland, OR, 97221, United States
Join Hoyt Arboretum’s Curator, Martin Nicholson for his annual tour through Hoyt’s nationally-accredited Magnolia Collection! Enjoy one of Portland’s best displays of spring color while learning about this ancient and diverse species of trees. The Magnolia Tour will occur rain or shine. Dress for the weather, and wear comfortable shoes for walking on trails. The route is less than 1 mile and will include some ups and downs (and a short staircase) along the way. Most of the tour route will travel on well-graded packed dirt or gravel trails. Pre-registration through the Hoyt Arboretum website is required (group size is limited).

Forest Stories
2026-04-01 11:30 - 12:00 | Discovery Museum, 4033 SW Canyon Rd, Portland, OR, 97221, United States
On the first Wednesday of the month, join us in the Discovery Museum’s reading nook for Forest Stories. A storytime dedicated to forests and forest-themed books that connect adults and children and engage the imagination. Coloring pages are also available. Included with museum admission.

Textile Workshop: Portland Japanese Garden Tote with Sashiko Peace Lantern with Judilee Fitzhugh
2026-04-01 09:30 - 16:00 | Portland Japanese Garden, 611 SW Kingston Ave, Portland, OR, 97205, United States
Portland Japanese Garden is partnering with textile artisan Judilee Fitzhugh to offer a series of four immersive textile workshops. In each session, participants will relax and enjoy the rhythmic dance of needle and thread while learning the meditative art of hand-stitching to create Japanese- and garden-inspired projects. This workshop runs from 9:30am–4:00pm, including six hours of instruction and a 30-minute lunch break. Participation is limited to 20 students per workshop, and classes are open to students of all levels of sewing experience.

Tree Time! Preschool Walk
2026-03-30 10:00 - 11:15 | Hoyt Arboretum, 4000 SW Fairview Blvd, Portland, OR, 97221, United States
Tree Time! preschool walks are a safe and fun way to get outside with your little one. Come join us for a story and guided walk on the trails at Hoyt Arboretum. We will use all of our senses to explore the natural surroundings and maybe even get our hands dirty! Staff and trained Arboretum volunteers will introduce you and your family to the plants, trees, insects, mushrooms, and more found at Hoyt Arboretum. This event is coordinated by Hoyt Arboretum, and registration is required through their website.

MAC Trail Volunteers
2026-03-30 09:00 - 11:00 | Washington Park, 4033 SW Canyon Rd, Portland, OR, 97221, United States
Join Portland Parks & Recreation on the MAC Trail in Washington Park most Mondays, rain or shine. The MAC Trail winds its way through the park, connecting community and visitors to the parks many amenities and attractions. Spend a couple of hours with us, weeding, mulching, planting, and learning about invasive plant management. Meet at the Elephant House Picnic Shelter, near the Washington Park playground. Registration is required.

Forest Crafts w/ RAD Creative Space
2026-03-29 11:00 - 13:00 | Discovery Museum, 4033 SW Canyon Rd, Portland, OR, 97221, United States
Join us once a month and explore your creative nature here at World Forestry Center’s Discovery Museum with our friend at RAD Creative. From Forests in a Bottle to paper snails, seed shares, and fairy houses – tap into your creative side and make something memorable. This event is family-friendly, and crafts are geared toward kids who can independently use scissors, glue sticks, and basic school supplies or with parental assistance. All crafts vary in presentation. Adult supervision at all times is required. Craft supplies, tools, and guidance are included with museum admission and do not require pre-registration.

Ceramic Flower Vase
2026-03-29 10:30 - 12:30 | Hoyt Arboretum, 4000 SW Fairview Blvd, Portland, OR, 97221, United States
Join Angela from The Nature Atelier for a ceramic workshop that celebrates the beauty of plants and the coming of Spring. In this workshop we will make a vase infused with nature. You will turn a slab of clay into a usable work of art with the imprints of your favorite flowers and leaves just in time for all the spring flowers to return. Participants will have the opportunity to add pops of color to their creations. All materials are provided, but feel free to bring plant clippings from your garden to include in your designs. This event is coordinated by Hoyt Arboretum and registration is required through their website.

The Transformative History of Mokuhanga: A Curator Talk with Stephen Salel
2026-03-28 15:00 - 16:00 | Portland Japanese Garden, 611 SW Kingston Ave, Portland, OR, 97205, United States
The art of mokuhanga, Japanese woodblock printing, has captivated audiences around the world and across centuries. Join Stephen Salel, Curator of Japanese Art at the Honolulu Museum of Art and Co-Curator of Enduring Impressions: Contemporary Woodblock Prints, to discover the fascinating history and exciting contemporary landscape of this iconic printmaking practice. The magic of this artform has only grown in appeal in recent years, as artists and appreciators are drawn to its tactile nature and, naturally-derived material. Aki Nakanishi, Portland Japanese Garden’s Co-CEO and Arlene Schnitzer Curator of Culture, Art, and Education, will join Salel for a conversation on the intricacies and beauty behind this artform. Tickets required.

Cultural Perfomance: Koto and Violin
2026-03-28 13:15 - 14:30 | Portland Japanese Garden, 611 SW Kingston Ave, Portland, OR, 97205, United States
Enjoy a free koto and violin performance by Masumi Timson and Fumino Ando at 1:15pm at the Cathy Rudd Cultural Corner in the Jordan Schnitzer Japanese Arts Learning Center. The standard Koto is a thirteen-string plucked zither. It was introduced to Japan from China through the Korean Peninsula in the 7th century. The instrument has been part of the Gagaku court ensemble for over one thousand years, gradually becoming popular among the merchant classes of the Edo period (1600-1868). An important member of the traditional Sankyoku ensemble, along with the three-string Shamisen and Shakuhachi (bamboo flute), the Koto developed further in a solo capacity, eventually gaining its place as one of Japan’s most prominent musical instruments. Today a varied repertoire along with a wide range of playing techniques provides a wonderful palette of sound textures, making the Koto appealing to audiences the world over. Included with garden admission.
