A new cultural tradition is coming to East County.

On Saturday, June 7, Downtown El Cajon will debut Artivál, East San Diego County’s first arts festival. The free, open-air celebration brings together local creatives, musicians, food and drink vendors, and the community to highlight the city’s cultural identity.

Held from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. in the heart of Downtown El Cajon at Main & Magnolia, the free festival kicks off the summer season with a showcase of more than 50 artists and makers, interactive installations, live music, and gourmet food trucks. For those 21 and up, East County Arts Association has curated a ticketed Wine & Beer Garden experience that adds an elevated experience with tastings from local wineries, craft brew, and beverage brands.

“El Cajon is one of the most diverse cities in the county, and yet, East County has never had an arts festival to call its own,” said Chris Berg, marketing & engagement manager for the City of El Cajon and Downtown El Cajon Business Partners’ board member. “Artivál is our way of creating a new tradition for the community and visitors to experience the city’s creativity. Plus, the sun is always shining in El Cajon in June!”

Artivál’s mission is clear – to transform Downtown El Cajon’s public spaces into a living canvas, spark cultural dialogue, and create lasting access to the arts in a part of San Diego that’s long been underserved by creative programming.

Featuring a lineup of visual and performing artists, from rising talents to veteran creatives, Artivál celebrates the full spectrum of local artistry across disciplines and cultures.

Festival highlights:

• Art Walk (10 a.m. – 6 p.m.): A vibrant outdoor gallery featuring local and regional artists across diverse mediums.

• Food Trucks (10 a.m. – 6 p.m.): Flavor-packed bites from East County’s favorite mobile kitchens.

• Wine & Beer Garden (Noon – 6 p.m.): Guests 21+ can sip and relax with beverages JuneShine, Flying Embers, Burning Beard Brewery, The Tap Truck East San Diego, Granite Lion Winery, Fog Wine Co., and Snake Oil Co.

• Live Music (Noon – 6 p.m.):

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  Cassie B (11:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.): High-energy pop, funk, and soul.

• Kimba Light (2:45 p.m. – 5:30 p.m.): Latin, funk, and Afro-Caribbean fusion.

Wine & Beer Garden tickets and Cocktail tickets will only be available for purchase onsite (cash or card). Wine & Beer Garden tickets will be sold at the entrance within the fenced garden, while Cocktail tickets will be sold at Belly Bar next to Snake Oil Canopy.

To learn more, visit artivalsandiego.com.