See you in Borrego Springs!

Borrego Springs, CA The Anza-Borrego Desert Natural History Association (ABDNHA) will host the 2026 Borrego Home & Garden Tour on Saturday, March 14, 2026, from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. The public is invited to explore four private homes and gardens at their own pace in Borrego Springs. This annual tour is a fundraiser benefiting ABDNHA, the educational 501(c)(3) nonprofit that supports interpretation, education, and stewardship connected to the Anza-Borrego Desert region. Event details Event: 2026 Borrego Home & Garden Tour Date: Saturday, March 14, 2026 Time: 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Format: Self-guided tour of four private homes and gardens Tickets $30 General Public $24 ABDNHA Members $20 ABDNHA Volunteers Early purchase discount: Buy by March 8 and save $2 per ticket . How to purchase Tickets are available online at abdnha.org/gardentour and in person at the ABDNHA Desert Nature Center , 652 Palm Canyon Drive, Borrego Springs . Questions: (760) 767-3098 Important guidelines Tickets are non-refundable . For guest safety and property rules, no strollers or dogs are permitted. About ABDNHA The Anza-Borrego Desert Natural History Association (ABDNHA) is a nonprofit organization that supports education and interpretation in and around Anza-Borrego Desert State Park through programs, exhibits, and community engagement. Media Contact: ABDNHA Desert Nature Center 652 Palm Canyon Drive, Borrego Springs, CA (760) 767-3098 abdnha.org/gardentour

Roadrunner Club Association Benefit The Roadrunner Club Association’s 38th annual Senior Center Benefit golf tournament raised $33,000 for the Borrego Springs Youth and Seniors Center , according to Executive Director Teresa West . West described the turnout as strong early in the day, writing that as the sun came up she was “surprised at how many participants were out playing golf.” She called it “an amazing sight” and said it “touched my heart.” Largest single fundraiser of the year West said the golf tournament is the largest single fundraiser of the year for the Borrego Springs Youth and Seniors Center. She credited golfers, sponsors, and volunteers for making the event possible. “To all the golfers who participated in the tournament I want to say thank you,” West wrote, adding thanks to those who “sponsored a hole, put up signs, handed out food and drinks, took pictures and did all the preparation behind the scenes.” Services supported by the fundraiser West highlighted how the Senior Center supports older adults in the community by providing “nutritious and healthy meals” for homebound seniors, activities at the Seniors Community Center, and a medical loan closet that offers free medical equipment . She also noted the importance of the Borrego Springs Children’s Center , which provides childcare for children from birth to age 5. West said that without the Children’s Center, “many of our local parents would not be able to pursue their chosen career paths,” and children could miss an early start on “social-emotional development.” Message to the community West closed with a message of gratitude from the center’s team: “We can’t say thank you enough,” she wrote. “We truly appreciate each one of you.” Learn More About Borrego Springs

The BADWATER® Salton Sea ultra running event returns Saturday–Sunday, April 18–19, 2026 , with a listed start time of 6:30 AM and a Borrego Springs audience-friendly stop point at Borrego Springs Resort . This is a team race for duos or trios who run together for the full course (it’s not a relay). The route spans 81 miles (130 km) from Salton City —about 234 feet (71 m) below sea level —to Palomar Mountain at roughly 5,500 feet (1,676 m) , with over 9,000 feet (2,740 m) of total climbing. For locals and visitors watching in the Borrego area: about eight miles of the course cut through Anza-Borrego Desert State Park , using a single-track section between near Borrego Springs and near Ranchita , making the overall route a mix of road and trail . Organizers note this is the 13th edition , capped at 100 runners . If you’re in Borrego Springs, this is one of those rare mornings when you can watch a world-class endurance event pass through the desert landscape you already know—then climb all the way to the cool air of Palomar. Expect a moving pack of two- and three-person teams running side-by-side , plus support vehicles and race staff along the road portions. For updates, photos, and official race info, follow BADWATER® on Facebook and Instagram , or check the organizer’s event page .

March 1, 2026 (Borrego Springs) -- The Borrego Art Institute is marking the 20th anniversary of its Annual Plein Air Invitational this month. Featuring 16 nationally recognized artists and a series of public competitions, the month-long programming will culminate in the "Art for Everyone" spring fundraiser and auction on April 4. The invitational begins Monday, March 2, and runs through Saturday, March 7. During the Plein Air Invitational, the BAI Gallery will offer extended hours from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Regular operating hours resume Sunday, March 8. Participating artists will paint "en plein air" (outdoors) at various regional sites, including Coyote Canyon and central Borrego Springs. Completed works will be installed in the BAI Gallery daily and made available for public purchase. The 2026 artist roster includes Geoff Allen, Marcia Ballowe, Mark Fehlman, Debra Huse, Peggy Immel, Chuck Kovacic, Paul Kratter, Margaret Larlham, Jason Li, Carolyn Lord, Jim McVicker, Lynn Mehta, Stock Schlueter, Jeff Sewell, Lisa Skelly and Toni Williams. Scheduled public events are as follow: Quick Draw Competition: 8:30 to 10 a.m., Wednesday, March 4 at Rams Hill. Artists must complete a work on-site within 90 minutes. Juried by Jeanne Plekon. Awards Ceremony: 3 p.m., Saturday, March 7 at the BAI Gallery. Awards will be presented at 4:30 p.m., by juror Natasha Isenhour. ArtWalk: 5 to 7 p.m., Saturday, March 7. The full exhibition will remain on display at the gallery through April 26. On Saturday, April 4, the BAI will hold its annual spring fundraiser from 4 to 7 p.m. at Studio West. The "Art for Everyone" Open House is free to the community and serves as a primary benefit for the institute’s programming. The event features a silent auction including works from various private collections. Additionally, the gallery will showcase 65 pieces created by local high school students. All proceeds from these specific sales will be paid directly to the student artists. The evening includes a live raffle, appetizers and wine service provided by Stay Classy Selections. For more information on the Plein Air Invitational or the April 4 fundraiser, visit borregoartinstitute.org .

Walk World Labyrinth Day World Labyrinth Day is a worldwide invitation to slow down and choose peace—one quiet step at a time. In Borrego Springs, you can take part by walking the outdoor labyrinth at St. Barnabas Episcopal Church on May 2, 2026, anytime dusk till dawn. Make it a full Borrego Springs morning: arrive early, walk at your own pace, pause in the center, sign the guest book, take a photo, and then head out for breakfast. Come with a friend, make it a date, or come solo for a little space and stillness. Event details World Labyrinth Day in Borrego Springs Date: May 2, 2026 Time: Dusk till dawn (self-guided) Location: St. Barnabas Episcopal Church, 2680 Country Club Dr, Borrego Springs, CA 92004 All are welcome • No appointment necessary What a labyrinth is A labyrinth is not a maze. There’s one clear path in and the same path back out. People walk labyrinths as a practice of reflection, prayer, gratitude, and quiet listening—an easy way to step out of the noise for a few minutes and reset. Make a day of it in Borrego Springs Go early for cooler temps and a calmer start Bring a friend—or come alone and treat it as personal time Make it a date: walk first, then grab breakfast together Take a photo of your walk (or the desert sky overhead) Sign the guest book to mark your visit and add your name to the day Share your photos online to encourage others to take part A few simple tips Wear comfortable shoes and bring water Walk slowly—there’s no “right” speed When you reach the center, pause, breathe, pray, or reflect Give others space and let the experience stay quiet and unhurried Share your World Labyrinth Day If you post photos, include #StBarnabasBorregoSprings so others can find it and plan their own walk. For updates and details, visit www.stbarnabasborregosprings.com  Learn More About Borrego Springs

Easter Sunrise Service Borrego Springs The Easter Sunrise Service in Borrego Springs is an annual sunrise gathering that brings people together for a simple, meaningful start to Easter morning. This post covers the essentials—who hosts it, where it takes place, and a few practical tips so you can plan ahead each year. Since the service is timed to sunrise, the date changes with Easter, but the tradition stays the same: an early morning moment of faith, hope, and community in the desert. Date and time Sunday, April 5, 2026 6:00 AM (Sunrise) 

Desert Lovers & Company - 583 Palm Canyon Dr Suite D, Borrego Springs, CA 92004

BSCCA 50th anniversary celebration at BSPAC with the Waddington Brothers Borrego Springs Community Concert Association (BSCCA) celebrated 50 years of live concerts on Thursday, February 26, 2026, at the Borrego Springs Performing Arts Center. The evening began at 6:00 PM with cake and sparkling cider, then the theater filled for the 7:00 PM concert by the Waddington Brothers. Earlier the same day, the group also performed a student concert at BSPAC for Borrego Springs High School.

Free juried art show at Christmas Circle

Waddington Brothers at BSPAC Borrego Springs High School students spent part of the school day at the Borrego Springs Performing Arts Center (BSPAC) for a live performance by the Waddington Brothers. This Borrego Springs Community Concert Association student concert paired a professional theater experience with a clear educational message about discipline, entrepreneurship, and creative careers. Students did not just hear music. They experienced live acoustic instruments in a real theater, watched professional musicians interact on stage, and listened as the band spoke honestly about building a life in music. A Theater Experience During School Hours For many students, walking into BSPAC during the school day shifts learning into a different space. They are not watching a video or listening through headphones. They are hearing sound resonate in the room and seeing how musicians communicate without a script. As the band shared, “Music is a huge part of our life. But ultimately, it’s communication.” They encouraged students to “listen with intent,” explaining that sitting down and truly listening to music can be revealing. That message reframed the concert as more than entertainment. It became an exercise in focus and engagement. About the Waddington Brothers The Waddington Brothers are four siblings from rural North Dakota, a region better known for ranch country than bluegrass scenes. Their sound blends traditional bluegrass with western cowboy influences reminiscent of The Sons of the Pioneers. They have played together all their lives and launched the band professionally in 2019. The lineup includes: Seth on guitar and lead vocals Ethan on banjo Jacob on mandolin Job on bass In 2023, they earned first place at the SPBGMA International Bluegrass Band Competition in Nashville, gaining national attention. They have since signed with the Live on Stage agency in Nashville and are touring more extensively across the United States. During the concert, they explained that there are “a lot of different ways to make music,” describing touring, recording sessions, commercial work, and side businesses that help support a music career. “You have to find a market that you fit in,” they told students, emphasizing persistence and adaptability. What Students Learned Between songs, the Waddington Brothers explained what it takes to work as professional musicians. They talked about long travel days, the cost of touring, and why many musicians also do other work so they can keep playing and keep improving. Their takeaway for students was straightforward: building skill takes practice and consistency, and creative careers still require planning, reliability, and strong work habits.

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By Dennis Mammana Week of March 1-7, 2026 Attention, night owls and insomniacs! The sky show this week is just for you! Much of North America is about to see the moon experience one of nature's most beautiful sky shows: a total lunar eclipse. A lunar eclipse occurs when the full moon slips into the Earth's shadow far out in space, either partially or completely, and that's just what will happen during the wee hours of March 3. Skywatchers throughout North America will see the start of this eclipse (weather permitting, of course), but depending on where you live, you may see only a portion of the sky show. In general, the farther west you live, the more of the eclipse you will see before the moon sets behind the western horizon. The eclipse begins at 12:44 a.m. PST (3:44 a.m. EST), when the moon enters the Earth's light outer shadow (known as the penumbra), but this shadow is so thin that no one will notice a darkening of the moon's appearance. Within an hour or so, that will change significantly. As the moon approaches the dark inner shadow of the Earth (known as the umbra), skywatchers will notice the eastern side of the moon beginning to darken slightly. The real show begins at 1:50 a.m. PST (4:50 a.m. EST) when the moon officially enters the umbra. No one gazing skyward will have any doubt that a "bite" has been taken out of the moon — a bite that will grow larger with each passing minute. For the next hour or so, the moon will dim as it slips more deeply into our planet's umbra, until 3:04 a.m. PST (6:04 a.m. EST) when it's completely engulfed and the total eclipse begins. Unfortunately, those in the far eastern part of North America may miss this since the moon will lie quite close to (or even below) the western horizon. During the total phase, the moon will take on a dim coppery hue. This occurs because sunlight passing through our atmosphere is reddened and bent inward toward the darkened surface of the eclipsed moon, now suspended eerily against the stars of Leo, the lion. Only those viewing from the Midwest to the West Coast will see mid-eclipse, which occurs at 3:33 a.m. PST (5:33 a.m. CST). Those in the Midwest may miss the end of totality at 4:02 a.m. PST (6:02 a.m. CST), however, as the moon will be setting in the west. The entire event will end at 5:17 a.m. PST (4:17 a.m. MST) with the moon approaching the western horizon for viewers in western North America. Unlike an eclipse of the sun, a lunar eclipse is perfectly safe to view without protective filters. Your eyes are all you need to enjoy the show, but you'll have even more fun viewing through binoculars or a small telescope. If the sky is cloudy that morning, or if you live where the eclipse won't be visible, you can watch a livestream of the sky show online. Visit timeanddate.com and click on "Sun, Moon & Space" at the top to find details for your location, as well as links to view the eclipse live online. Visit Dennis Mammana at dennismammana.com. To read features by other Creators Syndicate writers and cartoonists, visit the Creators Syndicate website at www.creators.com.  Learn More About Borrego Springs

Borrego Springs continues to expand its wellness community with the arrival of Mountain Healing Acupuncture, led by Lara Koljonen, a dedicated practitioner of holistic medicine since 2008. Lara brings more than 15 years of experience in acupuncture and integrative care, focusing on empowering patients to better understand their bodies and take an active role in their health. Her philosophy centers on the idea that life is like a garden. The more we care for it, the more vibrant and resilient it becomes. Through education, treatment, and ongoing support, she helps patients cultivate long-term wellness. Her approach blends eastern and western methods, bridging traditional acupuncture with modern health understanding. Treatments are designed to support pain relief, stress reduction, balance, and overall vitality in a safe and nurturing environment. Mountain Healing Acupuncture emphasizes continued learning and integrating new therapies to best serve patients. Lara works to both heal and educate, encouraging clients to build sustainable habits that strengthen their physical and emotional well-being. Contact: Mountain Healing Acupuncture 619.980.0745 Borrego Springs continues to grow as a destination for wellness, and the addition of a long-practicing acupuncturist adds another valuable resource for those seeking holistic support close to home. 

East County Magazine Highlights Borrego and Backcountry Loop East County Magazine recently published a feature on a full day scenic drive through San Diego County’s backcountry, with Borrego Springs at the center of the experience The article outlines a 12 hour loop connecting desert, mountain, and lake destinations, positioning Borrego as a key stop within a broader regional itinerary. Destinations Featured in the Article Borrego Springs and Anza-Borrego Desert State Park Anza-Borrego Desert State Park Visitor Center, 200 Palm Canyon Drive Christmas Circle visitor information location, 587 Palm Canyon Drive Wildflower viewing along Henderson Canyon Road Hiking areas including: Borrego Palm Canyon Coyote Canyon Hellhole Canyon The Slot Font’s Point Wind Caves Elephant Tree Trail Yaqui Well Trail Cactus Loop Nature Trail ‘Ehmuu-Morteros Trail Public Art and Local Highlights Ricardo Breceda metal sculptures in Borrego Springs The Pilot House near Borrego Valley Airport Christmas Circle K-RAM 90.5 FM Resorts and Dining La Casa del Zorro Backcountry Route Stops Dudley’s Bakery in Santa Ysabel Ranchita and the Rancheti Yeti statue Montezuma Grade, S22 scenic descent Ocotillo Wells State Vehicular Recreation Area Julian and Banner Grade Julian Pie Company Mom’s Pie House Eagle Mining Company Menghini Winery Historic Julian downtown Banner Ranch Lake Cuyamaca The Pub at Lake Cuyamaca Wildlife viewing including pelicans, heron, vultures, and deer Why This Coverage Matters The feature presents Borrego Springs as a central anchor within a larger backcountry journey. It connects wildflowers, desert art, scenic mountain drives, Julian’s historic district, and Lake Cuyamaca into one enjoyable day trip. For full route details, travel logistics, safety tips, and seasonal notes, read the complete article published by East County Magazine. Learn More About Borrego Springs

The Borrego Springs ArtWalk is held the first Saturday of each month, November through May, from 5–7 PM.

PEG LEG SMITH LIAR’S CONTEST Since 1916 To Date The next saga of the Peg Leg Smith Liar’s Contest is a month away, Saturday March 7th . Location American Legion Post #853 4515 Borrego Springs Road Borrego Springs, Ca. Date March 7th, 2026 Time Dusk Who Thomas Long Smith , miner, horse thief, Indian fighter, and notorious liar. Google him for details or YouTube for videos. What A 100 plus year old event , a perpetuation of prevarication, where participants at the event manufacture the truth or a lie about a real person, Thomas Long Smith , aka Peg Leg Smith , who allegedly found, then lost, a gold mine in the Borrego Valley back in the mid-1800’s. He existed. The mine is what is in question. Why Must be fun. It’s been held here in the Valley nearly every year, give or take a few world wars and related interferences…… since 1916 . Rules None. Just make up a lie about him, or not even him—most anything—that is interesting, logical, entertaining, relatively short ( 10 minutes or less ). If it is good and you just show up and lie, you will receive a trophy (recycled) and a nice certificate good enough to frame . Judging There are three judges , all veterans of the event, all with 20 or more years doing so. The Chief Judge , me, has been judging since 1982 (no remuneration, free, poor judgement on my part). Winners are not chosen on bribery or status, but on three major categories : Quality of the lie ( 10 points max ) Performance in presenting it ( 10 points max ) Garb, stunts, random foolishness, helpers, music, or whatever ( 5 points max ) The last five points only separate the scores, as even last-minute sign-ups during the event are competitive. If we have children under 10 years of age , we will have a child judging category as well. Audience & Participation It is a liar’s contest. We can have 50, 100, 150 or more in the audience, but without liars…there is no contest . Sign up at the event Viewers bring a folding chair Bring non-alcoholic beverages (the Legion has a full bar) Sit outside near the campfire (held outside always—dress accordingly) Services Bathrooms, bar, and kitchen courtesy of the Legion and volunteers. Dinner is available—might be pulled pork again by popular demand , or not. It is a liar’s contest. Actually, I might be lying to you now. The Only Truth It will occur rain or shine , at the date and time , at the Legion . Bring a Lie It can be a short one, bad one, dumb one about anything you want to lie about—or even the truth is welcome. Just say his name, then run off in any direction you lie about best. You probably won’t know anyone there except a few friends that might have come along, so you can’t be embarrassed in front of strangers. Prepare to lie. We ALWAYS need liars . Even bad ones. Again, Google the contest to learn more. It is always fun and out of doors. What could be better than that? Oh, free as well. Jim McKenna Learn More About Borrego Springs

Paintings & Private Collection Nita Wipper Paintings & Her Private Art Collection exhibit extended through March 8. The Gallery at The Palms has extended Nita Wipper Paintings & Her Private Art Collection through Sunday, March 8 . The popularity and interest from visitors have called for the extra week of viewing. Stop by and visit The Gallery which is located at The Palms at Indian Head , 2220 Hoberg Road. Open every day 9:30 am - 8:30 pm . Info: 760.443.3300 houseofborregosprs@sbcglobal.net Learn More About Borrego Springs

Una Noche Mexicana Gala Weekend Una Noche Mexicana is coming to the Borrego Springs Performing Arts Center for a festive weekend of mariachi, live music, and ballet folklórico . It’s a gala-style benefit concert that brings the community together while celebrating culture in Borrego Springs. Proceeds support scholarships that go directly to qualified Borrego Springs High School students. Tickets are limited, so buy early , and if you or your business want to make a bigger impact, consider becoming a sponsor . Side note: Let’s show up strong for OLAX. They’re doing important work in Borrego Springs, and a lot of what they do happens quietly behind the scenes. Yes, they need more support. Event Details Event: Una Noche Mexicana, Gala Event (Benefit Concert) Presented by: Organización LatinX de Borrego Springs (OLAX) Showtimes Saturday, March 14 at 6:00 PM Sunday, March 15 at 3:30 PM Location Borrego Springs Performing Arts Center 580 Palm Canyon Drive, Borrego Springs What You Will Experience Una Noche Mexicana is a celebration of Mexican cultural traditions on stage, featuring: Mariachi Live music Ballet folklórico Expect an upbeat, family-friendly program with performances that highlight rhythm, storytelling through dance, and the energy of live musicians. Where to buy tickets & explore sponsorship www.olaxdeborrego.org Why It Matters Locally The event benefits culture and education in Borrego Springs. Supporting nights like this helps keep community-based arts and educational efforts visible and funded, while bringing people together for something fun and meaningful. Contact info@olaxdeborrego.org OLAX 501(c)(3): 93-2954175

BY: Colt Knedler Rams Hill Golf Club

Barbra Tribute Borrego Springs

Borrego Olive Oil Co now has a storefront in The Mall in Borrego Springs. Find EVOO, balsamics, local olive-oil skincare, and specialty drinks. Borrego Olive Oil Co in Borrego Springs Borrego Olive Oil Co now has a cozy storefront in The Mall (Westside) in Borrego Springs, making it easier to pick up their California-harvested extra virgin olive oils and aged balsamic vinegars from Modena, Italy. Where to Find the Store You’ll find Borrego Olive Oil Co at The Mall (Westside), 587 Palm Canyon Drive , near the Borrego Springs Mural and across from Borrego Outfitters ( Suite 219 ).

Robert R. Landry at Studio 628 Studio 628 is hosting a new exhibit featuring artist Robert R. Landry , with an opening reception on March 7 from 4–7 pm . Here are the essentials—where to go, when to come, and what to expect—plus a quick note about the last Studio 628 exhibit for anyone following the gallery’s seasonal shows. Event Details Opening Reception: March 7, 4–7 pm Location: Studio 628 Address: 628 Palm Canyon Drive, Borrego Springs, CA What to Expect Landry’s work (as shown in the exhibit artwork) is abstract , with strong shapes and bold color. If you like modern art that focuses on design, texture, and composition rather than realism, this exhibit is a solid stop. Last Exhibit at Studio 628 The last exhibit at Studio 628 was Más Y Más , curated by Gary Henderson . It featured assemblage artwork by Robert Wright and archival photography by Wil Gardner , with an emphasis on texture, structure, and visual patterns. That exhibit reflects what Studio 628 often brings to Borrego Springs—contemporary work in a small gallery setting that’s easy to visit. Plan Your Visit Studio 628 is right on Palm Canyon Drive, making it an easy stop if you’re already exploring Borrego Springs. Drop in during the reception window to see the new work and meet others from the local arts community.