Catch of the Central Coast
Where Magic Meets the Sea
About the Event
Join us for CATCH 2026, the Central Coast Aquarium’s premier annual fundraising gala. This unforgettable evening will bring together community leaders, business owners, philanthropists, and ocean enthusiasts in support of the Aquarium’s mission to inspire ocean stewardship through education, conservation, and community engagement.
This year’s event theme celebrates the wonder of the impossible with an elegant evening featuring:
- Cocktail reception and hosted bar
- Curated appetizers
- Family-style gourmet dining experience
- Silent auction
- Close-up magic performances during cocktail hour
- Live auction featuring exclusive experiences and items
- A featured magic show to conclude the evening
CATCH is a 21 + event
Ticket Price:Â $250 per guest
An Evening of Wonder Benefiting the Central Coast Aquarium
Step into a world where the ocean plays tricks on your eyes and nothing is quite as it seems. Where Magic meets the sea invites guests to discover the magic of marine camouflage and the mystery of life beneath the surface.
On behalf of the Central Coast Aquarium, thank you for the many ways you help make our community stronger. Whether through supporting local organizations, investing in our economy, or creating opportunities for families, businesses like yours are essential to the vitality of the Central Coast.
We are honored to invite you to partner with us as a sponsor of our annual fundraising gala on Saturday, September 19, 2026. This elegant evening will bring together community leaders, local businesses, philanthropists, and ocean advocates for an unforgettable night of entertainment, cocktails, fine dining, and a world-class magic performance, all in support of marine science education, conservation, and accessible learning opportunities for children and families throughout our region.
Every dollar raised helps the Central Coast Aquarium continue inspiring the next generation of ocean stewards through hands-on education, school programs, scholarships, community outreach, and conservation initiatives. Your investment does more than support an event, it creates opportunities for thousands of children to connect with our coast, understand the importance of protecting our marine environment, and discover the wonders of the ocean right here in our own backyard.
Our 2026 Fundraising Goal
Funds raised through CATCH 2026 will support critical facility improvements and renovations that will enhance the visitor experience, improve operational efficiency, and ensure the Aquarium remains a vibrant community resource for years to come.
These investments will help us continue providing hands-on marine science education, conservation programs, and meaningful experiences for thousands of visitors, students, and families each year.