Good morning, Escondido.

CBS 8 and Goldenvoice are offering a sweepstakes awarding eight winners a pair of tickets to see Zach Bryan on July 31, 2026 in San Diego+viewers can enter by watching CBS 8 Mornings and The CW San Diego for the daily sweepstakes code word from today through November 28.

On Monday, Mama’s Kitchen volunteers packed over 3,000 holiday pies to support home-delivered meals for critically ill neighbors in Escondido — their work helped ensure local residents received necessary support during the holiday season.

Mel Vernon—Captain of the San Luis Rey Band of Mission Indians and a native heritage advocate—was named November Constituent of the Month by Congressman Mike Levin during Native American History Month.

Escondido Art Association president Adrian Stewart delivered his Thanksgiving message that celebrated local art achievements—naming John Cowan for Gold, Liora Laperle for Silver and Ron Hanson for Bronze with cash prizes of $100, $75 and $50.

He introduced award-winning artist Peggy Stokes and urged members to support future exhibitions with donations—plans for a larger gallery are underway.

California’s CalKIDS program has set aside over $8 million in scholarships for San Diego County children born after July 1, with many funds still unclaimed.

Families should check eligibility at CalKIDS.org—using a birth certificate number for newborns or a Statewide Student Identifier for public school students—to claim assistance for college expenses.

The U.S. Department of Education will lower federal loan limits for many graduate programs that are not considered professional — including advanced nursing — starting in July.

Educators like James Messina and the University of San Diego fear that students may have to rely on private lenders, which could worsen shortages of teachers and nurses.

On November 18, 2025, the Escondido Creek Conservancy completed its $4.8 million purchase of the 160-acre White-Atterbury property—known locally as Franks Peak—in San Marcos.

The acquisition, funded by state and federal grants, connects key wildlife corridors—linking Harmony Grove with San Marcos—and supports future outdoor education programs.

A nearly $17 million federal grant will allow NCTD to replace natural gas buses with new zero-emission vehicles at its East Bus Division in Escondido—routes serving inland communities will see improved service.

The new buses will reduce emissions and delays while helping NCTD advance its goal to transition to a 100% zero-emission fleet by 2042.

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.

Holiday Wreath Workshop

11:30 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. — Domaine Artefact Vineyard & Winery — $80.00 — Craft custom holiday wreaths with fresh greenery and enjoy winery views.

World Ballet Company - The Nutcracker

7:00 – 8:30 PM — California Center for the Arts, Escondido — $60.00 - $138.00 — Experience a timeless holiday classic where dreams and reality blend in a magical ballet journey.

Golden State Ballet Presents The Nutcracker

2:00 – 3:30 PM — California Center for the Arts, Escondido — Ticket prices vary — Experience the magic of the season with a classic ballet performance.

A Charlie Brown Christmas 5K/10K

7:00 AM - 11:59 PM — Kit Carson Park — $42.95+ — Celebrate 60 years of 'A Charlie Brown Christmas' with family-friendly runs and festive activities.

City Ballet's The Nutcracker

2:00 – 3:30 PM — California Center for the Arts, Escondido — Ticket details unavailable — Experience the magic of the classic holiday ballet with City Ballet of San Diego.

The Nutcracker by City Ballet

7:30-9 p.m. — California Center for the Arts, Escondido — Tickets required — Experience the magic of the holiday season with this timeless ballet performance.

City Ballet of San Diego's The Nutcracker

7:30-9 p.m. — California Center for the Arts, Escondido — Ticket prices vary — Experience the holiday classic brought to life in a magical ballet performance.