'Carnaval Magico': This South Bay Coastal Town Is Raising Funds For Mexican Sister City

HERMOSA BEACH, CA — A Hermosa Beach nonprofit is hosting its annual gala fundraiser to help continue raising the quality of life for residents in its sister city of Loreto, Baja California, Mexico.

"Carnaval Magico" will take place from 4 to 8 p.m. at the St. Cross Episcopal Church on July 26, featuring drinks, games, entertainment and auctions, according to the Hermosa Beach Sister City Association. There will be sweet treats from Creamy Boys Ice Cream and Catering by Maderos Cocina Mexicana.

Loreto is a "serene, picturesque fishing village" located in the southern part of the Baja California Peninsula, according to the Hermosa Beach Sister City Association. It's been a sister city to Hermosa Beach since 1967.

The Sister Cities program was created in 1956 by President Dwight Eisenhower as part of a "People-to-People" program aimed at establishing diplomatic ties and promoting peace between the U.S. and international communities.

By the mid-1960s, several cities near Hermosa Beach had established ties with other cities. But Hermosa Beach had none, according to the Hermosa Beach Sister City Association.

Several Mexican cities were considered, including Veracruz, Manzanillo, Tuxpan and Rosarito. Ultimately, Hermosa Beach officials at the time established ties with Loreto.

"Over the years, the HBSCA has forged a very close bond with Loreto and its citizens," organizers said in a statement promoting the gala. "With assistance and guidance from the HBSCA, Loreto has vastly improved the quality of life for its residents and created many opportunities for its citizens."

Tickets to the annual fundraiser can be purchased here.

St. Cross Episcopal Church is located at 1818 Monterey Blvd. in Hermosa Beach.