By Jacob Lopez
Today’s Events
If you’re looking for something to do today, El Monte has a few options to get out, connect, and enjoy local community energy:
- Community Meetups & Hobby Groups – Check out local meetups hosted via Meetup.com for informal gatherings like board games, cultural hangouts, and hobby-based meetups. These pop up often and are great for meeting new people in laid-back settings.
- Police Officers Association Events – The El Monte Police Officers Association regularly hosts community-facing events like Coffee with a Cop, Pancake Breakfasts, and 5Ks. Keep an eye out for announcements to join in a local event today or soon.
Upcoming Events to Mark Your Calendar
- “Night of the Jack” Trail – From September 25 through November 1, this immersive, one-mile trail walk features dazzling light displays and artistic installations—good for families or a fun evening outing.
- Tina’s Pumpkin Patch – Also running October 1 through November 1, the patch offers classic fall fun—including pony rides, petting zoos, and hayrides. Perfect for young children and those embracing autumn traditions.
- Her Moment Collective: Women’s Empowerment Gathering – Scheduled for an upcoming Saturday at 1:00 PM, this event at Britestar Tavern will gather speakers, workshops, and community networking for women interested in empowerment and leadership.
- Wistaria Festival Shuttle Services – If you plan to attend the Wistaria Festival, shuttle tickets are available; this helps with parking and traffic, making your visit smoother.
Regular Local Event Series & City Programs
Besides one-off events, El Monte offers ongoing programs and gatherings that are worth knowing about:
- The Parks & Recreation Division hosts special events like health fairs, sidewalk chalk art contests, youth parades, and community festivals year-round.
- The City’s CivicEngage calendar lists local city council meetings, public workshops, and citywide events weekly—useful for staying informed and participating in civic life.
Tips for Planning & Getting Involved
- Check official city calendars to verify times and locations—details can change.
- Follow flyers or local social media groups (Nextdoor groups, Facebook community pages) to hear about smaller, last-minute events.
- Register ahead when needed—many of the ticketed or limited-capacity events require reservations or ticket purchases in advance.
If you want, I can send you a curated list just for your neighborhood, or a printable calendar of what’s coming over the next month. Want me to put that together?