News from the City of Encinitas | January 29, 2026

Apply Now: Join the New Business Commission

The City of Encinitas is now accepting applications for the newly established Business Commission, a group created to support a thriving, resilient local economy. The Commission will advise the City Council on economic development priorities, business retention, workforce development, zoning impacts, and other issues that help strengthen relationships between the City and its business community. Applicants should have experience or knowledge in areas like economic development, planning, or entrepreneurship, and must either represent a local business (with a valid Encinitas Business Registration) or be an at-large member who is a registered Encinitas voter.

 

There are seven to nine seats available, with representation required from each of the City’s four districts. Commissioners will serve staggered three-year terms and meet every other month to help shape economic policy and initiatives that reflect Encinitas’ values and quality of life.


Interested community members are encouraged to apply online by Thursday, February 26, 2026, at 5:00 p.m. Applicants will be asked to briefly share their qualifications at the March 11, 2026 City Council meeting (date subject to change).

Nominations Open for 2025 Environmental Award Program!

Leaves for the Environmental Award Program logo

The City of Encinitas Environmental Commission is proud to announce the opening of nominations for the prestigious Environmental Award Program (EAP). Now in its tenth year, the EAP seeks to celebrate deserving individuals, businesses, and non-profits for their exceptional commitment to environmental stewardship and sustainability within the city.


The Environmental Award Program, the first of its kind in San Diego County and one of only a few across the nation, includes two award categories:


  • The Excellence in Environmental Stewardship award is granted to a for-profit and non-profit business.
  • The Environmental Hero award recognizes an individual adult and youth for outstanding environmental achievements.


Nominations for the 2025 Environmental Award Program are open until 11:59 PM on Friday, February 27, 2026. To nominate an individual or business in Encinitas, please complete the 2025 Environmental Award Program Nomination Form.


Last year’s winners were celebrated during the April 23, 2025 City Council meeting, where they received recycled glass trophies made by San Dieguito Trophy. For more information about the history of the award, please visit the City’s Awards and Recognitions webpage.


Join us in celebrating environmental excellence and submit your nominations today!


Universal Waste Collection Event

Examples of universal waste, including batteries, lightbulbs, motor oil, electronics, and sharps

Calling all Encinitas residents 📣

Are you looking for a convenient way to dispose of unwanted electronics, batteries, bulbs, sharps? Join us this weekend for a FREE Universal Waste Collection event.


Date: Saturday, January 31st, 2026

Time: 9:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.

Location: Encinitas City Hall,

505 South Vulcan Avenue, Encinitas, CA 92024


How does it work?

  • This is a drive-up event – no hassle, no fuss!
  • We’re accepting a variety of items, including household & lithium-ion batteries, light bulbs, electronics, sharps, and more!
  • FREE for Encinitas Residents-just bring proof of residency, such as a driver’s license or utility bill.


Can't make this event? Consider using our door to door collection services or permanent collection facilities in Vista and Poway, simply call 800-714-1195 to make an appointment.


For more information on accepted materials and all ways to dispose of Universal Waste, please visit the City's Household Hazardous Waste webpage.



Give Blood, Get Cookies 🍪❤️

The City of Encinitas is hosting a community blood drive with the San Diego Blood Bank on Thursday, February 5, from 9:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. at the Public Works Parking Lot (160 Calle Magdalena). Donating blood is a simple way to make a life-saving difference for local patients and hospitals, and this drive makes giving back a little sweeter.



As a thank you, blood donors will receive a complimentary box of Thin Mints® Girl Scout Cookies®, while supplies last. Appointments are encouraged, but walk-ins are welcome. Please remember to bring a photo ID and arrive hydrated. To schedule an appointment or learn more, visit sandiegobloodbank.org/donate or call (619) 400-8251.

Need Help Using Technology?

Tech-Y-Tutor student helping senior with technology

Tech-Y Tutor – Adults 50 and over can bring functioning & charged laptops, phones, and tablets to receive free assistance from local teens with tasks such as attaching photos to texts, managing contacts, handling spam emails, etc.


Date: Saturday, February 7, 2026

Time: 10am – 12pm

Location: Encinitas Community & Senior Center, 1140 Oakcrest Park Drive.


Register for the class in-person at the Encinitas Community Center or online at www.EncinitasParksandRec.com. For more information, call 760-943-2250 or email prca@encinitasca.gov.

Free Fair Housing Webinar

Join Legal Aid Society of San Diego for a FREE training open to anyone – applicants for renting, tenants, and housing providers! Learn about your rights and responsibilities under anti-discrimination laws.


Fair Housing Basics

Date: Tuesday, February 10, 2026

Time: 2:00pm


Click here to register!

Music by the Sea 2026 Concerts

The excitement is real and the demand is soaring. Limited single tickets available for Feb. 20


Music by the Sea launched its 2026 Concert Season to a completely sold-out house, with the Season Opening Concert on Friday, January 23 featuring Paul Tseng on cello, and Justin Hansen on piano, selling out. Season Passes are now sold out, confirming Music by the Sea as one of Encinitas’ most sought-after cultural experiences.


If you missed opening night, don’t worry—the music continues, and single tickets are still available for upcoming concerts.







Up Next — Don’t Miss This!

Limited tickets remaining—nearly sold out!


Friday, February 20, 2026 | 7:00 PM

San Diego Music Group – String Quartet

Quartets by Haydn and Mendelssohn

Harold Reeves, violin

Adrian Evarkiou-Kaku, violin

Jason Karlyn, viola

Xian Zhuo, cello


Uniting acclaimed performers from the San Diego Symphony Orchestra and co-founders of the San Diego Music Group, this quartet blends world-class artistry and rich musical heritage to create unforgettable live experiences across Southern California.


Purchase your concert tickets online now. Seats are limited, and concerts are selling quickly


For ticket assistance, please call (760) 633-2746 or email arts@encinitasca.gov.

Artists and programs subject to change. All sales final. All card transactions include a 5% processing fee.



Still to Come in 2026

March 20, 2026 | 7PM

Vanessa Fountain, harp

An enchanting evening of heavenly music for solo harp

Award-winning harpist Vanessa Fountain makes her Music by the Sea debut.


May 1, 2026 | 7PM

Kenneth Liao, violin

A dynamic solo performance by the San Diego Symphony violinist, known for his expressive artistry and international career.


May 29, 2026 | 7PM

Julian Gargiulo, piano

Virtuosity meets humor and storytelling

Internationally acclaimed entertainer and composer known as the “Pianist with the Hair.”


June 26, 2026 | 7PM

Season Finale – The Grand Finale Ensemble

Featuring Mendelssohn’s Trio No. 1 in D minor

Cristian Fatu, violin | Dan Yu, piano | Paul Tseng, cello

A thrilling conclusion to the 2026 season.

Download the MyEncinitas App!

The MyEncinitas App is a digital portal that allows users to obtain information related to City services and request assistance. Through the app, residents can find online information, report an issue, learn about City projects and more.



MyEncinitas App

NEXT REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING >>


Wednesday, February 11, 2026 at 6:00 p.m.

This meeting is in-person at City Hall.

CITY HALL IS OPEN >> For more up-to-date city news, events, & activities please visit City of Encinitas | Home

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