East County News Service
June 7, 2026 (San Diego County) — Westwind Brass is celebrating its 40th anniversary by bringing live music to the region, including a group of free outdoor concerts in East County, spanning the summer and extending into the holiday season.
“At Westwind Brass, we are committed to transforming the musical landscape with inspiring performances and impactful educational initiatives,” said Barry Toombs, executive director of the group. “Join us as we harness the power of live music to make a profound difference in our community and elevate the joy of music for everyone.”
The season’s schedule spans multiple scenic venues, including Mission Trails Regional Park, Old Poway Park and Mt. Helix Park.
The detailed lineup for the 2026 series from the local nonprofit will be:
On Independence Day, Saturday, July 4, from 2 to 4 p.m., Finest City Brass will kick off the Mission Trails Regional Park series with a patriotic outdoor concert. Attendees can celebrate the holiday against the stunning backdrop of San Diego’s natural landscape with a program of beloved American standards, rousing marches and Fourth of July favorites, while enjoying a picnic at 1 Father Junipero Serra Trail.
The following weekend, at 10 a.m. on Saturday, July 11, the Westwind Brass ensemble will take the stage at Old Poway Park at 14134 Midland Road for a Summer Family Concert. The morning performance will feature marches, pops and crowd favorites, complemented by on-site food trucks.
At 10 a.m. on Saturday, Aug. 22, Old Poway Park will again host a Summer Family Concert, this time featuring a Strings Ensemble under the open sky. The group is expected to perform set of classical and popular selections, offering a relaxed outing with food trucks on site.
Later that same afternoon, Aug. 22 from 2 to 4 p.m., Westwind Brass’s Virtuosi Strings will bring classical and contemporary string music to Mission Trails Regional Park. Seated on the lawn, guests can bring a blanket or low-back chair to enjoy string ensemble favorites.
A special evening concert is scheduled for 6:30 p.m., Saturday, Sept. 26, featuring “Sunrise Alpenglow: Sabor!” at Mission Trails Regional Park. As the light turns golden over the park, this sunset concert is expected to blend Latin, jazz, and world music from Manny Cepeda Strings & Brass, with attendees encouraged to arrive early for the best views.
From 2 to 4 p.m.. Saturday, Oct. 17, the Left Coast Woodwind Quintet will bring a program of autumnal and contemporary chamber music to Mission Trails. The concert will feature a blend of 20th-century classics and fresh new works.
The Mission Trails series finale will take place from 2 to 3:30 p.m.,, Saturday, Dec. 5, and will highlight a collaboration between Westwind Brass and the Patrick Henry High School Band. This family-friendly outdoor concert celebrates both the end of the year and the future of music in San Diego, showcasing professional musicians and student performers sharing the stage.
The last local Westwind Brass show of the season will be happening from 6 to 7:30 p.m., Saturday, Dec. 5, with Finest City Brass expected to perform at the festive Christmas on Mt. Helix event.