East County Magazine
CONSERVATION IN BLOOM: REAP REWARDS AT SPRING GARDEN FESTIVAL APRIL 24
Printer-friendly version Event highlights water conservation, cultural conservation, and Cuyamaca College’s biggest plant sale of the year April 3, 2010 (Rancho San Diego) — On Saturday, April 24, from 9am-4pm, Cuyamaca College’s campus will bloom with activity as three of its on-campus venues—the Ornamental Horticulture Department, the Water Conservation Garden, and the Heritage of the Americas Museum—invite the public
EASTERN EUROPEAN VOCAL CONCERT AT CUYAMACA COLLEGE APRIL 16
Printer-friendly version April 3, 2010 (El Cajon)– KITKA, an Oakland-based ensemble that specializes in Eastern European vocal traditions, will perform at Cuyamaca College on Friday, April 16, at 7:30pm in the Performing Arts Theatre. Tickets are $15 general admission and $10 for seniors and students. The Cuyamaca College Foundation and the San Diego Center for World Music are co-sponsoring the
THEY’RE OFF! EASTER EGG HUNTS ABOUND IN EAST COUNTY
Printer-friendly version April 2, 2010 (San Diego’s East County) – Looking for a fun and festive place to take the kids on an Easter Egg hunt this weekend? Here are our picks for some special places to let the kids run wild. Besides hunting for eggs, youngsters can also enjoy carnival rides, pony rides, rock climbing, games, crafts, and viewing
COMMUNITY WEIGHS IN ON EL CAJON’S PLANS FOR THEATER
Printer-friendly version Can theater be key to downtown revitalization? April 1, 2010 (El Cajon) – At a community forum Tuesday, dozens of East County residents turned out to hear details of a proposed plan for the East County Performing Arts Center (ECPAC). The conceptual business plan, prepared by consultant Kurt Swanson, calls for the City to takeover management of
BIGGEST HARMONICA PARTY IN SAN DIEGO COUNTY: SPRING HARP FEST XI APRIL 3 IN LA MESA
Printer-friendly version April 2, 2010 (La Mesa) – Groove to the sounds of blues harmonica at Spring Harp Fest XI, April 3rd at Harry Griffen Park ampitheater in La Mesa from 11 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.. The benefit event is free to the public, though donations are welcome. Proceeds in past years helped purchase 3,000 harmonicas for kids
HOP TO THE FREE KROC HOP BUNNY DROP
Printer-friendly version April 1, 2010 (San Diego) – On Saturday, April 3 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., the Kroc Center will host its seventh annual free Easter Egg hunt and festival. Over 1,500 local children are expected to enjoy visits and photos with the Easter bunny, as well as pony rides, bounce houses, arts and crafts, a rock climbing
RUNNERS & WALKERS INVITED TO JOIN 44th Annual El Cajon 20K ON APPRIL 3
Printer-friendly version March 28, 2010 (El Cajon)–The 44th annual El Cajon 20K race will be held on Saturday, April 3. The 12.4 mile course starts and ends at Granite Hills High School, located at the corner of Madison Avenue and 4th Street. The event kicks off starting at 6:30 a.m. for walkers and race walkers, and at 7
CRAFTS, HORSES ADDED TO EAST COUNTY GARDEN TOUR APRIL 24
Printer-friendly version March 30, 2010 (El Cajon)–Six unique gardens are featured in the Friends of East County Arts, Inc. 15th Annual Garden Tour on Saturday, April 24th from 9:00 a.m. to 3 p.m. Two of the star attractions on this year’s tour are ‘Ali,’ a strapping three-year-old Clydesdale horse born the day prior to the 2007 garden, tour and
EL CAJON UNVEILS PLAN FOR PERFORMING ARTS CENTER: PUBLIC COMMENT TUESDAY AT 1:30 PM
Printer-friendly version By Miriam Raftery March 29, 2010 (El Cajon) – The City of El Cajon has issued a proposed business plan for the East County Performing Arts Center (ECPAC). The proposed plan calls for the City to take back management of the facility, dramatically remodel the theater, then bring back headliner stars as entertainment. A City Council
DANCE & TUMBLING RECITAL SUNDAY MARCH 28
Printer-friendly version March 28, 2010 (El Cajon) – The City of El Cajon’s recreation department holds its annual Dance and Tumbling Recital, “Under The Big Top!” at the East County Performing Arts Center this Sunday, March 28, 2010, from 2:30 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. “It promises to be a day of amazing performances by the students in the
WHAT’S OLD IS NEW: LA MESA ANTIQUE FAIR SUNDAY MARCH 28
Printer-friendly version March 26, 2010 (La Mesa) – La Mesa hosts its Antique Street Faire on Sunday, March 28 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Once a year, La Mesa Boulevard is closed in the downtown village, while antique dealers from far and wide display their wares. Reminiscent of an old-fashioned Midwest flea market, the event also features live
CAN YOU CATCH A WHOPPER? CATFISH SEASON OPENS AT SANTEE LAKES APRIL 17
Printer-friendly version March 23, 2010 (Santee) – Barona Valley Ranch Resort announces a catfish catching contest at Santee Lakes. The season starts April 17 and runs through October 31st. This year, the lakes have been stocked with 23,000 pounds of catfish. Catch a tagged catfish and win prizes including cash, fishing poles, tackle boxes, camping gear and free fishing
RAMONA MUSIC FEST THIS SATURDAY, MARCH 20
Printer-friendly version March 19, 2010 (Ramona) – From country music to rock and roll, from barbershop to Americana, you’ll find music to suit your fancy at the Ramona Music Fest this Saturday, March 20 from 2 to 6 p.m. Cactus Twang and White headline this year’s event, featuring Cactus Jim Soldi, former guitarist for Johnny Cash. Other performers include
MARK TWAIN CENTENNIAL TRIBUTE THROUGH MARCH 21 AT SDSU
Printer-friendly version “My faculties are decaying now and soon I shall be so I cannot remember any but the things that never happened. –Mark Twain’s autobiography March 19, 2010 (San Diego) – The San Diego State Experimental Theater presents “A Mark Twain Centennial Tribute.” The show runs through this weekend, with performances Saturday at 4 p.m. and Sunday at
CHRIS KLICH JAZZ QUINTET PERFORMS TUES. MARCH 23 AS BENEFIT FOR CUYAMACA COLLEGE
Printer-friendly version March 16, 2010 (El Cajon) — The Chris Klich Jazz Quintet with Laura Preble will be performing a concert Tuesday, March 23, 2010, at Cuyamaca College, 900 Rancho San Diego Parkway, from 7:30pm to 9pm. The group will feature Chris on alto, soprano and tenor sax, clarinet and flute; Ed Kornhauser on piano; Brian Wright on
HOOLEYFEST! IRISH PUB’S ST. PATRICKS DAY BASH INCLUDES IRISH BANDS & FREE RIDES
Printer-friendly version March 16, 2010 (San Diego’s East County) – Looking for a fun, festive and safe way to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day tomorrow evening? Hooleys Irish Pub & Grill hosts its famed Hooleyfest! Celebration from 4 p.m. to midnight at both its original Rancho San Diego location and the new Grossmont Center site. Party-goers can avail themselves of
JAMES JOYCE’S ULYSSES—AND WHY EVERYONE SHOULD READ IT
Printer-friendly version A St. Patrick’s Day reflection on a writer’s own odyssey By E.A. Barrera "We may now imbibe freely of the contents of bottles and forthright books" Morris L. Ernst, Co-Founder of the American Civil Liberties Union. December 11, 1933. March 13, 2010 (San Diego) — The same week this country ended Prohibition, America opened the
INTERNATIONAL FAIR AT LAKESIDE SCHOOL OFFERS FOOD, GAMES, MUSIC & DANCES FROM AROUND THE WORLD
Printer-friendly version March 12, 2010 (Lakeside) – Travel around the world and learn about other cultures, watch traditional country dances, play carnival games and taste exotic foods without leaving San Diego County. It’s all part of the Lakeside Union School District and Riverview Elementary School’s second annual International Fair on Saturday, March 20 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
RENAISSANCE FAIRE BRINGS MEDIEVAL HISTORY TO LIFE SATURDAY
Printer-friendly version Bates Nut Farm in Valley Center hosts full day of merry-making March 12, 2010 (Valley Center) – Highland games, archery, medieval music and cooking demonstrations are all part of the fun this Saturday, March 13th . Historical re-enactors from the Society for Creative Anachronism Inc. Renaissance Group will host a Renaissance Faire at Bates Nut Farm in
ON A ROLL: 2ND ANNUAL CASINO ROYALE NIGHT SET FOR MARCH 18
Printer-friendly version Tickets still available for La Mesa Chamber’s James Bond bash at Town & Country Resort March 11, 2010 (La Mesa) – Try your luck at Monte Carlo-style gaming tables amid a night of glitz, glamour and prizes galore at La Mesa Chamber of Commerce’s Casino Royale Night on Thursday, March 18th . The event takes place in the
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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.
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Julian Mountain Brewfest set for Aug. 23
Printer-friendly versionEast County News Service July 24, 2025 (Julian) – The Julian Chamber of Commerce is inviting the public to savor the Julian Mountain Brewfest at Nickel Beer Company at 1485 Hollow Glen Road from noon to 4 p.m., Saturday, Aug. 23. A $25 ticket includes eight tastings, a commemorative cup and live music by the Sun Valley String Band. For
Mt. Helix Park Foundation Food & Wine Festival Aug. 16 features Gatsby theme
Printer-friendly version By Karen Pearlman Miriam Raftery also contributed to this report Last year’s Mt. Helix Park Foundation Food & Wine Festival event was a hit. (Photo courtesy Mt. Helix Park Foundation) July 24, 2025 (La Mesa) – A privately owned “public” park and nature preserve with an outdoor ampitheater toward the top, East County is fortunate Mount
Destination East County: midsummer fun
Printer-friendly version By Miriam Raftery July 17, 2025 (San Diego’s East County) – As the weather heats up, late July has many cool events including visits to the new Camel Lavender Farm in Ramona, Music on Main in El Cajon, Cajon Cruises, Movies at county parks and recreation centers, La Mesa’s Sundays at Six concerts and classic car shows, outdoor
Memory Weavers: award-winning novel of two women bonded by traumas
Printer-friendly version By Muffy Walker Reviewed by Pennell Paugh July 23, 2025 (San Diego) — San Diego resident, Muffy Walker celebrates the release of her debut novel, Dream Weavers. The book has received the Firebird Book Award, the Literary Titan Silver Book Award, the Hawthorne Prize, and was selected as finalist for the 2025 International Impact Book Awards in the
State Parks Photo Contest Running Through Sept. 30
Printer-friendly versionAnza-Borrego Desert State Park photo (left) by Karen Pearlman East County News Service July 15, 2025 (San Diego County) — California State Parks Foundation is inviting park visitors and photography enthusiasts of all ages and experience levels to capture the natural beauty, recreational activities and unique landscapes of California’s state parks. The California State Parks Foundation
You’re Invited! July 17 Feast at Himalayan Cuisine in La Mesa with East County Magazine’s Dining Club
Printer-friendly version You’re invited to East County Magazine’ s DIning Club feast at Himalayan Cuisine in La Mesa on Thursday, July 17 at 6:30 p.m. All proceeds benefit our local news reporting and our wildfire and emergency alerts! Everyone is welcome to attend. Himalayan Cuisine features delicious cuisine from Nepal, Tibet and India. Plus we’ll have a fabulous raffle with many great
Haute with Heart Fashion Show Aug. 2 Benefits St. Madeleine Sophie’s Center
Printer-friendly versionBy Heidi Hope July 4, 2025 (El Cajon) – You’re welcome to join in the spirit of London at the 47th annual Haute with Heart Fashion Show benefiting the nonprofit St. Madeleine Sophie’s Center in El Cajon. The event will celebrate British fashion and culture. This fashion show on Saturday, August 2 from 10 a.m. to 2
Festive Fourth of July Events and Fireworks
Printer-friendly version By Karen Pearlman June 25, 2025 (San Diego County) – Independence Day in the USA is just days away, and across San Diego County, there are myriad events to be part of to celebrate. East County Magazine has compiled a list of various offerings to celebrate the Fourth of July, whatever part of the region you’re
Roaring ’20s Fashion Show Sept. 27 Benefits Lemon Grove Charities
Printer-friendly version East County News Service July 3, 2025 (Lemon Grove) – You’re invited to step into the splendor of the Jazz Age at a Roaring Twenties Fashion Show event benefitting the Lemon Grove Forward Club and the Southern District Women’s Club. The event on Saturday, September 27 will feature a glamourous day of style and community purpose featuring a
LAKESIDE FIRE PANCAKE BREAKFAST JUNE 28
Printer-friendly versionEast County News Services June 27, 2025 (Lakeside) — The Lakeside Firefighters are hosting a $5 pancake breakfast on Saturday, June 28 at Lakeside Fire Station 2. The breakfast of pancakes as well as sausage, eggs, orange juice and coffee, will be served from 8 a.m. until noon at the station at 12216 Lakeside Ave. At the event, there
LEMON GROVE CONCERTS IN THE PARK SERIES OPENS JUNE 26
Printer-friendly versionEast County News Service June 25, 2025 (Lemon Grove) — Lemon Grove’s summer concert series kicks off at Berry Street Park (7071 Mt. Vernon in Lemon Grove) each Thursday evening from 6:30 to 9 p.m. The series opens June 26 with a DJ and Karaoke and runs through August 7, concluding with the Bayou Brothers playing Cajun, Zydeco and
LA MESA SUNDAYS AT SIX CONCERT SERIES CONTINUES
Printer-friendly versionThe Navy Southwest Band, shown here in 2013, is a regular part of the Sundays at Six summer concert series in La Mesa. (Photo by Karen Pearlman) East County News Services June 25, 2025 (La Mesa) — La Mesa’s Sundays at Six summer concert series continues this Sunday, June 29, with variety dance band Breez’n taking the stage from
BRAXTON’S CENTURY, VOL. 3: ROYAL HISTORICAL FANTASY
Printer-friendly version Braxton’s Century, Vol. 3 by J R Strayer Jr Review by Pennell Paugh June 22,2025 (San DIego) — San Diego resident J.R. Strayve, Jr. has produced his third book in the Braxton Century series — a historical fantasy set in the late Victorian, Edwardian, and early 20th century. Braxton, as Europe hurtles toward war and revolutions
FARM TOUR DAY RETURNS JUNE 28
Printer-friendly versionExplore San Diego Agriculture with Local Farmers East County News Service June 10, 2025 (Escondido) — The San Diego County Farm Bureau is bringing back Farming Tour Day, starting at 9 a.m., Saturday June 28. This year’s event offers a rare, behind-the-scenes look at a diverse array of local farms in Escondido, showcasing the heart of San Diego agriculture.
CONCERNS LEAD JEWISH COMMUNITY TO PULL SUPPORT OF SD PRIDE
Printer-friendly versionControversial Headline Performer, Safety Concerns Cited as Reasons for Withdrawal By Karen Pearlman June 7, 2025 (San Diego) – Many local Jewish organizations from across San Diego County that have traditionally been part of the annual San Diego Pride event will not be joining in this year. Jewish community leaders say that because the Pride Festival chose musical artist
LOCAL AUTHOR’S NOVEL, IN HARM’S WAY, BRINGS REVOLUTIONARY WAR NAVAL BATTLES TO LIFE
Printer-friendly versionIn Harm’s Way: Book One of The Sea Hawkes Chronicles by Thomas M. Wing Reviewed by Pennell Paugh June 7, 2025 (San Diego) — San Diego resident Thomas M. Wing has released his second novel In Harm’s Way, an action-packed historical story set during America’s War of Independence. Wing says he based his story on actual
PANCAKE BREAKFAST FUNDRAISER IN LA MESA
Printer-friendly versionEast County News Service June 6, 2025 (La Mesa) — Heartland Firefighters of La Mesa will host a pancake breakfast fundraiser and emergency preparedness training on Sunday, June 8, at La Mesa Fire Station 11. The event, which will run from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. at 8034 Allison Ave., is open to all ages. Tickets are
MT MIGUEL HS FOUNDATION HOSTING QUARTERMANIA FUNDRAISER
Printer-friendly versionEast County News Service June 6, 2025 (Spring Valley) — Mt Miguel High School Foundation, the nonprofit organization devoted to helping Mount Miguel High School, is hosting Quartermania this month. Quartermania is a cross between an auction and bingo. The event, set from 1 to 3:30 p.m., Saturday, June 21, will be held at the Mount
LOCAL NOVELIST EVOKES APPALACHIA IN DEPRESSION ERA
Printer-friendly version Thank Ye, Mister Sun by Bob Riffenburgh Reviewed by Pennell Paugh June 5, 2025 — Award-winning San Diego resident Bob Riffenburgh has written a charming historical fiction novel about Appalachia, 1939-40. Thirteen-year-old Ronson Allen stays hungry after dinner because there isn’t enough food to go around. Nevertheless, he feels carefree, loves his family, and is
“ARTIVAL” DEBUTS IN DOWNTOWN EL CAJON JUNE 7
Printer-friendly version June 3, 2025 (El Cajon) — Artival– an art, wine and music festival–makes its debut in downtown El Cajon on June 7 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. to celebrate art, culture and community. Organizers describe the new festival as “where art meets vibes: immerse yourself in creativity, community and craft.” Enjoy an art walk featuring works by
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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.
Our Guide to Live Entertainment venues
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
Our Guide to Live Entertainment venues