There could hardly have been a more dramatic setting for a midsummer evening in San Diego. On August 1, the magnificent Spreckels Organ Pavilion in Balboa Park was transformed for Patrons of the Prado’s MASTERPIECE gala, One Haute Havana Night — an elegant celebration filled with the color, romance and spirited sophistication of Havana.
Against the iconic backdrop of the Organ Pavilion, guests gathered for an evening that brought together many of San Diego’s philanthropic and cultural supporters. The atmosphere captured the glamour of a bygone Havana, creating a festive setting where fashion, conversation, entertainment and celebration shared the evening with a far greater purpose: supporting the remarkable cultural institutions that call Balboa Park home.
For nearly three decades, Patrons of the Prado has served as an important champion for the museums, theaters, science centers and cultural organizations located along Balboa Park’s historic Prado. The all-volunteer nonprofit raises both funds and awareness for these institutions, helping them continue the exhibitions, performances and educational programs that enrich the lives of children, families and visitors throughout San Diego.
MASTERPIECE has become the organization’s signature fundraising celebration and one of the highlights of San Diego’s summer social calendar. While the evening is known for its imaginative themes and spectacular presentation, its impact extends well beyond the gala itself. Funds raised through Patrons of the Prado help participating Balboa Park institutions provide cultural and educational experiences that might otherwise remain beyond the reach of many young people in the community.
Adding special significance to this year’s celebration was the presentation of the 2026 ICON Award for Arts & Culture to Joan and Irwin Jacobs, recognizing their extraordinary philanthropy and longstanding commitment to San Diego’s arts and cultural community. Their generosity has touched institutions throughout the region and reflects the same spirit of civic involvement that has long defined the mission of Patrons of the Prado.
As evening settled over Balboa Park, the historic pavilion provided a memorable stage for a celebration that was at once glamorous and meaningful. One Haute Havana Night offered guests an opportunity to dress beautifully, celebrate generously and enjoy one of San Diego’s most treasured settings — all while contributing to the continued vitality of the institutions that make Balboa Park such an essential part of the city’s cultural identity.
For Patrons of the Prado, the evening was ultimately about far more than a beautiful gala. It was a celebration of what can happen when philanthropy, culture and community come together — ensuring that the treasures of Balboa Park remain vibrant, accessible and inspiring for generations to come.
Photography by Gilda Adler
