Good morning, Escondido.

The Padres and Bikes For Kids provided 580 custom bikes and matching helmets to children from Hancock Elementary in the Murphy Canyon military housing community who are still recovering from a May jet crash that injured multiple people and claimed six lives—an effort to bring some hope after the tragedy.

On September 6, the American Legion of Escondido Post 149 and Brothers of 6 Charities held a First Responders Patriot Day 9/11 remembrance dinner—honoring local fire fighters, Cal Fire Valley Center and first responder nurses by presenting certificates with a heartfelt message of thanks. The event recognized the brave service of our community's first responders.

The Escondido Grape Day Festival will be held on Saturday, September 13 beginning at noon—this annual event celebrates the original Bond Burning Day in 1905 when the dam bond for Lake Wohlford was paid off.

The festival will feature grape stomping, live music, artisan demonstrations, food vendors, and a 5K run—organizers note that parking may be challenging and proceeds benefit local community projects.

Today, the California Center for the Arts in Escondido hosts Musica en la Plaza at Lyric Court with music starting at 7:30 p.m. and El Grito celebrated at 9 p.m. — a nod to the historic call for Mexican independence that began in 1810.

This weekend, many events will celebrate Mexican Independence across the border—San Diego, Linda Vista, Chula Vista, Escondido and Tijuana will host music, dance and food shows honoring the El Grito tradition.

In Escondido, USA Multicultural will host Fiestas Patrias 2025 at Grape Day Park on Sunday from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Local author SG Blaise, who lives in Escondido, spoke at San Diego Comic-Con and told the Escondido Times-Advocate about her debut book The Last Lumenian which features a heroine with panic attacks that turn into strength.

She said she will introduce new animations, apps, games and another book soon—plans that emphasize fantasy and empowerment.

The Escondido Art Association is hosting the People Who Need People Exhibition from Sept.

10th to Oct. 3 with a free live art demo by Kati Cowan held on Sept. 11th at the Grand Ave Gallery. It will host a gallery reception on Sept. 13th from 4 to 6 p.m.—award winners will share their creative insights and more art events and volunteer opportunities are planned.

Gas prices in San Diego County have risen to $4.74 per gallon, about 16 cents higher than last month due to a gas tax hike and new low-carbon fuel standards—refinery closures could push prices even higher while winter gasoline blends may lower them later in the year.

Wing Cheung, a Palomar College professor, was honored with the Distinguished Geospatial Educator Award at a June conference in Gettysburg — his work secured new job codes and updated courses that connect students with local community projects.

He will lead NSF-funded programs to boost land surveying careers and revise the drone safety program to better prepare students for future jobs.

On Saturday, August 30, the City of Escondido unveiled a new student mural at Washington Park that was designed by Jessica Huynh from Del Lago Academy—she worked with her teacher Sudi Memarzadeh and fellow students to complete the piece.

The ceremony was attended by Principal Kristi Kalish, Supt. Jon Petersen, and Council Members Consuelo Martinez and Judy Fitzgerald as part of the third annual Washington Park mural project.

Students from over 70 schools in San Diego County are learning to sort organic waste, recycling and trash through a program run by I Love A Clean San Diego, which is supported by county funding.

Student Green Teams earn reward cards for proper recycling—helping to spread good habits at school.

Escondido’s Environmental Programs Division announced it will hold Coastal Cleanup Day at Reidy Creek on September 20 from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.—volunteers are advised that the site is not safe for young children due to street proximity and debris.

Senator Jones’s SB 380 passed the legislature and now heads to Newsom’s desk for final approval to study transitional housing for sexually violent predators.

The bill directs state hospitals to examine alternatives for community release—aiming to boost public safety in neighborhoods.

Ventura Highway: A Tribute to America

7-9:30 p.m. — The Grand | Ritz Theater — Cost TBD — Experience the legendary folk-rock music of America performed by an all-star tribute band.

Shine On Floyd Tribute Concert

7-8:30 p.m. — The Grand | Ritz Theater — Tickets required — Experience the sonic tapestry of Pink Floyd with incredible musicianship and a stunning light show.

Poway Rodeo

5:30-9 p.m. — Poway Valley Riders Association — Cost varies — Experience the thrill of traditional rodeo competition honoring the Old West spirit.

ACF Fiorentina Academy Soccer Training

8:30-11:30 a.m. — Escondido High School — Early Bird pricing available — Train like a pro with official coaches from Italy and elevate your soccer skills.