Good morning, Escondido.

The Canopy Grove Garden Club will host a Charity Cornhole Tournament and Silent Auction on November 2nd from 2:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at Canopy Grove by Wedgewood to raise funds for a new community garden, public orchard, and hydroponic farm in Escondido — the event will offer a $25 team entry fee with a $100 first-place prize, along with food, games, music, and a Harvest Fall Market featuring local vendors.

The 6th annual North County VetFest will be held on November 11 with a parade running from 9:30 a.m. to 11 a.m. along a lap route around Grape Day Park—after which festivities with food trucks, live entertainment, and post-parade ceremonies will move to American Legion Post 149.

Co-chairs Stef Holden, Jen Holden, Bill McNaughton, and Cody York said the event now includes a broader area along Hwy 78 and east to Valley Center.

Escondido Lumber at South Quince, owned by Pete since 1934, continues its shop local tradition — supporting the community with simple, friendly service.

Downtown offers residents events today including trick or treating at noon and a guided Social Collage Hour at 9:15 a.m., and a Halloween night live music show with upcoming festivals later this week.

Interfaith Community Services launched its People for People Fund on October 23 in Escondido to aid local families facing federal funding cuts by offering food, housing, healthcare and more.

The campaign, backed by a $1 million matching challenge from Price Philanthropies, will run through the end of the calendar year — every donation being matched dollar for dollar.

The Arc of San Diego is marking National Disability Employment Awareness Month by partnering with Vons to honor individuals with disabilities, including Sean Mooney who has thrived as a courtesy clerk for nearly three years + the organization supports job training for over 2,000 people annually. Vons reinforces its commitment to inclusive hiring with consistent training and coaching that builds a stronger local workforce.

Today, Target in Vista launched next-day delivery for orders placed by 3 p.m. PST with free shipping on orders over $35—Target Circle members get extra perks for holiday shopping.

The retailer also expanded its Clothing Take Back Program to include an Escondido store along with other California locations so guests can recycle unwanted clothing.

Urban Barn, a local antiques store on Grand Avenue owned by Robin and Steve Root, has been open for 11 years and grown from a small vendor space to housing over 40 sellers—its extended hours and holiday events have boosted business after past road construction challenges.

The store now operates Monday — Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. and has hosted events like hot cocoa bars and flea markets.

The City of Escondido began a process to choose an artist to design a sculpture for the Grand & Broadway roundabout.

The Public Art Commission will review the design with public input before the artwork, themed 'Authentically Escondido,' is installed next year.

The Escondido Art Association will host a November exhibit called 'Honouring Our Veterans' running November 5 through December 5 with a take-in event on November 1, a live demo by Jenny Lee on November 6 at Grand Avenue Gallery, and an opening reception on November 8—additional workshops and social mixers will follow at local venues.

The city's Director of Economic Development — Jennifer Schoeneck — reported at the October 22 council meeting that median income grew 63% over the last five years, rising from $65,326 in 2020 to $102,145 in 2024.

New residents and higher-paying jobs drove the income boost as about 1,000 more people moved into Escondido.

The California Center for the Arts, Escondido Foundation will offer educational classes in November—these include a Kintsugi Workshop on November 15 at 12:30 p.m., beginner swing dancing sessions, and an air-dry clay hand-building workshop where all materials will be provided.

County leaders warned nearly 400,000 San Diegans that November CalFresh benefits will be delayed due to a federal shutdown+ they urged the community to step up and help neighbors facing food shortages.

San Diego FC finished first in the Western Conference in its inaugural season and will head into the playoffs soon—an uncommon feat for an expansion team that has rallied local fans behind their strong play.

Intimate Classics: 284 Strings

3:00 – 4:30 PM — California Center for the Arts, Escondido — Ticket prices vary — Experience the enchanting blend of cello, piano, and harp in a captivating classical music performance.

A Step Beyond - El Alebrije

7-8:30 p.m. — California Center for the Arts, Escondido — Check site for ticket prices — Experience a vibrant live performance at the esteemed concert hall.

Cinderella

7:00-8:30 p.m. — California Center for the Arts, Escondido — Ticket info available — Experience the magical tale of Cinderella with a dazzling ballet performance featuring 40 international dancers and stunning costumes.

Toast - The Ultimate Bread Experience

7-8:30 p.m. — California Center for the Arts, Escondido — $ — Experience pitch-perfect renditions of classic soft rock hits from the band Bread.

Matilda - The Musical

1:30-3:00 p.m. — California Center for the Arts, Escondido — $36 — Experience the magic of Roald Dahl's classic tale brought to life on stage.

International Ballet Stars

2-3:30 p.m. — California Center for the Arts, Escondido — Ticket prices vary — Experience an enchanting afternoon of dance featuring talented ballet performers.