The Cottonwood Awards Luncheon is a unique event that honors those who have made positive contributions to the region’s cultural and historical resources, including Rancho Los Alamitos. Hosted by the Rancho Los Alamitos Foundation, the event helps promote and support the Rancho’s educational programs and cultural preservation efforts. It is a much-anticipated opportunity for Long Beach community and business leaders to gather to enjoy one another’s company, have a traditional ranch-style barbecue lunch, celebrate the year’s honorees, and help for the Rancho’s important work. And it all happens in setting alive with history - the Rancho’s barnyard lawn.

Cottonwood Award for Leadership
The Cottonwood Award recognizes an individual or individuals who have shown significant leadership in enhancing, promoting, and supporting the cultural communities of Southern California.

Special Recognition for Service and Commitment
Recognizes the outstanding achievements of an individual or organization that has had a significant impact on the cultural development of Rancho Los Alamitos and the City of Long Beach

Each year on a beautiful spring day in May, we celebrate the honorees and enjoy . . .

• a traditional California ranch-style barbecue buffet
• live music
• tours of the Rancho Center and the Rancho Room with its floor-to-ceiling murals
• historic gardens in full spring bloom
• docent-led tours of the historic adobe Ranch House
• and the Rancho Gift Shop will be open for souvenir shopping

Click Here for a downloadable copy of the program from the 12th Annual Cottonwood Awards Luncheon in 2024.