Events

East County Events

Karnival of the Arts coming to DeAnza Springs April 30 through May 3

East County News Service

March 24, 2026 (Jacumba Hot Springs) -- Performance art and music will collide and combine in concert in the high desert this spring as the Karnival of the Arts (KOTA) West returns to the DeAnza Springs Resort.

The festival, which has spent half a decade establishing a "West Coast home" in southeastern San Diego County, centers on a unique "triple-decked" stage production and will go from 4 p.m., April 30 through 4 p.m., May 3.

The design allows for simultaneous live painting, flow arts and musical performances, and this year features headliners Thundersmack (Leo P of Too Many Zooz and Michael Wilbur of Moon Hooch) and electronic multi-instrumentalist Vincent Antone.

"Our event highlights art like no other," says KOTA co-founder and producer Miguel Munoz. "Starting with triple decked stages for simultaneous live painting and dance/flow performances right along side regional favorite bands and international headliners."


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The Circle Players present 'The Conundrum on the Crackerjack Cruise' April 17, 18 and 19

East County News Service
 
March 24, 2026 (El Cajon) -- The First Presbyterian Church of El Cajon’s theater outreach program, The Circle Players, will navigate Richardson Hall into the high seas next month for an interactive mystery dinner theater production, “The Conundrum on the Crackerjack Cruise.”
 
Written by Nancy Bond, the play invites audience members to board the fictional cruise ship Grand Jubilation as it sets sail for the Bahamas.
 
The evening blends traditional performance with a "Game Night" experience. Guests are encouraged to participate as fellow passengers, competing in teams and cheering for victory as the sun and fun shift into a web of mystery and intrigue.

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Mt. Miguel High School Foundation hosts "Spring Craft Fair" April 11 to support local students

East County News Service
 
March 23, 2026 (Spring Valley) -- The Mt. Miguel High School Foundation is inviting the community to its upcoming "Spring Craft Fair" on Saturday, April 11.
 
The event will take place from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Mount Miguel High School at 8585 Blossom Lane in Spring Valley.
 
Whether you are looking for a special treat for yourself or a thoughtful gift for a loved one, the fair offers a chance to shop small while directly benefiting local education, says JoAnne Burke from the Mt. Miguel High School Foundation.
 
"It will be great place to get unique, one-of-a-kind items," Burke said. "Get a head start on Mother’s Day shopping while browsing a wonderful variety of handcrafted treasures from talented local vendors. You’re sure to find thoughtful gifts for birthdays, anniversaries, and so much more -- and maybe even a little something just for you, too! Grab a friend and come shop local."
 
For those interested in participating as a crafter or for more general information, call Burke at (619) 469-7350 or email MtMiguelAlumni@gmail.com .
 

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Walden Family Services marks 50 years with golf tournament and 'No Place Like Home' gala

East County News Service
 
March 22, 2026 (San Diego) -- Nonprofit Walden Family Services, which has supported more than 100,000 foster children and families since its founding in 1976, will host two public fundraisers as part of celebrating its 50 years in service.
 
The golden anniversary comes as the organization pivots toward an expansion of its housing and prevention programs for "Transitional Age Youth" --- young adults ages 18 to 26 who are aging out of the foster care system.
 
The celebration begins this week with the Walden Fairways Scramble Golf Tournament on Thursday, March 26. Held at the Singing Hills Golf Course at Sycuan, the charity tournament is designed to raise immediate funds for Walden’s housing initiatives.
 

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Planning under way for 80th annual Crest 4th of July Parade and daylong festival

Vendors, food trucks and parade participants wanted

By Paul Levikow

March 21, 2026 (Crest) – The Crest Community Association is planning the 80th Annual Crest 4th of July Parade and is looking for parade participants and vendors for the festival. The event will also honor the 250th birthday of the United States.


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Destination East County: April festivities and Easter events

By Miriam Raftery

March 20, 2026 (San Diego’s East County) – Upcoming events in our inland region include egg hunts, a bunny bash, and a train ride with the Easter Bunny.  Plus you can enjoy a Spring Garden Festival and Butterfly Release at the Water Conservation Garden,a pow-wow at SDSU, Lakeside’s Western Days Parade and Rodeo, a Lilac Festival in Santa Ysabel, El Cajon’s Arbor Day Celebration, Adams Avenue Unplugged, Sweet Pea Days at Summers Past Farms, wolf center tours in Julian, a piano concert at Cuyamaca College, a health fair at Grossmont Center, county libraries’ Spring Break reading series, and a performance by Journey’s former lead singer in Poway.

Scroll down for these fun and festive happenings.


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Julian Junior Theater makes debut with ‘Annie Jr.' April 24-26

East County News Service

March 19, 2026 (Julian) -- In another month, the sun will be coming out for youths in the San Diego County's backcountry mountains.

In April, the newly formed Julian Junior Theater will take to the stage for its inaugural production, bringing the beloved classic Annie (but in the Annie Jr. version) to the local community. Tickets are $10, and there will only be four performances.

As a California nonprofit, Julian Junior Theater was established with a clear mission: to foster self-confidence, self-expression and a lifelong love for the performing arts.

By providing enriching education and dynamic performance opportunities, JJT is a vital creative hub for young residents in the rural Julian region.


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Final chord at Hooley's with Evans Academy Extravaganza March 20

Photo courtesy Facebook
 
By Karen Pearlman
 
March 19, 2026 (La Mesa) -- For nearly two decades, the dark wood and stone hearth of Hooley’s Public House in Grossmont Center have served as more than just a backdrop for a well-poured Guinness. It has been a community living room, a dining spot with a welcoming vibe, a sanctuary for local history buffs and a rockin' stage for East County’s music scene.
 
That era comes to a close when Hooley's in La Mesa closes its doors on Sunday, March 29.
 
But before the doors lock for the final time, the pub will host one last massive celebration of local talent: the Evans Academy Extravaganza.

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‘Americans and the Holocaust’ exhibition coming to Grossmont College

East County News Service
 
March 19, 2026 (El Cajon) -- The Grossmont College Library was selected as one of only 50 libraries across the United States to host the traveling exhibition “Americans and the Holocaust.”
 
Americans and the Holocaust is a collaborative effort between the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum and the American Library Association. Locals will be able to visit the exhibition from April 14 through May 21, 2026 at Grossmont College, 8800 Grossmont College Drive in El Cajon.
 
This is the exhibition's second national tour, and follows a successful run at 50 libraries between 2021-23. Because of its popularity, the USHMM and ALA expanded the initiative to an additional 50 sites for a 2024-26 cycle, reaching communities from Hawaii and Alaska to Texas and New Hampshire.

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La Mesa Conversations to host panel on immigration enforcement and local response

East County News Service
 
March 18, 2026 (La Mesa) -- As the national conversation surrounding immigration enforcement continues to intensify, local community leaders are working to provide clarity.
 
On Monday, March 23, the group La Mesa Conversations will host a public panel titled “Community Responses to Immigration Enforcement: Standing with Our Neighbors.”
 
The event, which is free and open to the public, will provide an opportunity for people to share information about the complex federal issue and examine its impact on families, schools, businesses and houses of worship. The discussion is featuring a diverse cross-section of local leadership, reflecting how immigration enforcement touches various facets of civic life.
 
The panel includes:
 
Mariah Jameson, community representative for San Diego County Supervisor Monica Montgomery Steppe; Christian DeMent: pastor at La Mesa First United Methodist Church; Erin Tsurumoto Grassi: Associate Director of Alliance San Diego; Krystle Johnson, a special education teacher and community activist; and Brianna Coston, trustee for the La Mesa–Spring Valley School Board.

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Alejandro Escovedo to headline Adams Avenue Unplugged Saturday, April 25

Source:  Adams Avenue Business

March 16, 2026 (San Diego) - Adams Avenue Unplugged will take place on Saturday, April 25th, 12 noon to 12 midnight, along Adams Avenue, from University Heights through Normal Heights to Kensington. This exceptional music walkabout is free and open to the public with the exception of the headliner artist. Alejandro Escovedo ($40 ticket).

Unplugged 2026 will feature 90 performances at 26 different venues including restaurants, bars, coffee houses, and the main stage located at the historic Normal Heights United Church. Adams Avenue businesses hope to treat musical aficionados and foodies to the rich neighborhood culture.


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Santee’s Bunny Trail March 28 includes dragon dancers and egg-citing activities

By Miriam Raftery
 
March 17, 2026 (Santee) -- Get ready for fire-breathing fun at Santee's Bunny Trail, including dragon dancers performing from  White Dragon Martial Arts School.
 
This year, the event takes place from 10 a.m. until 1 p.m., at Town Center Community Park East, 550 Park Center Drive in Santee.
 
This year’s event features a bunny trail experience instead of a traditional egg hunt.
 
Families stroll booth-to-booth collecting eggs at their own pace, then exchange collected eggs for a festive goodie bag. Visit booths in any order and stop by as many as you’d like. Be sure to bring baskets!
 

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Inaugural Wellness 5K to fund expansion for Native Boys & Girls Club

East County News Service
 
March 16, 2026 (East County) -- The Boys & Girls Club of Kumeyaay Nation Wellness will host its inaugural Wellness 5K Walk & Run later this month at Naval Training Center Park.
 
A fundraising effort to expand services for Native youth across San Diego County, the event begins at 8 a.m., Sunday, March 29, at the old NTC-headquartered park at 2455 Cushing Road. Organizers say the event will help fund a new safe space and enhanced programming for the Boys & Girls Club of Kumeyaay Nation Wellness.
 
Currently based on the La Posta Band of Mission Indians Reservation in Boulevard, the BGCKNW holds the distinction of being the first Native Services Boys & Girls Club established in California.

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Sanctified in Swing: A benefit for Lemon Grove Arts Collective on March 28

East County News Service

March 16, 2026 (East County) -- An evening of music, storytelling and community will be the draw in La Mesa later this month.

The Ira Aldridge Repertory Players will be presenting “Sanctified in Swing” starting at 7 p.m., Saturday, March 28 at Spacebar Café & Wine Bistro, 7454 University Ave., in La Mesa. Doors open at 6 p.m., organizers say.

The event will include poems written by Calvin Manson as well as jazz, blues and R&B vocal music by Leslie Green and Roosevelt Carter -- all Lemon Grove residents.

Green will light up the stage with a powerful voice flowing through jazz, blues, and R&B, rich with soul, warmth, and the power to lift every heart. She will be joined by Carter, known for his velvet smooth, rich and warm voice.


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Donate to help pets in need at Alpine Pet Food and Supply Drive April 4

East County News Service

March 14, 2026 (Alpine) – Dog and cat food, treats, grooming supplies, new pet toys, feeding bowls, beds, blankets, crates/carriers, leashes, collars, litter boxes and litter are among the items sought to help pets in need. You can drop off items on April 4 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Viejas Pit Stop, 5454 Willows Road in Alpine.


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German Cabaret returns to El Cajon with 'No Train to Anywhere'

East County News Service
 
March 12, 2026 (El Cajon) -- The German Theater Group San Diego has announced its 2026 production, a German-language cabaret titled "Es fährt kein Zug nach irgendwo" (There is no train to anywhere), scheduled for a two-show run this April.
 
The performances will take place at the German American Societies of San Diego headquarters 1017 S. Mollison Ave. in El Cajon at 7:30 p.m. Saturday, April 25, at 7:30 p.m. and 2 p.m. Sunday, April 26. Organizers noted that tickets for the annual event typically sell out in advance.
 
The production follows the tradition of German Kabarett -- a distinct theatrical form that blends social satire, sketches, music and poetry. Unlike American-style stand-up, German cabaret often utilizes a full ensemble to offer humorous and critical reflections on contemporary life and politics.
 
The San Diego ensemble, operating under the artistic direction of founder Astrid Ronke, has grown from 13 members at its 2016 inception to today's more than 30 actors, vocalists and volunteers.

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Spring Into El Cajon on April 18 celebrates Arbor Day and arrival of spring

East County New Service

Image by Satheesh Sankaran from Pixabay

March 6, 2026 (El Cajon) - The City of El Cajon invites community members and families to attend Spring Into El Cajon, a free community celebration of Arbor Day and the arrival of spring on Saturday, April 18 from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at Renette Park (935 Emerald Ave., El Cajon). This day of family-friendly activities focuses on sustainability, nature, and community connection.


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SDSU hosts pow wow April 11

East County News Service

March 6, 2026 (San Diego) -- SDSU will host its 54th annual pow wow on Saturday, April 11 starting at 11 a.m.

The San Diego State University Pow Wow is a cultural and social event held annually to bring together the Native American community at SDSU. SDSU has the reputation of having one of the longest running pow wows ran by a university in California.

This event is open to the public and is a partnership between the Native Resource Center, the SDSU American Indian Studies Department, the Native American Student Alliance and the American Indian Alumni Chapter of SDSU.


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Nature Day on Mt. Helix March 14: Butterflies, plants galore and more

East County News Service

March 6, 2026 (Mt. Helix) – You’re invited to celebrate Nature Day at the Mt. Helix Park, where Earth Day is every day. The historic nature preserve atop Mt. Helix will come alive with live animals, butterfly releases, a native plant sale, activities, crafts, ecosystem tours, and booths from over 30 nonprofit nature groups  


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East County Chamber honors leaders, organizations at 114th annual soiree

Sycuan Casino Resort hosted the San Diego Regional East County Chamber of Commerce's 114th annual East County Honors Awards Gala over the weekend.

Photos and story by Karen Pearlman

March 2, 2026 (El Cajon) -- More than 400 business and nonprofit leaders, community advocates and public officials gathered at Sycuan Casino Resort last Saturday for the 114th Annual East County Honors Awards Gala.
 
Hosted by the San Diego Regional East County Chamber of Commerce, the event continues to be more than a formal dinner, it also acts as a fundraiser for the nonprofit that represent the diverse business community of the East County region, including El Cajon, Lemon Grove, Rancho San Diego, Alpine, Spring Valley and Jamul.
 
The organization also maintains strong partnerships with other chambers in Santee, La Mesa, Lakeside, Julian, Borrego Springs, Ramona and Poway.
 

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Borrego Art Institute hosting 20th anniversary Plein Air Invitational, Spring fundraiser

East County News Service

March 1, 2026 (Borrego Springs) -- The Borrego Art Institute is marking the 20th anniversary of its Annual Plein Air Invitational this month.

Featuring 16 nationally recognized artists and a series of public competitions, the month-long programming will culminate in the "Art for Everyone" spring fundraiser and auction on April 4.


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Lemon Grove history comes alive with Dona Clabby on March 5

East County News Service

March 1, 2026 (Lemon Grove) -- The Lemon Grove Historical Society will peel back a few layers of local history this month through the eyes of one of its most dedicated residents.

At 7 p.m., Thursday, March 5, the LGHS's "History Alive" lecture series will bring Dona Clabby to the H. Lee House Cultural Center in Treganza Heritage Park to share her thoughts and memories as part of program called “The Way We Were.”

Dona, 91, and her late husband, Tom Clabby, who died at age 84 in 2023, were part and parcel of the evolution of Lemon Grove from a community of citrus groves to a diverse, incorporated city.

Lemon Grove has long prided itself as the "Best Climate on Earth," but its history includes much more than the weather, and Dona Clabby has lived in the city for more than 65 years, with a plethora of memories she will touch on at the lectre.

Having raised their three children in the community, Dona and Tom Clabby are and were representative of the generation that bridged the gap between the town’s rural roots and its modern civic identity.


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San Diego Regional East County Chamber of Commerce hosts 114th annual East County Honors Awards gala

East County News Service

February 27, 2026 (El Cajon) -- On Saturday, February 28, the San Diego Regional East County Chamber of Commerce will celebrate the 114th anniversary of its annual East County Honors event at Sycuan Casino Resort at 5 p.m. Since 1912, the Chamber has held the tradition of swearing in the new Chamber Board of Directors and recognizing outstanding businesses, organizations, and community leaders of East County. 


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Poway Symphony concert March 22 features Mendelssohn Classics

East County News Service
 
Feb. 26, 2026 (Poway) -- The Poway Symphony Orchestra  will perform a "Mendelssohn Classics" concert that starts at 4 p.m., Sunday, March 22, at the Poway Center for the Performing Arts.
 
Poway Symphony Orchestra, a 65-member ensemble, will perform under the baton of Conductor and Music Director John LoPiccolo.
 
Ensemble leadership said that the afternoon will showcase two of Felix Mendelssohn’s most enduring masterworks, headlined by internationally acclaimed guest violinist YuEun Gemma Kim.

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Hot times! Lemon Grove Lions & Lemon Grove Forward Club host Chili Cookoff fundraiser March 28 for service projects

Source: Lemon Grove Lions

 

February 24, 2026 (Lemon Grove) -- Lemon Grove Lions Club and Lemon Grove Forward Club, organizations devoted to volunteering and supporting the local community, will be hosting a Chili Cookoff on March 28 from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at VFW Post 2082, 2885 Lemon Grove Ave, Lemon Grove, 91945. Admission to the event is $30 and proceeds will go toward the Lions Club’s local service projects. 


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Tacos, taxes and targeted relief -- Sen. Akilah Weber Pierson hosting resource fair

East County News Service
 
Feb. 20, 2026 (San Diego County) — As the April income tax filing deadline looms, State Sen. Akilah Weber Pierson (D-SD) will serve up a unique blend of financial relief and local flavor next month.
 
Weber Pierson's office on Saturday, March 14, is hosting  "Tacos & Taxes" at the Jackie Robinson YMCA. The event offers qualifying San Diego County residents a chance to secure professional tax assistance -- along with some free tacos.

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Galloping into the Year of the Fire Horse in East County

East County News Service
 
Feb. 18, 2026 (San Diego County) — The thunder of hooves isn’t just coming from local farms and ranches this week; it’s the sound of the Year of the Fire Horse.
 
Lunar New Year festivities -- some of which will last all year long -- are trotting through the region.
 
The 2026 celebrations carry a rare significance. This is the first "Fire Horse" element since 1966. Fire Horse years traditionally symbolize a period of high energy, bold transformation and spirited movement.

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San Diego State, San Diego Humane Society team up to support furry friends

East County News Service
 
Feb. 15, 2026 (San Diego) — While many people chomped on chocolates and bequeathed bouquets of red roses on Valentine's Day, a different kind of love was shared at the San Diego Humane Society.
 
On Saturday, more than two dozen student-athletes from San Diego State University channeled their competitive edge and energy into a morning of service for animals waiting for their "forever" valentines.

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Hear our interview with Chris Pierce, Spring Valley Community Alliance President, on Feb. 19 Spring Valley Changemakers Summit and more community happenings

By Miriam Raftery

February 14, 2026 (Spring Valley) – “The main goal is to connect people and build inspiration. We have a lot of talented people here n Spring Valley from many walks of life, with many different talents, and we just want to bring them together,” says Chris Pierce, President of the Spring Valley Community Alliance said of the first-ever Spring Valley Changemakers Summit slated for Thursday, February 19 at the STEAM Academy (1001 Leland Street, Spring Valley) starting at 5:30 p.m.

The event will feature numerous community organizations, networking opportunities, appetizers and an improv comedy show. In an interview with ECM editor Miriam Raftery aired on KNSJ radio, Pierce shared details about the summit, new initiatives in Spring Valley, and more.  Hear full interview, or scroll down for highlights.

Audio: 

Download: Audio icon NewsmakerChrisPierceSVCommunityAlliance.mp3

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Destination East County: Springtime festivals and events

By Karen Pearlman

Feb. 13, 2026 (San Diego’s East County) -- As the chill of winter fades, seasonal events are blossoming across San Diego’s inland region.

Upcoming festivities in March and April include flower and garden festivals, a Western Days parade and rodeo, Tomatomania, March Madness NCAA basketball, Easter egg hunts, a bunny train, St. Patrick’s Day celebrations, live music concerts, theatrical productions, a health fair and much more.

Scroll down for details on these events and more.


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