Named for the County Supervisor who supported many park projects during her 28 years in office, Dianne Jacob Lakeside Equestrian Park spans 13.88 acres and was designed to accommodate equestrian and livestock events as well as farmer’s markets, contests and other special occasions. The site features a large covered arena, an open arena, livestock corrals, a concession building with banquet hall, a maintenance building, a volunteer pad, restrooms, a shade pavilion, picnic tables, an open parking lot and both ADA parking and access. 

VIEW/SHARE THE FLYER FOR THE GRAND OPENING

The grand opening will be formatted like an outdoor open house. Attractions and tables will be set up around the property so guests can tour it at their leisure:

• The County of San Diego Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR) will host an information table with giveaway items, along with a table featuring the youth-focused Nature Discovery Program, and a wildlife education station with taxidermy and other animal artifacts.
  
• Area businesses such as Partners Therapeutic Horsemanship, Circle TLC Ranch and Sunshine Ranch Therapeutic Riding will provide information about programs, offerings and success stories.
  
• The Live Well San Diego Bus is bringing resource experts to provide materials and assistance related to free public services.
• Kids (and adults) over the age of 10 can test their skills on a rock-climbing wall.  
• A fire engine and ambulance will be parked on site for photos, thanks to the uniformed crew at Lakeside Fire Protection District.   
• The first 100 guests will receive DPR-hosted snacks and non-alcoholic beverages plus complimentary sweets provided by Mary's Donuts. 

Structured Activities:

• At 1 p.m., head to Supervisor Jacob's namesake gate for a ribbon-cutting photo.
• At around 1:20 p.m., the program will move under the shelter of the covered arena for the entrance of the Color Guard, Rodeo Queens and a formal welcome and commemoration.
• After the program, stay seated for equestrian entertainment in the arena! Though subject to change, acts may include reining, jumping, dressage and barrel racing.     
• Later on, at 2:30 p.m., look for the DPR booths where Ranger Christian will bring out his raptor ambassadors for a very special Birds of Prey workshop.  

This is a free event and all ages are welcome. In case you missed the flyer, you can view it HERE.

Questions? Please contact Jessica Geiszler at jessica.geiszler@sdcounty.ca.gov.

Park Operation: Dianne Jacob Lakeside Equestrian Park is near completion and ready to open for public events. The contract to manage the facility and all operations following the grand opening has been awarded to Equine Event Services. DPR staff from nearby  El Monte County Park will serve as liaisons between Equine Event Services and the County.    

Why such short notice for this event? The holidays are here, and December can be a challenging time to host an event. However, working with the construction team, members of the Lakeside community, business leaders, local dignitaries and our new park operator, project managers were able to reach consensus on a time and date just after the Thanksgiving 2023 holiday. It's a large property with many moving parts, but within 2 weeks they've prepared an event that is designed to be fun, inviting, informational and a nice tribute to park ambasadors.