An Evening of Vintage Glamour, Automotive Excellence and Philanthropy
Nestled in the heart of historic Balboa Park, the San Diego Automotive Museum stands as one of Southern California’s treasured cultural institutions, celebrating the artistry, innovation, and fascinating evolution of the automobile. Home to an extraordinary collection of classic automobiles, motorcycles, and rare automotive treasures, the museum offers visitors a captivating journey through the history of transportation, from the earliest motorized vehicles to iconic examples of automotive craftsmanship. Beyond its impressive exhibitions, the museum is dedicated to inspiring future generations through educational initiatives, including its IGNITE Academy, which introduces young people to automotive technology, engineering, and career opportunities within the industry. Through its commitment to preservation, education, and innovation, the museum continues to enrich San Diego’s cultural landscape.
On September 26, 2026, the museum transported guests to an era of glamour and sophistication with its annual Party in the Park, an elegant fundraising gala celebrating the spirit of the Roaring Twenties. Against the magnificent backdrop of Balboa Park, the evening embraced the extravagance of the Jazz Age, with Art Deco-inspired surroundings, vintage automobiles, and a festive atmosphere reminiscent of the legendary social gatherings of the 1920s. Guests enjoyed cocktails, fine dining, live jazz, auctions, and dancing, with entertainment provided by the acclaimed Liquid Blue Party Band. The celebration brought together distinguished supporters, automotive enthusiasts, philanthropists, and community leaders for an unforgettable evening dedicated to preserving the museum's legacy and supporting its educational mission.
A highlight of the festivities was the recognition of Dr. Perry Mansfield, whose contributions were celebrated during the evening's program. More than a glamorous social occasion, Party in the Park served as an important fundraising initiative, generating support for the museum's exhibitions, preservation efforts, and educational programs that encourage young minds to explore the worlds of science, technology, engineering, and automotive design. The evening beautifully illustrated the intersection of history, elegance, and philanthropy, reminding guests that the automobile represents far more than transportation—it embodies imagination, ingenuity, and the enduring human desire to explore. As the festivities concluded, the San Diego Automotive Museum once again demonstrated its remarkable ability to bring the community together in celebration of automotive heritage while helping inspire the innovators of tomorrow.
Photography by Gilda Adler
