The evening of June 21, the summer solstice, will be an opportunity for visitors of all ages to enjoy an outing in the heart of San Gabriel’s historic Mission District. Circle the Square Summerfest is part of Make Music Los Angeles.
The Mission District is distinctive as a public square where sacred, civic, culture, and commerce meet, creating a beautiful backdrop for summer adventure. This free event will bring an eclectic audience and offer diverse attractions. The City of San Gabriel and the Mission District stakeholders invite first-time visitors to experience one of the most important places in California’s history. There will be live music, dancing, outdoor dining, tours of historical sites and architecture, art galleries, classic cars, artmaking and carnival games for young children.
Home to the City’s civic center, the Mission District houses City Hall, other public facilities such as the Mission Playhouse, Grapevine Arbor Park and Plaza Park. Information about the City’s Centennial, the San Gabriel Trench grade separation project to lower a 1.4 mile section of Union Pacific railroad track, and housing resources will be available.
Local restaurants will offer a variety of cuisines including authentic Chinese, Italian, Mexican, BBQ, and California Bistro. Participating restaurants and cafes include Mission 261, Lunas, Alexandra’s Table, Pizza Place California, Pulciano’s, Autunno, Love to Go, and Factory Tea Bar. The San Gabriel Chamber of Commerce will host a wine bar at the Mission Playhouse plaza.
HIGHLIGHTS
The Big Buck Breakdowners will create a foot-stomping ruckus of a good time with their variety of styles of traditional Appalachian music. Caller Susan Michaels will lead novice and experienced square dancers with footwork instructions to “honor their partners” and feel the old-time music.
Tony Wilson will accompany Jules White’s 1925 silent black and white comedy short film, “Hot Sports,” on the mighty Wurlitzer pipe organ at the Mission Playhouse. Join in the fun as the boys dressed in tuxedos head for the Plumber’s Ball!
Tour historic sites and architecture located in the heart of the Mission District. Points of interest include the Spanish Colonial style San Gabriel Mission, the 1927 Mission Revival Circle the Square Summerfest in San Gabriel’s Historic Mission District style Mission Playhouse built by John Steven McGroarty for his epic “Mission Play.” Also open will be the Ramona Museum of California History and Hayes House and Jail.
ART HAPPENINGS
Artists are invited to participate in a Plein Air Quick Draw Competition to be judged by prominent landscape artist Timothy Tien. Visitors can observe Southern California landscape artists at work and purchase their artworks at a silent auction. The San Gabriel Fine Arts Association is presenting a photography show of artist Brian Leng.
Ready Artwork will feature four artists. Historic San Gabriel photography exhibits will be on view at John L. Raya Insurance and Sawkins and Albert A.P.L.C. Rare and vintage Model “A” Fords from the 1920s and 30s. The San Gabriel Valley Model “A” Restorers Club will showcase their classic cars in front of the Mission Playhouse. Talk to the pros about preserving and restoring and learn about their historic design and engineering that revolutionized the automobile.
San Gabriel Valley Music Theatre presents highlights of Broadway hit shows for listening enjoyment. Meet and greet the performers and learn about upcoming events.
INFORMATION
The event will be held Thursday, June 21 from 5:00 to 9:00 PM at South Mission Drive and Santa Anita Street, San Gabriel 91776
Free parking at Mission Playhouse, Mission Drive Park-n-Ride, San Gabriel Mission, and
City Hall, with bike valet service at Plaza Park
For more information on Circle the Square Summerfest in San Gabriel’s Historic Mission District, contact Robin Scherr, Economic Development Manager, City of San Gabriel at [email protected] or 626-308-2806, x5123.
