9-11-2026 5:16am

Toast to the Casa: An Evening in Paradise | Casa Romantica | Sept. 19

Eric Bergstrom Editor

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San Clemente’s Casa Romantica Cultural Center and Gardens has long been known as a slice of paradise, and this September, paradise is throwing a party!

As the nonprofit looks ahead to a milestone year celebrating the centennial of its historic home and 25 years as a cultural center in 2027, Casa Romantica is setting the stage for its signature fundraising gala, Toast to the Casa: An Evening in Paradise, on Saturday, September 19, from 5:00 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.

This year, the oceanfront estate will transform into a roaming, tropical-inspired celebration filled with live music, dancing, food and drinks, playful experiences and plenty of surprises. And from the moment guests arrive, they’ll know they’ve stepped into paradise: hula dancers will greet attendees as they enter, while custom-embossed fresh coconuts filled with coconut water will serve as the evening’s welcome drink.

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Taking center stage in the Courtyard will be a live performance by San Clemente’s own Kalama Brothers, bringing their signature sound to the heart of the celebration. Later, the hula dancers will return for a special performance, while DJ NOMIS keeps the party going on the Ocean Terrace, where guests can dance against the backdrop of sweeping Pacific Ocean views.

Designed as a roaming gala, Toast to the Casa invites guests to explore the historic home and gardens while enjoying bites and beverages from a lineup of local and regional partners, including The Fisherman’s Restaurant and Bar, Avila’s El Ranchito, 24 Carrots Catering and Events, California Fresh Catering and Events, Nolet Spirits USA, Coconut Man LA, and many more.

A little friendly competition will add to the fun with the Flamingo Toss Wine Game, where guests can test their ring-toss skills for the chance to take home a bottle of wine, with better throws unlocking better bottles. The evening will also offer plenty of opportunities to raise a hand for a good cause. A live auction will feature standout experiences and prizes including fine art, a Bali vacation, and a Holland America cruise, while an online silent auction will extend the festivities beyond the estate, allowing supporters to participate even if they cannot attend Toast to the Casa in person.

At the heart of this year’s celebration are two longtime supporters who have helped Casa Romantica through some of the most significant moments in its history. David and Marcy Peter have been named Honorary Chairs of Toast to the Casa, recognizing their leadership, philanthropy and steadfast dedication to the nonprofit organization. From historic restoration projects to supporting Casa Romantica through its recent landslide recovery, the Peters’ commitment reflects the spirit of community that has sustained the beloved San Clemente landmark for generations.

This year’s Toast arrives at an especially meaningful moment for Casa Romantica as the estate prepares to celebrate 100 years of the historic Spanish Colonial Revival home and the Cultural Center’s 25th anniversary. The organization is looking toward its next chapter while continuing its mission to preserve the historic estate and provide arts, cultural and educational programming for the community.

“Toast to the Casa is a celebration of everything that makes Casa Romantica so special: the beauty of this historic place, the arts and culture that bring it to life, and the incredible community that continues to stand behind us,” said Kylie Travis, Co-Executive Director of Casa Romantica Cultural Center and Gardens. “As we look ahead to two milestone anniversaries in 2027, this year’s Toast feels especially meaningful. We are thrilled to honor David and Marcy Peter for the extraordinary role they have played in Casa’s story, and we invite our community to join us for an unforgettable evening that helps ensure this treasured place continues to thrive for generations to come.”

More than a night in paradise, Toast to the Casa is an opportunity to invest in the organization’s future. Proceeds from the evening directly support Casa Romantica Cultural Center and Gardens, helping the nonprofit preserve its historic home and gardens while continuing to bring exhibitions, performances, educational programs and cultural experiences to the community.

Toast to the Casa: An Evening in Paradise takes place Saturday, September 19, 2026, from 5 to 9:30 p.m. at Casa Romantica Cultural Center and Gardens in San Clemente. Early Bird tickets are $175 through August 31, 2026 and increase to $225 beginning September 1, 2026. Sponsorship opportunities are also available and include reserved seating in the Courtyard near the main stage and live auction.