July 11, 2014 (Rancho Bernardo)—Wine aficionados can sip and savor vintages from over 20 local wineries at the San Diego County Vintners Association Wine Festival, including many East County vintners. The event takes place Saturday, July 12 from 1-6 p.m. at the Bernardo Winery in Rancho Bernardo.

June 25, 2014 (Santee) – The Santee Firefighters Fishing Derby is set for Saturday, July 12 at Santee Lakes from 6 a.m. to 11 a.m.

Derby participants will receive a free day permit, worms, raffle ticket, hot dog lunch and free door prizes while they last.

July 7, 2014 (San Diego) – Families are invited to beat the heat on Wednesday evenings this summer  by enjoying dive-in movies (float in the pool with inner tubes provided) and $5 ice skating.

It’s all part of Hot  Kroc Nights at the Salvation Army Kroc Center at 6845 University Avenue, just one block west of La Mesa.  Scroll down for a full schedule and details.

Plus previews of coming attractions

by Ariele Johannson

July 2, 2014 (San Diego’s East County)--This week’s Destination East County has a run-down on 4th of July festivities throughout our inland region. No need to fight traffic to watch fireworks at the beach when you can choose from an array of venues right here in East County—where our cities and historic small towns show their patriotic spirit with parades, picnics, festivals and fireworks.  You’ll hear about KNSJ radio’s anniversary celebration at Mission Trails.

Plus we’ll have a preview of some unique events coming up next week—from a firefighters’ fishing derby to outdoor musical theater, twilight walks, a star party, and a super full moon jazz concert amid fragrant fields of lavender!

June 29, 2014 (Julian) – In the historic gold rush town of Julian, the 4^th of July starts with a parade and American Legion barbecue.  Guests are invited to finish up a day in the mountains at Jeremy’s on the Hill, where a Backcountry wine pairing dinner will be held featuring organic, local produce from Sage Mountain Farms and wines from Shadow Mountain Vineyards and Sierra Roble Winery and Vineyard, both in Warner Springs. The event begins at 5:30 p.m. and tickets are $44 per person, plus tax and gratuity.

June 26, 2014 (Mission Trails)—You’re invited to join Mission Trails Regional Park guides this summer for free Saturday evening guided walks in the park to learn about changes that occur as the sun goes down.  These walks last approximately an hour and a half and start from the parking lot across from Kumeyaay Campground on July 19 at 7:15 p.m.,  August 16 at 7:30 p.m. and Sept. 20 at 6 p.m.

The County invites kids and parents to a Bicycle Rodeo at the Pine Valley Park on Old Highway 80 in Pine Valley this Saturday, June 28^th from 2:00 to 5:00 p.m.   

Kids can enjoy riding a short course to learn how to properly operate a bicycle. Children and parents will learn bicycle safety and how to properly fit a bicycle helmet. Kids are encouraged to bring bicycles, bike helmets and other safety gear.

June 23, 2014 (Santee)--The City of Santee will hosts its annual Santee Salutes event on July 4^th from 3:30 to 10 p.m.  at Town Center community Park East, located at 550 Park Center Drive.

June 20, 2014 (San Diego)--Rady Children’s Hospital is staging a “Safe Kids Day” program on Saturday, June 21, at the Mission Trails Regional Park Visitor Center from 9:30 to 2:00.  The emphasis is to keep children safe while exploring and enjoying the outdoors.  All activities will take place at the Mission Trails Regional Park Visitor Center. 

June 17, 2014 (Lemon Grove) – Soon, Lemon Grove’s Main Street will be transformed in a concept that will be unveiled n the new future.  The public is invited to a planning party on June 28 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the Lemon Grove Community Center, 3146 School Lane.

June 19, 2014 (La Mesa)—La Mesa Village Merchants Association invites you to step back in time each Thursday night from 5 p.m. starting June 19 through August 28. The Car Show happens along La Mesa Blvd between Acacia and Fourth Streets, in the heart of La Mesa Village. 

Six trophies are awarded each night: four to cars, one to a motorcycle, and the La Mesa Police Department’s Police Officer’s Choice Award. Cruising is encouraged!

By Ariele Johannson

This weekend is the official beginning of summer, and Destination East County has a lineup of great outdoor activities, such as summer concerts, movies, and hikes, as well as events with trains, raptors, and fairies!

June 8, 2014 (Campo) – The Mountain Empire-Campo Kiwanis invite you to put on your dancing shoes and come to the annual barn Dance at Star Ranch in Campo.  The event on June 14 features the Honky Tonk Kings country dance band from 8 p.m. to 1 p.m.. In addition, a BBQ dinner will be served from 7-10 p.m.

June 8, 2014 (Santee)--The city of Santee’s Summer Concert Series resumes June 19 with an expanded lineup featuring performances by 11 well-established regional bands.The free concerts are held Thursdays at 6:30 p.m. — except for the week of the July 4 holiday—at Town Center Community Park East, 550 Park Center Drive.

By Miriam Raftery

June 5, 2014 (El Cajon)--Six-time NASACAR Champion Jimmie Johnson will be returning to his hometown of El Cajon for a special tribute on Tuesday, June 17. 

Weather permitting, the El Cajon City Council will hold a special celebration to recognize the hometown hero for his racing accomplishments—and also his philanthropic contributions to the community.  The City is encouraging everyone to attend and show support for one of the racing world’s biggest stars.