The California Center for the Arts, Escondido, is proud to present the 60th Annual Independence Day Festival, a beloved community tradition filled with music, culture, and patriotic fun. This free family-friendly event.

Join us for an unforgettable Independence Day Festival, an annual celebration filled with family fun, live entertainment, and patriotic spirit! Bring a blanket, pack a picnic, and settle in for a day of exciting festivities. As the sun sets, get ready for a dazzling display of fireworks lighting up the night sky, accompanied by live music that will have everyone on their feet.

Each year, the festival features:

Games and Activities: Enjoy a wide range of games and activities for all ages, ensuring there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Culinary Delights: Savor mouthwatering offerings from local food trucks, bringing you the best in street food.

Concessions: Refresh yourself with a variety of beverages, beers, and spirits available throughout the event.

This beloved festival reflects our mission to bring the community together to discover, create, and celebrate the arts. You help make events like this possible! Even a small contribution—just $10/month—or a one-time donation can make a big difference in keeping these festivities free and accessible for all. If you’re interested in contributing, please contact Jesse Gonzalez at jgonzalez@artcenter.org, or visit our Ways to Give page to support this wonderful community tradition.

If you’re a local business interested in showcasing your offerings at the festival, please visit our Vendor Registration page to learn more about this exciting opportunity.

Join us in celebrating our community this Independence Day!

Festival goers can look forward to an exciting day of entertainment and celebration featuring:

Live music on the main stage

Artisan market and local vendors

Delicious food trucks and craft beer garden

Great Green Canteen VIP Experience

Free arts & crafts, face painting, and airbrush tattoos (4:30–8:30 pm)

Complimentary admission to the Escondido History Center (4:00–7:00 pm)

Fireworks spectacular at 9:00 pm

Main Stage Schedule:

4:00 - 7:00 pm - Escondido History Center (Complimentary Admission)
4:30 - 8:30 pm - Free Arts & Crafts, Face Painting, and Airbrush Tattoos
4:30 - 4:35 pm - Opening Remarks
4:35 - 4: 55 pm - Honoring Our Veterans: VFW, DVA, VVA, Posting of the Flag, Bugles Across America, and Play Harmonized Taps
5:00 pm - National Anthem Contest Winner
5:15 - 6:15 pm - Back to the Garden (Musical Artist)

This crowd-favorite tribute band channels the spirit of the 1960s and ’70s, covering hits from Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young, Joni Mitchell, The Beatles, and more. Their nostalgic sound and multi-instrumental performances bring peace, love, and harmony to every stage they play.

6:20 - 6:30 pm - Hula Hoop Contest

6:30 - 7:30 pm - Kimmi Bitter (Musical Artist)
Hailed as one of Southern California’s rising retro-country stars, Kimmi Bitter blends vintage twang with modern Americana soul. With a voice reminiscent of Patsy Cline and Linda Ronstadt, her timeless sound has earned her acclaim on stages across the country.

7:50 - 8:00 pm - Dance

8:00 - 9:00 pm - 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing Band
Enjoy a stirring patriotic performance from one of the U.S. Marine Corps’ premier musical ensembles.

9:00 pm - Fireworks Show!

This event is free and open to the public, with activities and entertainment for all ages. Bring your blankets, lawn chairs, and festive spirit!