Foundation At Hearst Castle

The Foundation at Hearst Castle announced reservations are now open for two opportunities to enjoy an intimate, seated dinner on the sunporch of Hearst Castle’s Casa del Mar cottage, followed by a rare chance to see a Hearst-era film in his private theater lit by golden goddesses all along the red damask walls.

Each evening will begin with a scenic ride up the iconic road leading to Hearst Castle. Guests will dine on the glass-enclosed sunporch of an ornate “cottage” once occupied by the Hearst family, showcasing a sunset view of the Pacific Ocean as well as fine wines. Afterwards, they’ll stroll through fragrant moonlit gardens to the opulent theater to watch a classic film and perhaps newsreels from Hearst’s day.

Foundation At Hearst CastleAmid all the grandeur of the Hearst Castle, it’s said that W.R. himself seemed most relaxed in his ornate, 50-seat movie theater, where he would enjoy a movie or performance, surrounded by actress Marion Davies and his dachshund, his famous guests gathered around him. The theater, which leads off the billiard room, was used both for amateur theatricals and the showing of movies from Hearst’s Cosmopolitan Studios and others.

Foundation At Hearst CastleHearst Castle’s nonprofit association — which leads preservation and conservation of the historic landmark — created this unique fundraising experience for its members, although membership is open to all. They’re offering two seatings this fall: the first on Sunday, October 6th and the second on Sunday, November 3rd. With only 15 guests at each, reservations are expected to fill quickly.

Foundation At Hearst CastleThese fundraisers are only open to members of The Foundation; however annual membership starts at $42/month. Each sitting requires an additional donation of $950/guest. The nonprofit is focused on raising funds to support a full-time conservation staff, as well as expanding youth programs for underserved middle school students.

For more information or to make a reservation, visit foundationathearstcastle.com.


About 

Founded in 1985, The Foundation at Hearst Castle (formerly Friends of Hearst Castle) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit cooperating association affiliated with Hearst San Simeon State Historical Monument® and the San Luis Obispo Coast District of California State Parks.

The Foundation’s mission is to support the conservation and restoration of Hearst Castle, and to offer youth programs for underserved middle school students — to enhance the appreciation of the art and architecture of this world-class museum and monument, ultimately enriching the visitor experience and inspiring future generations of visionaries. Visit foundationathearstcastle.com.

YouTube: The Foundation at Hearst Castle

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See the World Through Hearst Castle – Jeanette Trompeter, President (video)

& Girls Club Visits Hearst Castle (video)