Chamber and Main Street leaders tout festivals, farmers markets and business supports at State of the City reception

Carol Knight, CEO of the Encinitas Chamber of Commerce, opened the reception portion of the State of the City, recognized sponsors and presented a short Chamber video that highlighted 2025 activities.

Knight listed major event and business-support highlights: the Chamber held 50 networking events with more than 1,000 participants, ran a senior lifestyle expo with 45 exhibitors, recognized 106 Rising Star students and awarded 17 scholarships, and said Oktoberfest drew about 10,000 people with 125 vendors.

Main Street association leaders described how markets and events drive downtown traffic. Nikki Hart, president of the Leucadia (Acadia) 101 Main Street Association, said the weekly farmers market brings roughly 120 small businesses and will move temporarily to Oakcrest when Palacky Central begins construction; she highlighted Taste of Leucadia on April 16 and logistics including shuttle service.

Evan Larkin, president of the Encinitas 101 Main Street Association, spoke about placemaking—murals, alley activation and kid-friendly installations—that he said create a 'halo effect' that encourages repeat visits and supports merchants; he described the association’s role as a liaison to city staff on permitting and business issues.

Renee Zau, president of the Cardiff 101 Main Street Association, reported growth at Cardiff's market, a new VIP experience for the 'dog days' event and plans for Taste of Cardiff in May.

The presentations emphasized local economic impact, short-term moves to support continuity when venues change and the Chamber’s continuing role as a connector between businesses, the city and visitors.