September 30, 2026
Things to Do in East County San Diego This October 2026

One of the best parts about living in East County San Diego is the sense of community. October is especially fun, with fall markets, Oktoberfest celebrations, Halloween activities, and plenty of opportunities to get out and enjoy the neighborhoods that make East County unique.
If you’re looking for something to do this October, here are a few local events to add to your calendar.
La Mesa Oktoberfest | October 2–4
Downtown La Mesa kicks off October with its annual Oktoberfest. The event takes over La Mesa Village with live music, traditional food and drinks, games, dachshund races, family activities, and more.
It’s also a great opportunity to spend some time walking around the Village and experiencing one of the things that makes living in La Mesa so unique.
Ladies at the Lake Fall Market | October 10
Head to Santee Lakes on October 10 for the 10th Anniversary of the Ladies at the Lake Fall Market. The event features local makers and small businesses selling everything from home decor and clothing to jewelry, artisan goods, and treats.
Events like this are one of the reasons Santee continues to have such a strong community feel.
Come See Us at the Southern California Christian Business Expo | October 17
We’ll also be out in the community this month!
Kniffing Landscape & Maintenance will have a booth at the Southern California Christian Business Expo on October 17.
If you’re attending, stop by and say hello. Whether you have a landscape or real estate question, want to talk about the East County market, or simply want to meet us, we’d love to see you there.
Santee Lakes Halloween Spooktacular | October 24
Finish out the month with Halloween Spooktacular at Santee Lakes. The October 24 event includes trunk-or-treating, games, and other Halloween activities, making it another fun way to enjoy the East County community.
More Than Just a Place to Live
Choosing where to live isn’t only about the house. The parks, local businesses, traditions, events, and people around you all contribute to what makes a community feel like home.
Having lived in East County my whole life, I enjoy sharing the places and events that make this part of San Diego special.
If you’re thinking about buying or selling in East County San Diego, or simply have questions about the local real estate market, I’m always happy to be a resource.
Josh Kniffing
Keller Williams Realty REALTOR®
DRE# 02212139
619-922-9305






