This year marks the most exciting Sea Stars celebration yet! To recognize this year’s 30th anniversary of Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary, the annual Sea Stars Brunch is shifting to a formal, evening Sea Stars Gala — not to be missed! We expect our 300-500 guests to include movie stars, politicians, award-winning musicians, photographers, filmmakers, and the who’s who of marine conservation. 

When: September 17th, 2022, 5:00pm

Where: The historic Cocoanut Grove Ballroom at the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk

Along with dinner, drinks, fabulous silent and live auctions, live music, and dancing, our program will include:

• Presentations to our 2022 Sea Stars in Research, Resource Protection, Education and Outreach, Business/Recreation/Tourism, and the overall Panetta Sea Star
• Talks from Secretary Leon Panetta and our esteemed board of directors
• The premiere of the teaser short film about the history of the sanctuary
• A special presentation by National Geographic photographer Frans Lanting

In celebratory ocean theme, guests are invited to dress in “Blue” tie (tuxedos with blue bow ties) and blue/green ballgowns. But of course, all apparel is welcome. Instead of a “red carpet,” we plan to have a “blue carpet,” with probable paparazzi in attendance. The ballroom will be decorated by provocative works of art from Ethan Estess and playful art created by K-5th grade students from Westlake Elementary School. 

All proceeds from the Sea Stars Gala will support critical wildlife protection and educational programs for Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary. Thank you to our sponsors for helping make this night possible! Additional sponsorship opportunities are still available. 

Contact Ginaia@marinesanctuary.org for more information or visit our website at montereybayfoundation.org.