East County Magazine

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…

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…

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…

East County Chamber honors leaders, organizations at 114th annual soiree
Printer-friendly versionSycuan 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

San Diego Regional East County Chamber of Commerce hosts 114th annual East County Honors Awards gala
Printer-friendly versionEast 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

Poway Symphony concert March 22 features Mendelssohn Classics
Printer-friendly versionEast 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

The Bloodstones of Power: The Norwesis Chronicles, Book 3 by Alain Lescart
Reviewed by Pennell Paugh February 25, 2026 (San Diego) — Alain Lescart, a resident of San Diego, entered his latest fairy story in the San…

The Bloodstones of Power: The Norwesis Chronicles, Book 3 by Alain Lescart
Reviewed by Pennell Paugh February 25, 2026 (San Diego) — Alain Lescart, a resident of San Diego, entered his latest fairy story in the San…

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…

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…

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)…

Tacos, taxes and targeted relief — Sen. Akilah Weber Pierson hosting resource fair
Printer-friendly versionEast 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

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;…

Galloping into the Year of the Fire Horse in East County
Printer-friendly versionEast 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

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,…

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…

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…

Treasure hunters wanted at Parkway Collectibles event
Printer-friendly versionEast County News Service Feb. 12, 2026 (El Cajon) — Whether you are hunting for a rare holographic Pokémon Charizard or looking to add the latest vaulted Funko Pop to your shelf, Parkway Plaza is the place to be later this month. Parkway Collectibles, the monthly pop-up event hosted by The Coin Toss, is set to return from 11 a.m. to 7

Treasure hunters wanted at Parkway Collectibles event
East County News Service Feb. 12, 2026 (El Cajon) — Whether you are hunting for a rare holographic Pokémon Charizard or looking to add the…

La Mesa Lions, Lemon Grove Lions partner for fundraising dinner
East County News Service Feb. 11, 2026 (Lemon Grove) — The sweet aroma of garlic and simmered marinara sauce will fill the air in Lemon…
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Support community news in the public interest! As nonprofit news, we rely on donations from the public to fund our reporting — not special interests. Please donate to sustain East County Magazine’s local reporting and/or wildfire alerts at https://www.eastcountymedia.org/donate to help us keep people safe and informed across our region.

DESTINATION EAST COUNTY: 2024 HOLIDAY HAPPENINGS
Printer-friendly version By Miriam Raftery November 29, 2024 (San Diego’s East County) – There’s a dazzling array of holiday events coming up across our inland region–including synchronized light shows at Camp Christmas in Pine Valley, North Pole Limited Train Rides at the Campo depot, Lakeside’s Spirit of Christmas, La Mesa’s Holiday in the Village, a holiday bonfire in Lemon Grove,

HOLIDAY ART WALK NOV. 30 IN EL CAJON, FOLLOWED BY AN ARTIST’S RECEPTION
Printer-friendly version East County News Service November 27, 2024 (El Cajon) – East County Arts Association invites you to enjoy strolling down Main street in downtown El Cajon for a holiday art walk with 28 participating vendors offering everything from handmade jewelry to vibrant paintings, pottery and more. The event takes place Saturday, November 30 from 2 p.m.to 8

CHRISTMAS AT THE GERMAN-AMERICAN SOCIETIES IN EL CAJON DEC. 7-8
Printer-friendly versionBy Miriam Raftery November 27, 2024 (El Cajon) – The German-American Societies of San Diego and Dia Rasselbande Preschool invite you to a traditional Christmas Market. This festive event features shopping for handmade gifts, delicious German dishes, holiday beer and Glühwein, choral performances, kids’ activities, and photos with Santa. This festive event will be held at the German American

CHARIOT CANYON: A RENT BEACHAM MYSTERY
Printer-friendly version Reviewed by Pennell Paugh November 25, 2024 (San Diego) — Award-winning San Diego author Larry M. Edwards involves investigative journalist Rent Beacham in another mystery. In Chariot Canyon, Rent looks into reports of welfare fraud. His investigation not only becomes more dangerous, by a twist of fate, he becomes personally connected to people involved. When horseback riders discover

CREST HOSTS CHRISTMAS CRAFT FAIRE WITH SANTA ARRIVING BY FIRE TRUCK
Printer-friendly version East County News Service November 24, 2024 (Crest, CA) – The reindeer are taking a day off on Sunday, December 8, when Santa will arrive at the Crest Christmas Craft Faire aboard a fire truck! Santa arrives at 4 p.m. and will visit with children until 6 p.m. The Craft Faire begins at 10 a.m. and runs through

SNOW DAY AT LINDO LAKES DECEMBER 6
Printer-friendly version By Miriam Raftery November 20, 2024 (Lakeside) — Even sunny San Diego can get snow with the assistance of modern technology. You’re invited to Snow Day at Lindo Lake on December 6 from 2 to 5 p.m., as the County turns this popular park into a family-friendly winter wonderland with fresh snow for sledding and snow play.

LAKESIDE ARTIST WINS BEST OF THEME AWARD
Printer-friendly versionSource: San Diego Watercolor Society Photo: “Got My Eye On You” by Dottie Thompson. Watercolor, 18 x 24”. Image courtesy of San Diego Watercolor Society November 19, 2024 (Lakeside) – Dottie Thompson, an artist and resident of Lakeside, California, has won the Best of Theme award in the highly competitive November 2024 San Diego Watercolor Society (SDWS) Member’s gallery exhibition “Evoking

LEMON GROVE TOASTS TO HOLIDAYS WITH BONFIRE DECEMBER 6
Printer-friendly versionEast County News Service November 13, 2024 (Lemon Grove) – Lemon Grove invites you to the city’s annual community bonfire on Friday, December 6 from 4:30 to 8:30 p.m. at Treganza Heritage Park, 3200 Main St. in Lemon Grove. Enjoy visits with Santa, music with a live band, a game truck, crafts, inflatables, free cookies, hot chocolate and popcorn,

PRISON DOCUMENTARY COULD SWEEP SAN DIEGO FESTIVAL CIRCUIT
Printer-friendly versionBy Michael Howard Photo: Dr. Paul and Lori Sutton at the San Diego Film Awards. Photo courtesy of Paul Sutton November 11, 2024 (San Diego) – A retired San Diego State University professor is poised to sweep the San Diego film festival scene this month when his short documentary From Pen to Paper about imprisoned men who take

WATER CONSERVATION GARDEN CELEBRATES 25TH ANNIVERSARY WITH FREE CELEBRATION NOV. 9
Printer-friendly version By Miriam Raftery November 7, 2024 (Rancho San Diego, CA) – The Water Conservation Garden is hosting a free 25th anniversary celebration this Saturday, November 9, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Celebrating 25 years of educating the public about water conservation, this event features animal encounters, garden talks, food, live music, activities and fun for all

FIND THE PERFECT GIFT AT MISSION TRAILS HOLIDAY MARKETPLACE NOV. 9
Printer-friendly versionSource: Mission Trails Regional Park Foundation November 5, 2024 (San Diego) – It’s that time of year again: time to find the perfect gift for that special someone. You can find it at the Holiday Marketplace at Mission Trails on Saturday, November 9 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. The free event will support the independent vendors and all

FIND THE PERFECT GIFT AT MISSION TRAILS HOLIDAY MARKETPLACE NOV. 9
Printer-friendly versionSource: Mission Trails Regional Park Foundation November 5, 2024 (San Diego) – It’s that time of year again: time to find the perfect gift for that special someone. You can find it at the Holiday Marketplace at Mission Trails on Saturday, November 9 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. The free event will support the independent vendors and all

SAN DIEGO REGIONAL EAST COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE 113TH ANNUAL EAST COUNTY HONORS AWARDS GALA NOW ACCEPTING NOMINATIONS
Printer-friendly versionSource: East County Chamber of Commerce November 1, 2024 (El Cajon) – The San Diego Regional East County Chamber of Commerce is now accepting nominations for the 2024 East County Honors. On Saturday, February 22nd, 2025, The East County Chamber will celebrate the 113th anniversary of its annual East County Honors event at Sycuan Casino Resort at 5 p.m. For

SAN DIEGO REGIONAL EAST COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE 113TH ANNUAL EAST COUNTY HONORS AWARDS GALA NOW ACCEPTING NOMINATIONS
Printer-friendly versionSource: East County Chamber of Commerce November 1, 2024 (El Cajon) – The San Diego Regional East County Chamber of Commerce is now accepting nominations for the 2024 East County Honors. On Saturday, February 22nd, 2025, The East County Chamber will celebrate the 113th anniversary of its annual East County Honors event at Sycuan Casino Resort at 5 p.m. For

BORREGO SPRINGS FILM INSTITUTE PRESENTS CASABLANCA AND MORE FREE SCREENINGS
Printer-friendly version East County News Service October 27, 2024 (Borrego Springs) – The Borrego Springs Film Institute is offering a series of free film showings at the Borrego Springs Performing Arts Center. The next showing is the classic film “Casablanca” on November 6 at 7 p.m. The1942 film, starring Humphrey Bogart and Lauren Bacall, features a cynical expatriate American cafe

BORREGO SPRINGS FILM INSTITUTE PRESENTS CASABLANCA AND MORE FREE SCREENINGS
Printer-friendly version East County News Service October 27, 2024 (Borrego Springs) – The Borrego Springs Film Institute is offering a series of free film showings at the Borrego Springs Performing Arts Center. The next showing is the classic film “Casablanca” on November 6 at 7 p.m. The1942 film, starring Humphrey Bogart and Lauren Bacall, features a cynical expatriate American cafe

DESTINATION EAST COUNTY: NOTABLE NOVEMBER EVENTS
Printer-friendly version By Miriam Raftery October 27, 2024 (Ramona) – Notable November events are coming up –including the Ramona Art and Wine Fest, Valor Awards for Veterans, La Mesa’s Holiday in the Village, East County Magazine’s Roaring ‘20s party at La Mesa Wine Works, the Romeros Spanish guitar concert, comedy night at Sycuan, Santee’s tree lighting and sledding,

DESTINATION EAST COUNTY: NOTABLE NOVEMBER EVENTS
Printer-friendly version By Miriam Raftery October 27, 2024 (Ramona) – Notable November events are coming up –including the Ramona Art and Wine Fest, Valor Awards for Veterans, La Mesa’s Holiday in the Village, East County Magazine’s Roaring ‘20s party at La Mesa Wine Works, the Romeros Spanish guitar concert, comedy night at Sycuan, Santee’s tree lighting and sledding,

EAST COUNTY CHAMBER HAS AN ARRAY OF EVENTS COMING UP
Printer-friendly versionEast County News Service October 27,2024 (San Diego’s East County) –The East County Regional Chamber of Commerce has several events coming up including First Friday breakfasts, business after hours mixers, coffee connect, a veterans’ awards luncheon, and holiday mixers. Go to https://business.eastcountychamber.org/events/calendarcatgid/Chamber-Events-6 to see all upcoming events and to register. Below are links for details on the individual events.

EAST COUNTY CHAMBER HAS AN ARRAY OF EVENTS COMING UP
Printer-friendly versionEast County News Service October 27,2024 (San Diego’s East County) –The East County Regional Chamber of Commerce has several events coming up including First Friday breakfasts, business after hours mixers, coffee connect, a veterans’ awards luncheon, and holiday mixers. Go to https://business.eastcountychamber.org/events/calendarcatgid/Chamber-Events-6 to see all upcoming events and to register. Below are links for details on the individual events.
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Support community news in the public interest! As nonprofit news, we rely on donations from the public to fund our reporting — not special interests. Please donate to sustain East County Magazine’s local reporting and/or wildfire alerts at https://www.eastcountymedia.org/donate to help us keep people safe and informed across our region.
East County Magazine

Tree Lighting Ceremony & Santa’s arrival at Parkway Plaza on November 21
Printer-friendly versionEast County News Service November 11, 2025 (El Cajon) — Parkway Plaza will light up the night with its beloved Tree Lighting Ceremony and Santa’s Arrival to kick off the

Racing turkeys stampede at Oasis Camel Dairy in Ramona
Printer-friendly versionEast County News Service November 9, 2025 (Ramona) – This is not a turkey trot. The Wild West Turkey Stampede returns November 15, 28, 29 and 30 at the
BalletCenter Studios bringing a twist on a holiday classic
Printer-friendly version“Clara & the Nutcracker Soldier” Comes to the Joan B. Kroc Theatre East County News Service Nov. 8, 2025 (San Diego) — A fresh take on the

Christmas with the wild animals at Lions Tigers & Bears
Printer-friendly versionEast County News Service Nov. 18, 2025 (Alpine) — Lions Tigers & Bears, San Diego County’s lone accredited animal sanctuary is getting ready for the winter holidays. The

Marinelli Brothers Circus brings big top shows to El Cajon Nov. 12 – Dec. 5
Printer-friendly version East County News Service November 6, 2025 (El Cajon) – A brand new circus is coming to San Diego’s East County. The Marinelli Brothers Circus brings its