Escondido, California – May 15, 2026 – The California Center for the Arts, Escondido is thrilled to announce the return of the 61st Annual Independence Day Festival, a cherished community tradition. This year’s festival promises to be an unforgettable celebration of our nation’s independence, held in Grape Day Park on July 4th from 4PM to 9:30PM.
Join us for a vibrant and festive experience featuring live performances by celebrated artists, delectable offerings from local food trucks, refreshing craft beers, spirits and sodas available at concessions, a diverse artisan market, exciting games and activities for all ages, a hula-hoop contest and a breathtaking fireworks display on July 4th, launched from our parking lot for incredible views.
Daily Schedule of Events:
4:00 pm – Concessions Open
4:30 pm – Welcome and introductions
5:00 pm – Prairie Moons – Vintage Country
6:15 pm – Band of Gringos- Psychedelic Rock
8:00 pm – Band of the Golden West: The U.S. Air Force Band
9:00 pm – A spectacular firework show lighting up the night sky
Main Stage Schedule:
4:30 PM – Opening Remarks and National Anthem by the Mayor’s Contest Winner
5:00 – 6:00 PM – Prairie Moons
The Prairie Moons are a western swing band from Long Beach, CA. They play a wide range of jazz and traditional country from the 1920’s through the 50’s. The band features virtuoso instrumentalists as well as authentic harmony singing and cowboy yodeling. The Prairie Moons will take you on a trip back in time as you explore the roots of American music.
6:15 – 7:15 PM – Band of Gringos
Band of Gringos (aka. B.o.G.) is a power trio hailing from the psychedelic and soulful town of Ocean Beach in San Diego, CA. Cody Sherman (Guitar, Vocals), Spence Noble (Drums), and Kasey Dring (Bass) each have their own different musical influences, which ultimately creates B.o.G. ‘s eclectic and unique sound.
7:35 – 7:45 PM – Hula Hoop Contest
8:00 – 9:00 PM – Band of the Golden West: The U.S. Air Force Band
Enjoy a stirring patriotic performance from one of The U.S. Air Force’s premier musical ensemble.
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!
Special thanks to our sponsors:
City of Escondido, Linden Root Dickinson Foundation, County of San Diego, Masserini Foundation, Prebys Foundation, Parker Foundation, National Endowment for the Arts, Big Blue Swim School, Clean Energy Alliance and the California Center for the Arts Charitable Trust.
VIP SEATING AVAILABLE in the GREAT GREEN CANTEEN
“The Great Green Canteen” – A CCAEF Independence Day Fundraiser BBQ with VIP seating
Ticket Cost: $80 for a table of 4
Table seating includes the following for each attendee: One beer token, reserved and shaded concert seating in the orange grove area of the Great Green for the entire event, and one delicious meal made to order from the Great Green Canteen BBQ.
Cheeseburger on a brioche
Nathan’s Hot Dog
Blackened Chicken Sandwich
Black Bean Patty on Brioche
*all served with a fresh cut watermelon wedge and potato salad
Join the Mayor’s National Anthem Contest and perform the Anthem at this year’s festival!
The deadline for submission is June 17th at midnight.
About the California Center for the Arts, Escondido:
The California Center for the Arts, Escondido Foundation, is dedicated to enriching the cultural and creative vitality of California by providing access to the arts for all members of our community. Through a diverse range of performances, exhibitions, and educational programs, the Foundation continues to be a driving force in the cultural life of California.
