The House of Chamorros

House of Chamorros GUMA - Open House dates and times at Balboa Park's International Cottages
2025-08-16 11:00 - 16:00, 2025-08-10 11:00 - 16:00, 2025-08-09 11:00 - 16:00, 2025-08-03 11:00 - 16:00, 2025-08-02 11:00 - 16:00, 2025-07-27 11:00 - 16:00, 2025-07-26 11:00 - 16:00, 2025-07-20 11:00 - 16:00 (America/Denver) and 16 more dates | House of Chamorros, 2145 B Pan American Rd W, San Diego, CA, 92101, United States
The House of Pacific Relations International Cottages at Balboa Park
Discover the Rich Culture of the Chamorros at Balboa Park’s International Cottages
Nestled within the vibrant tapestry of Balboa Park’s International Cottages, the House of Chamorros GUMA beckons cultural enthusiasts, history buffs, and curious travelers alike. If you haven’t yet visited this gem, here’s why it should be on your itinerary.
A Journey Through Chamorro Heritage
Visiting the House of Chamorros is like stepping into a world where the past meets the present. The Chamorros, indigenous people of the Mariana Islands, boast a rich cultural heritage spanning thousands of years. At the GUMA, you can explore the intricate tapestry of Chamorro history.
Imagine being welcomed by the warm smiles of volunteers eager to share stories from the islands of Guam and the Northern Marianas. You’ll learn about the Chamorro language, traditional dances, and unique customs that have been preserved through generations.
Interactive Exhibits and Authentic Artifacts
The House of Chamorros GUMA offers more than just static displays. Here, you’ll find interactive exhibits that invite you to immerse yourself in the Chamorro way of life. Handle authentic artifacts, marvel at traditional handicrafts, and discover the significance behind each piece.
For those with a penchant for history, the GUMA’s collection of Chamorro relics provides a tangible link to the past. Detailed timelines and informative panels offer context, painting a vivid picture of the Chamorro’s enduring spirit and resilience.
Taste the Flavors of the Islands
A visit to the House of Chamorros wouldn’t be complete without savoring the flavors of the islands. Often, special events and gatherings feature traditional Chamorro cuisine, inviting you to indulge in delicacies like red rice, chicken kelaguen, and coconut desserts.
If you’re lucky enough to visit during one of these culinary showcases, don’t hesitate to ask for a recipe or two. Chamorro food is as much about sharing and community as it is about taste.
Join the Global Village
Balboa Park’s International Cottages represent a global village, and the House of Chamorros is a proud member of this community. Each cottage is a testament to San Diego’s diverse cultural landscape, promoting dialogue and understanding among different nationalities.
Through the House of Chamorros, visitors gain insight into how Chamorros have contributed to this multicultural mosaic, enriching San Diego with their unique traditions and perspectives.
Plan Your Visit
Whether you’re a cultural enthusiast eager to expand your knowledge, a history buff searching for new narratives, or a traveler yearning for authentic experiences, the House of Chamorros GUMA is a destination that promises to captivate and inspire. The cottage is open on weekends, and special events are often scheduled throughout the year—keep an eye on their calendar for updates.
Don’t miss this opportunity to engage with the vibrant Chamorro culture. Your visit will not only support the preservation of these treasured traditions but also leave you with a deeper appreciation for the diverse world we live in.
Balboa Park’s International Cottages are a testament to the rich diversity of cultures from around the globe. Among them, the House of Chamorros stands out as a beacon of Chamorro heritage and hospitality. Whether you’re looking to learn, taste, or simply explore, a visit to the House of Chamorros GUMA is sure to be a rewarding experience.
Plan your visit today and discover the heart of Chamorro culture in San Diego. We promise it’ll be a journey you’ll never forget!

San Diego Beamers Performances at the HPR Stage at the International Cottages in Balboa Park
2025-08-02 12:00 - 14:00, 2025-06-07 12:00 - 15:30 | Balboa Park, 1549 El Prado San Diego, San Diego, 92101, United States
San Diego Beamers Performances at the HPR Stage at the International Cottages in Balboa Park
San Diego Beamers are a group of family and friends dedicated to uplifting people’s hearts and souls through the power of music. As passionate musicians, we strive to create a warm and welcoming environment where everyone can connect with the universal language of sound.
Whether you’re looking to experience live performances or simply immerse yourself in the joy of music, our band is here to provide an enriching and unforgettable experience.
San Diego Beamers
We all remember how music influenced our lives as kids. Today, as a collection of married couples, sweethearts, siblings, and dear friends, we play that music once again: The Beatles, Elvis, Classics IV, Todd Rundgren, America, Jesse Colin Young, and many more. We discovered that this mix of music not only enriches our lives but those who hear us perform.
Our Band Manager, Janice, who also manages the quartet Island Mist, is very active with Balboa Park’s International Cottages. We’re all members of the House of Chamorros (HOC). (Jeff, who we affectionately call “Jelvis,” is the President of HOC.)
We began practicing and performing on the HPR stage when the park’s few visitors still navigated the malaise of COVID.
Through our love of performing, our love for HOC, and our persistence, we have performed on that stage for several years. We have played for the Lawn Programs for HOC, House of England, and House of China. For the new year of 2025, you can still find us joyfully performing on the first Saturday of nearly every month.
We had been known affectionately as Island Mist (and Friends) but for the new year have officially named ourselves The San Diego Beamers. We continue to perform for HPR, the International Cottages, corporate events, weddings, and private parties.
Come enjoy us for free at Balboa Park, and, of course, feel free to explore our website to get a better feel for us and our music.
Upcoming Free Performances

You can usually catch us the first Saturday of the month at the House of Pacific Relations Stage at the International Cottages in Balboa Park. We perform from 12:00 PM to 3:30 PM.
We play at the HPR Stage at the International Cottages in Balboa Park on these dates:

January 4
February 1
March 1
June 7
August 2
September 6
October 4
November 1

We perform from 12:00 PM to 3:30 PM.

GUMA Closed
2025-07-19, 2025-06-01 | CA
GUMA Closed

Saturday, March 15, 2025 | St. Patrick’s Day Parade & Cherry Blossom Festival
Sunday, March 16, 2025
Saturday, March 22, 2025
Sunday, April 20, 2025 | Easter Sunday
Sunday, June 1, 2025 | Rock and Roll Marathon
Saturday, July 19, 2025 | Pride Parade in Balboa Park
Saturday, August 17, 2025
Saturday, September 20, 2025
Saturday, November 16, 2025 | Susan Koman Marathon
Sunday, December 7, 2025 | Day After December Nights

June 18, 2025 - German Children Summer Camp at House of Chamorros
2025-06-18 | CA
June 18, 2025 – German Children Summer Camp at House of Chamorros
On Wednesday, 6/18/25, the House of Chamorros hosted 17 children from House of Germany’s Summer Camp. Janice
Bouffiou, Donna Rodriguez and Lilly McDonald facilitated the Chamorro experience.
We demonstrated as we cooked red rice, spinach with coconut milk, Finadene, and chicken Kelaguen.
Children dressed up and learned a simplified stick dance taught by Lilly and Donna.
We all had a blast! Biba Chamorro!

May 29, 2025- Veterans at La Jolla VA Hospital, Pacific Islanders Heritage Month
2025-05-29 | CA
House of Chamorros representatives, Janice Bouffiou and Loling Cepeda had an opportunity to talk about the Chamorro culture and its history at the Veterans Hospital in La Jolla, San Diego. Janice was the Guest Speaker, and Loling handled the display tables for the four hour event. Great food catered by JJ Grindz from Chula Vista. Entertainment was provided by Imåhen Taotao Tåno’. We welcome all to become a member and join us to showcase our Marianas.
May 29, 2025- Veterans at La Jolla VA Hospital,Pacific Islanders Heritage Month
May 29, 2025- Veterans at La Jolla VA Hospital,Pacific Islanders Heritage Month
May 29, 2025- Veterans at La Jolla VA Hospital,Pacific Islanders Heritage Month
