Good morning, Escondido.

ECF is funding a $350,000 lighting system to outline the 110 ft by 40.5 ft Escondido Arch at Grand Avenue and Centre City Parkway — the contractor held its first meeting and expects nighttime installation to finish before July 4.

Spiders have started appearing in yards today due to warmer weather; experts say orb weavers and tarantulas help control pests (and even pollinate local flowers) so residents should safely relocate them outside.

Waymo is testing driverless cars in the San Diego region with plans to launch later this year, and local rideshare drivers have voiced safety concerns after incidents elsewhere.

State Senator Dave Cortese introduced SB 1246 to require stricter safety rules, and the bill now awaits committee hearings.

Ed Musgrove, a retired sheriff’s captain and San Marcos councilmember, is running for state senator in the 40th District which includes parts of Escondido.

He will focus on affordable housing, public safety, and education (endorsed by local law enforcement and tribal groups) as the current representative steps down.

San Diego County supervisors voted 3-1 on a pilot program to help first-time homebuyers.

The CAO will report in 90 days on strategies including public and private partnerships and down payment assistance, while Supervisor Desmond opposed the measure after a politically charged line was added.

Tom Gores of Platinum Equity is bidding for the Padres, expected to sell for over $3 billion, with final bids due next month and a deal possibly reached by end of April (other contenders include Joe Lacob, Dan Friedkin and Jose Feliciano).

Earth Day Escondido 2026

10 a.m. – 2 p.m. — Washington Park — Free entry — Celebrate Earth Day with family-friendly activities focused on sustainability and local community connection.

Circus Vargas

12-3 p.m. — Mershops North County Mall — Tickets start at $92 — Experience an unforgettable circus event with thrilling performances in Escondido.

Gourd Dreamcatchers Workshop

6:30-8:30 p.m. — The Grand | Ritz Theater — All materials provided — Create a unique gourd dreamcatcher while exploring Native American cultural traditions.

KPOP Guardians Tribute Show

4:00 – 5:30 PM — The Grand | Ritz Theater — Tickets may be required — Experience a vibrant celebration of K-Pop with impressive performances and dazzling visuals.

Randy Travis Concert

7:30-9 p.m. — California Center for the Arts, Escondido — Ticket prices vary — Experience the musical legacy of Randy Travis, a Country Music Hall of Fame inductee with over 25 million albums sold.

Music in the Plaza: Carlos y Charlos

7 p.m. — California Center for the Arts, Escondido — Ticket required — Enjoy the vibrant sounds of traditional Norteño music from two talented multi-instrumentalists.