Summer Knight Festival brings all genres of local talent to Escondida

What began as a community-driven podcast has grown into a full-fledged celebration of local talent and storytelling. Malachi Knight, creator of the “Life at Knight” podcast, is returning May 24 in a rural part of Escondida with the second annual Summer Knight festival, a free, family-friendly music and arts event that reflects his mission to uplift local voices and bring people together.

Knight, known on-air as Mr. Knight, launched his podcast in early 2023.. Knight said the mission of his podcast is to give locals of all backgrounds a voice, so long as they are willing to share their story with Knight. “We’re the people and the reason why this town is what it is,” Knight said. “We’re all capable of doing so much more, not just for ourselves, but for the town.”

The podcast’s mission also powers the vision behind the Summer Knight festival, now in its second year. “The podcast helped me connect with so many amazing people — musicians, artists, creatives of all kinds,” Knight said. “The festival is just another platform to showcase what they do. It’s for the people, by the people.”

Summer Knight festival is an all ages, family-friendly event that will feature a diverse lineup of local musicians, each bringing their own flavor to the stage, including classic rock, folk, soul, R&B, and hip hop – attendees can expect a vibrant blend of genres.

Featured performers include Rob Lopez & Full Circle, a soulful guitarist known for his dynamic live performances, and Jo Love, whose voice Knight describes as “like hearing a church bell that rings through the whole town.” Hip hop artists like Davon 19 and Animdope will bring lyrical energy to the stage.

“All of these artists are from here,” Knight said. “They’ve been doing their thing for a while, but now they’re stepping out and showing what they’ve got. Everyone on that list — I asked them personally. And I’m so grateful they said yes.”

The event takes place on a desertscape property near Escondida, an open expanse that Knight says has become a creative haven. “It’s very organic,” he describes. “It’s just open land, but we’re bringing it to life. People bring their lawn chairs, kick back, and enjoy the vibe.”

Thanks to generous property owners and volunteers, the land is transformed into a festival space — complete with stages, lighting, and vendor setups — without charging performers or participants.

“Nobody is getting paid,” Knight emphasizes. “Everyone is showing up and pulling together their resources to make something beautiful for this town.”

While music is the main event, Knight also curates a vendor market featuring local artists and small businesses. Vendors will offer food, shaved ice, crafts, and custom art.

Drugs, alcohol and weapons are prohibited to create a safe space for all attendees. But, in the spirit of old school desert parties, Knight advises guests to stay on the paved road and ignore GPS, which will take them on a treacherous backway.

His podcast is available on YouTube and Spotify, and can be followed on Instagram as @lifeatknight_ and on Facebook as Life At Kight