SUMMER 2026
A WORD FROM OUR GENERAL MANAGER, DEANNA MACKEY
This year marks an important milestone for our nation: 250 years since 13 British colonies claimed their independence and stood united for the values of freedom, liberty and democracy. In light of this milestone, KPBS is curating an America250 collection of stories, programs and events that help us reflect upon the ideals we aspire for the next generation. I invite you to visit kpbs.org/america250.
We are also coming up on the one-year anniversary of the day Congress eliminated funding to public media. I am frequently asked how KPBS is doing in light of the loss of federal funding. I am pleased to share that we have 20,000 new members who have joined us since July 2025. This amazing member growth, combined with increased donations from longtime supporters, filled our budget gap through June 2026. Beginning July 1, we start over again. However, I am optimistic that both our longtime and new members believe in the same thing — KPBS provides an essential service and it must continue.
Your support ensures KPBS continues to give voice to local stories that might otherwise go untold. When you donate to KPBS, you protect your story. We do this work together. Thank you for being our partner.
Double the Drama
Don’t miss these back-to-back episodes filled with powerful stories of change, connection, and courage.
“Patience” returns for Season 2, taking viewers back to York’s Criminal Records Office, where her instincts shine. A new boss and relationship with Elliot blur boundaries, as mounting pressure tests her in unexpected ways.
Meanwhile, in the final season of “MASTERPIECE’s: Grantchester,” Alphy and Geordie face life-changing decisions as mysteries unfold and their partnership is tested in an emotional conclusion filled with love, loss and redemption.
“Patience” premieres Sunday, June 14 at 8 p.m. on KPBS-TV.
“Grantchester” premieres Sunday, June 14 at 9 p.m. on KPBS-TV.
Watch live or stream anytime with KPBS+.
America at 250
Celebrate America’s Independence and 250th anniversary with two extraordinary specials that honor the nation’s history, spirit and enduring promise. “America Made in Virginia: 250 Years Together” premieres live from Colonial Williamsburg on July 4, bringing viewers a powerful national celebration rooted in the birthplace of American democracy. Through music, performances and historical reflection, this two-hour event explores the people, ideals, and defining moments that shaped the United States. With Virginia’s pivotal role at the center, the program invites audiences to connect the nation’s founding to its future. Watch live Saturday, July 4 at 7 p.m. on KPBS-TV or stream anytime with KPBS+.
Then, continue the celebration with “A Capitol Fourth,” America’s beloved Independence Day tradition broadcast live from the West Lawn of the U.S. Capitol. This star-studded event features patriotic music, spectacular performances, tributes to service and a dazzling fireworks display over Washington, D.C. Backed by the National Symphony Orchestra, U.S. Army Band and renowned guest performers, this annual celebration unites millions in a shared tribute to freedom and community. “A Capitol Fourth” captures the joy, pride and pageantry of America’s birthday. Premieres Saturday, July 4 at 9 p.m. and again at 10:30 p.m. on KPBS-TV. Watch live or stream anytime with KPBS+.
America’s Untold Revolution
As America approaches its 250th anniversary, KPBS presents two thought-provoking programs that expand our understanding of the nation’s founding.
In “Historic Places with Elsa Sevilla,” viewers are invited to reconsider 1775 from a West Coast perspective. This special episode explores how Indigenous resistance in Southern California unfolded alongside the American Revolution on the East Coast, drawing striking contrasts between two struggles against colonial power. By examining the experiences of Kumeyaay and other Native peoples confronting Spanish invasion, Elsa Sevilla reframes early American history with San Diego at the center. Through rich storytelling and historical analysis, the episode offers a deeper, more inclusive lens on America’s origins. Premieres Thursday, June 11 at 9 p.m. on KPBS-TV. Watch live or stream anytime with KPBS+.
“Declarations: Black Americans and the Revolutionary War” reveals the overlooked stories of Black Americans — enslaved and free — who fought, resisted and pursued liberty during the Revolutionary era. Through personal stories of courage, legal battles, military service and resilience, the documentary challenges traditional narratives and highlights how Black Americans shaped the nation’s struggle for independence. Premieres Monday, June 29 at 10 p.m. on KPBS-TV. Watch live or stream anytime with KPBS+.
River of Life
Carving through canyons and deserts, the Colorado River is the lifeblood of “The American Southwest” — but its future is far from certain. As water demand rises and dams reshape its natural flow, the balance between people, wildlife and the environment grows more fragile.
Along this iconic river, extraordinary stories unfold. Beavers reshape the landscape, elk call across open valleys and condors soar above ancient cliffs — each playing a vital role in a delicate ecosystem. At the same time, Indigenous voices bring a deeper understanding of the land, its history and what’s at stake.
Narrated by environmental advocate Quannah Chasinghorse, “The American Southwest” is a visually stunning and thought-provoking journey that reveals both the beauty of this region and the urgent need to protect it for generations to come.
“The American Southwest” airs Wednesday, July 8 at 10 p.m. on KPBS-TV. Watch live or stream anytime with KPBS+.
Join the KPBS Producers Club
For the first time in 50 years, KPBS is without federal funding — making community support more important than ever. Producers Club members are our most generous annual supporters, giving $1,500 or more to strengthen local public broadcasting. Your support helps expand programs, serve our community and safeguard independent, community-powered journalism in our region.
As a Producers Club member, you’ll enjoy a deeper connection to KPBS, including invitations to special events, behind-the-scenes tours and early updates on upcoming programs. Most importantly, you’ll join a community that believes in the power of trusted journalism, inspiring storytelling and education for all.
Did you know? You can make a Producers Club-level gift through your IRA and have it count toward your Required Minimum Distribution.
To join or learn more, visit www.kpbs.org/pc or contact Niru Ramachandran at 619-594-2028 or [email protected].
Finding Common Ground
In “Independent Lens: Flood,” filmmaker Katy Scoggin returns home to California‘s Inland Empire to reconnect with her estranged father, an evangelical science teacher who rejects evolution. As she documents his final year in the classroom, their differences spark tension — but also unexpected understanding.
With honesty and wry humor, “Flood” delves into faith, family and the challenge of bridging deeply held beliefs. It’s a powerful, personal story about listening, connection and finding common ground in a divided world.
“Independent Lens: Flood” premieres Monday, July 13 at 10 p.m. on KPBS-TV. Watch live or stream anytime with KPBS+.
Plan Today, Protect Tomorrow
Take control of your future and protect the people you love with our new, no-cost will-making service. KPBS is proud to introduce an enhanced planned giving website — kpbslegacy.org — designed to remove barriers to estate planning.
This secure, easy-to-use tool allows you to create a legal will in about 20 minutes, completely free of charge. Whether you want to provide for your family or support public media, it offers a simple way to ensure your wishes are honored — without the usual legal hurdles.
Your privacy is our priority. We believe that your personal legacy should remain private, which is why our new platform is built with a privacy-first approach. KPBS never has access to your financial details or the contents of your will. If you log in through the KPBS portal, we only receive basic information — your name, state, and start date — so you remain fully in control of your data.
Visit kpbslegacy.org to secure your peace of mind and help sustain the future of KPBS for generations to come. For questions, contact Brenda Jones at [email protected] or (619) 594-8787.
Summer Symphony
Experience the magic of “Great Performances: Vienna Philharmonic Summer Night Concert,” an open-air performance set in the breathtaking gardens of Austria’s Schönbrunn Palace. Each year, this world-renowned event brings together audiences from around the globe for an evening of classical masterpieces performed with passion and artistry.
Led by guest conductor Lorenzo Viotti and featuring vocal soloist Bryn Terfel, the orchestra delivers a captivating program filled with elegance and emotion. Whether a lifelong fan or new listener, this concert offers a truly enchanting musical journey.
“Great Performances: Vienna Philharmonic Summer Night Concert” airs Friday, August 28 at 8 p.m. on KPBS-2 and Sunday, August 30 at 6 p.m. on KPBS-TV. Stream anytime beginning August 28 on KPBS+.
‘Great Performances: Vienna Philharmonic Summer Night Concert’
Beyond the Stars
At the dawn of a new global space race, the question wasn’t just how we would get there — but who would get there first. Nations and private pioneers were pushing boundaries, racing to return to the moon and venture even farther, unlocking discoveries that could reshape our future.
But behind every launch are human stories of courage and progress. A mother leaving behind her one-year-old to become the first woman in space. A historic journey from slavery to the stars, as the first African American astronaut represents generations of change.
Breakthrough engineering meets relentless ambition in “Once Upon a Time in Space,” revealing the people, risks and rivalries behind humanity’s next giant leap.
“Once Upon a Time in Space” airs Tuesday, July 14 at 9 p.m. on KPBS-TV.
Watch live or stream anytime with KPBS+.
Give Your Car a New Purpose
You may think your car has reached the end of the road, but good things don’t have to end! Turn your vehicle to support KPBS by donating your car, truck, boat or motorcycle.
It’s simple and the tow is free, and we take care of everything from start to finish. Call 877-572-7227 or visit www.kpbs.org/car to donate your vehicle today.
Sponsor Message
North Coast Repertory Theatre Unveils Its Dynamic 2026-2027 Season
North Coast Repertory Theatre in Solana Beach is thrilling audiences with its ambitious 2026-2027 season — eight productions spanning world premieres, West Coast debuts, a Broadway hit and an intimate beloved musical revival.
The season launches with the West Coast Premiere of “Goodnight, Oscar” (Sept. 16–Oct. 11), followed by the Broadway hit “The Cottage” (Oct. 28–Nov. 22). The holidays bring the world premiere play-with-music “How to Write a Holiday” (Dec. 16–27 which is not included in the subscription package.) The new year kicks off with the West Coast Premiere of Steven Dietz’s thriller “Vineland Place” (Jan. 6–31), then George Bernard Shaw’s classic comedy “Misalliance” (Feb. 24–Mar. 21). Spring delivers an intimate revival of “My Fair Lady” (Apr. 14–May 9), followed by the San Diego Premiere of “Ken Ludwig’s Dear Jack, Dear Louise” (Jun. 2–27). The season closes with the world premiere musical “Gene Wilder’s My French Whore” (Jul. 14–Aug. 8).
Subscriptions and tickets are available at northcoastrep.org or by calling (858) 481-1055.
Sponsor Message
Meet Pauline.
At 82, Pauline has always been fiercely independent. But after a recent fall, everyday tasks like grocery shopping and cooking became overwhelming. Her daughter, who lives in Los Angeles, worried constantly: Is Mom eating? Is she safe? Is someone checking in? Is she lonely?
That’s when Meals on Wheels San Diego County stepped in.
Now, a friendly volunteer delivers fresh, nutritious meals to Pauline’s door and something just as important: a daily safety check-in and warm conversation. For Pauline, it’s nourishment and connection. For her daughter, it’s peace of mind knowing someone is there.
Across San Diego County, thousands of seniors and disabled veterans face similar challenges. Meals on Wheels San Diego County is more than a meal, it’s a lifeline that helps seniors remain safe, healthy and independent in their own homes.
If you’re caring for an aging loved one or want to make a difference in someone’s life, Meals on Wheels San Diego County is here to help.
Learn more about receiving meals, volunteering or supporting your neighbors at sandiegomealsonwheels.org.
(619) 594-6983 or (888) 399-5727; [email protected]
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KPBS channel info—television
KPBS-TV — 15.1, Cox 11, Spectrum 1221
KPBS 2 — 15.2, Cox 811, Spectrum 1277
KPBS Create — 15.3, Cox 816, Spectrum 1275
KPBS Kids — 15.4, Cox 809, Spectrum 1276
KPBS channel info — HD radio
KPBS Radio — 89.5 HD1, Calexico 97.7 FM
Classical San Diego — 89.5 HD2