Alaska Airlines and Portland Japanese Garden Launch New Partnership

Alaska Airlines Partnership Supports Culture and Community Engagement

Alaska Airlines and Portland Japanese Garden have announced a new multi-year partnership aimed at supporting cultural exchange, community engagement and visitor experiences across the Pacific Northwest.

The collaboration brings together two organizations with a shared focus on creating meaningful connections through culture, education and community initiatives. Through the partnership, Alaska Airlines will support the Garden’s mission of promoting harmony and peace by helping share Japanese culture with broader audiences.

As part of the agreement, Portland Japanese Garden will be featured on Alaska Airlines’ float during the 2026 Rose Festival Grand Floral Parade in Portland. The display will introduce parade attendees and viewers to elements of the Garden’s cultural heritage and landscape.

The partnership will also support programmes designed to enhance visitor experiences, expand access to cultural activities and strengthen engagement with local communities.

Jeanette Waddle, Public Affairs Manager at Alaska Airlines, said the partnership reflects values shared by both organisations, including connection, care and respect for communities. She added that the collaboration will help create opportunities for people to engage with cultural experiences across the region.

Aki Nakanishi and Lisa Christy , Co-Chief Executive Officers of Portland Japanese Garden, said the partnership will support the Garden’s efforts to strengthen cultural ties with Japan and provide visitors with opportunities to experience Japanese culture through its programmes and events.

The airline has served Portland since 1979 and currently has more than 2,900 employees based in the city, including Alaska Airlines, Horizon Air, and Hawaiian Airlines. The airline said the partnership reinforces its ongoing commitment to Portland and its communities through initiatives that promote cultural understanding and community connections.

The collaboration is expected to support a range of future activities aimed at increasing public engagement and strengthening cultural exchange opportunities throughout the region.

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