Showing posts with label events. Show all posts
Showing posts with label events. Show all posts

Tuesday, January 24, 2017

Oakland Restaurant Week



Like many others, I've been a bit distracted by current events, and by the weather. One of my few outings was to do bike parking for the Women's March in Oakland with Bike East Bay. Other than a few drops of rain, the march was thankfully dry and peaceful, and pretty awesome to see the huge turnout, not just in Oakland, but all over the country.

But we're in the midst of the 7th annual Oakland Restaurant Week, which runs until January 29th. Which I'd sort of forgotten about, until I received an email that caught my eye: The Vegan's Guide to Oakland. Also check out Explore Oakland’s bustling food scene during Oakland Restaurant Week on SFGate.

Whatever your dining tastes, Oakland Restaurant Week is a great chance to check out some the over 100 restaurants taking part, and get some nice deals with $20, $30 and $40 prix-fixe lunch or dinner options. Some restaurants are even donating some of their proceeds to support the Alameda County Community Food Bank. What restaurant week specials have you tried this year?

Wednesday, July 22, 2015

upcoming #Oakland events


It's been forever since I've done an upcoming events post, but a major work project is completed, my book, Legendary Locals of Oakland is in production and layout at the publisher, and I finally feel like I have some time. Hopefully you have some time, too, to get out and enjoy some of the great events coming up in Oakland!

Friday

Kaiser Center Roof Garden Concert - Each summer they put on free lunchtime concerts in the Kaiser Center Roof Garden, noon to 1pm. This Friday the musical group is The 415s. It's a great place to take your lunch and listen to some free music. (free)

Bicycle Fix-It Clinic - a free bicycle fix-it clinic at the 81st Avenue Library, from 2pm-5pm. And ideas on how to decorate your bike! (free)

Bites Off Broadway - my favorite food truck gathering, on 45th Street in front of Studio One Art Center.

Dancing Under the Stars - Friday's Dancing Under the Stars at Jack London Square features free lessons in the Bachata. Don't know what that is? Come down to JLS and learn! (free)

Saturday

OHA "Borax" Smith Tour - Join the Oakland Heritage Alliance to learn about legendary local "Borax" Smith, creator of the Key System streetcars, partner in the Realty Syndicate that built the Claremont Hotel, and more. ($10-$15)

Urban Wildlife walk with Wild Oakland - Join Wild Oakland and Yggdrasil Urban Wildlife Rescue to learn about some of the urban wildlife of Oakland with a walk around Lake Merritt. (free)

Pedalfest 2015 - The biggest bike festival in the Bay Area takes over Jack London Square. Besides bikes and bike-related fun, there will be food, music, and more. New features this year include an E-bike test track, Crucible Bike Build, and the Brompton Urban Challenge. (free)

Sunday

OHA Civil War Mountain View Cemetery - Join the Oakland Heritage Alliance and local historian Dennis Evanosky to learn some of the Civil War history at Mountain View Cemetery. ($10-$15)

Further Ahead

Love Our Dogs Day at Bites By the Lake - Bites By the Lake is a weekly food truck gathering by the Lakeview Library at the north end of Lake Merritt. On Sunday, August 2nd, the scheduled food trucks are Go Streatery, Tea and Picklets, Crepe Queen, Kancha’s Kitchen, Beulah’s Beans, and Curbside Creamery. But there will also be adoptable dogs from the Oakland Animal Shelter!

Art + Soul Festival - Music, art, food, fun. 2015 highlights include: Oaktown Throwdown BBQ Competition, Bandaloop, Kinetic Arts Circus Stage, and more. Plan to walk, bike or take transit...but not BART from SF because the transbay tube will be closed that weekend. (Saturday, August 1st and Sunday, August 2nd) ($12; seniors and youth $7; 12 and under free)

National Night Out - Meet your nearby neighbors for a street party, or join the Ella Baker Center for Human Rights for the Night Out for Safety and Liberation. (Tuesday, August 2nd) (free)

Sing-Along Cinema: Frozen - free movies to sing-along with at Jack London Square. (Thursday, August 6) (free)

Pete Escovedo: Personal Art Collection Show - closing finale of Pete Escovedo's personal art collection show at the historic Howden Building. (Saturday, August 8th)

Scenes from the Life of Julia Morgan - A special reading of Julith Offer's play, Scenes from the Life of Julia Morgan at the Pardee Home Museum. Learn more about California's first woman architect, take part in the reading, and enjoy hors d'oeuvres. (Sunday, August 9th) ($25)

PARK(ing) Day - Enjoy the streets in a new way as a pedestrian or cyclist, with dozens of parking spots around Oakland converted into temporary parklets. Plus a chance to celebrate a several permanent parklets, like in front of Farley's East. (Friday, September 18) (free)

Did I forget something interesting? What can I say? I'm out of practice. Let me know...

Friday, October 10, 2014

upcoming #Oakland events


Summer may be over, but there's no let up in the fun things to do in Oakland.

Friday - tonight

Bites off Broadway - the season finale of my favorite food truck gathering

Deep East #Oakland Mayoral Summit - ask some of the mayoral candidates about their plans for Oakland

Art Walk Reception at Gray Loft Gallery - 2nd Friday Art Walk in Jingletown

East Bay Bike Party - a fun party on two wheels. This month's theme: zombies!

Saturday

Oakland Urban Paths - Butters Canyon - join Oakland Urban Paths and local historian Dennis Evanosky in exploring Butters Canyon near Joaquin Miller Park

Life is Living Festival - a celebration of urban life

Urban Cycling 101 - a FREE bicycling safety class from Bike East Bay

F*R*E*E - A Documentary - a documentary following 5 of the youth dancers at the Destinary Arts Center in north Oakland. It will be premiering at the Mill Valley Film Festival

Flourish Oakland - art party and auction, the annual fundraiser for the Oakland Art Murmur, at Classic Cars West

Sunday

Rockridge Out and About - the annual fun-filled street festival in Rockridge

Further Ahead

Paws on the Square - fun for four-legged friends and their people in Jack London Square, including some specials from dog-friendly restaurants (Wednesdays in October)

Harvest at the Hacienda - special reception for teachers, principals and administrators to learn about the educational opportunities at historic Peralta Hacienda (October 16)

Third Fridays at Blackball Universe - celebrating emerging artists

Autumn Lights at the Gardens at Lake Merritt - a festival of lights, fire, fun and food in the beautiful Gardens at Lake Merritt (October 17 and 18)

Ghost Investigation at Pardee Home Museum - Just in time for Halloween! (October 18)

Hella-Ween Fun Run - 5K fun run and costume contest in Old Oakland (October 25)

Farley's-to-Farley's Bike Parade and Custom Contest! - bike parade and costume contest starting at Farley's East and ending at Farley's on 65th (October 26)

'Class' fashion show - Fashion show from Underground Runway, at Transmission Gallery (November 1)

Thursday, September 18, 2014

upcoming #Oakland events


Fun things going on this weekend in Oakland. Unfortunately for the drought, the rain will have stopped by then, so get out and enjoy Oakland!

Thursday - tonight

Oak Barrel Bash - the annual fund-raiser for Rebuilding Together Oakland, with wine, beer, food, auction, and more.

Friday

Park(ing) Day - enjoy some temporary (and a couple permanent) public spaces, where parking has been turned into space for people instead of cars.

Eat Real Festival - food, drinks, and fun all weekend at Jack London Square.

Portraits of a Modern World opening reception @ Blackball Universe

Saturday

Creek to Bay Day - help clean up Oakland's creeks and parks, from the hills to the Bay. There are dozens of sites to volunteer at all over Oakland.

Eat Real Festival - food, drinks, and fun all weekend at Jack London Square.

The After Life opening reception @ Compound Gallery

Youth Public Safety Day - free event put on the the Oakland Black Officers Association, with food, fun, music, safety vehicles for touring, and more.

Sunday

OMCA Bike Tours - tour downtown Oakland (or Alameda) by bike with the Oakland Museum.

NorCal Climate Rally - show your support for the world's leaders to act on climate change

Art in Nature - The Nature of Art - outdoor art festival at Redwood Regional Park.

Fired In Oakland: The History & Future Of California Ceramic Sculpture - Friends of the Oakland Art Murmur host a discussion, showing, and sale of ceramic sculpture. Food from Duende and wine from Cerruti Cellars.

Eat Real Festival - food, drinks, and fun all weekend at Jack London Square.

Further Ahead

Oakland Music Festival - Saturday, September 27.

Paws on the Square - Wednesday, October 1. A new dog-centric event at Jack London Square.

Chasing History: Observations / Explorations opening reception @ Transmission Gallery - Friday, October 3

Oaktoberfest in the Dimond - Saturday, October 4. Annual festival with beer, food, and family fun. This year's music includes legendary Oakland percussionist Pete Escovedo.

Bike Parade - Sunday, October 26. A bike parade and costume contest from Farley's East to Farley's on 65th, in partnership with WOBO.

Ongoing Art Shows

Amen @ Betti Ono Gallery - Betti Ono is celebrating four years with work from Amaryllis DeJesus Moleski, and writer, Carrie Y. T. Kholi (khoLi.)

Inhabiting Space @ Gray Loft Gallery

Thursday, July 31, 2014

upcoming Oakland events


Festival season in Oakland is in full swing with the Art and Soul Festival, and tomorrow is a First Friday, so there's tons of stuff to do. Note that Friday is a Spare the Air day, so while it's always a great idea to walk, bike or transit to Oakland happenings, it's an extra good idea on Friday. Bike East Bay will be providing free valet bike parking at Art and Soul on Saturday and Sunday.

Friday

Start things off with dinner at my favorite food truck gathering, Bites off Broadway. Friday is a First Friday, which means it's time for Art Murmur. Art Murmur has spread all over Oakland, from Uptown to Temescal to Jack London Square. There's also Jack's Night Market and Dancing Under the Stars (electric slide, anyone?) at Jack London Square.

Hanging out in Uptown for First Friday? Join The New Parkway Theater for a celebration of the completion of their new facade, with pizza, beer and live music from local gospel rap group Team Zoe.

Saturday

The big event is the annual Art and Soul Festival, with food, fun, music, dance, family activities, and more. On Saturday, there's a special event, the Oaktown Throwdown BBQ Competition, featuring local BBQ celebrity Tanya Holland.

Saturday there's the annual Urban Wine Xperience put on by the East Bay Vintner's Alliance (get some pro tips from East Bay Dish's Christina Mitchell).

Art Murmur too busy for you? The Saturday Stroll is a chance to check out the art without the big crowds. There's also Baycation Day at Classic Cars West to celebrate the first Saturday Stroll of August.

There are also numerous art receptions at various Oakland galleries, including one for the artists of Project 275 at Gray Loft Gallery in Jingletown.

Sunday

Sunday is the second day of the Art and Soul Festival, and its special event, The Whiskey Rebellion, a chance to taste a wide variety (60+) American whiskeys. It's a fundraiser for Oakland Grown and the Sustainable Business Alliance. Drink for a good cause!

Coming Up

Shakespeare in the Park at Peralta Hacienda, The Town's Half Marathon, Oakland Triathalon, and more!

Wednesday, June 4, 2014

upcoming Oakland events


There's a ton of stuff going on in Oakland, and lots of it focused on art. The weather is forecast to be warm and sunny, so get out and enjoy Oakland!

Friday

Friday is a First Friday, which means it's time for Art Murmur. Art Murmur has spread all over Oakland, including Temescal, which is putting its own twist on it with the Temescal Art Hop. And what better way to start things off than dinner at my favorite food truck gathering, Bites off Broadway?

There's also Jack's Night Market and Dancing Under the Stars at Jack London Square on Friday. There's an Opening Art Reception for "Disconnect" at Transmission Gallery.

Saturday and Sunday

Saturday and Sunday are the annual East Bay Open Studios. It's a chance to explore art in and around Oakland, meet the artists in their studios, and enjoy our great city. If you love animals and beer, check out Pints for Paws benefitting the Berkeley-East Bay Humane Society. Underground Runway presents Hardcopy, an art and fashion event at Warehouse 416. And there's a vegan food and beer fest at Classic Cars West.

Saturday Bonus:

Attitudinal Healing's 16th Annual ArtEsteem Exhibition, "Reflections of Me and My World", at American Steel Studios.

Further Ahead

Further ahead, Waterfront Flicks at JLS are starting up again, and there's an Oakland Urban Paths walk 6/14.


Don't see anything you like? Check out one of Oakland's awesome parks, stroll around Lake Merritt, or explore a new neighborhood in Oakland!

Thursday, December 19, 2013

upcoming Oakland events


Just a couple of events to post about. It hasn't all been watching sunsets, I've been busy with work lately.

Home Field Advantage: Oakland Book Signing - Thursday, December 18, 5-7pm. Buy a copy of the new Oakland book, Home Field Advantage: Oakland—The City That Changed the Face of Sports, and it get it signed by local author Paul Brekke-Miesner. At the Oaklandish popup at 472 Water Street in Jack London Square. Read more about the book at the 38th Notes blog.

Picardy Drive Community Social - Sunday, December 22, 6-8pm. Picardy Drive (between 55th and Seminary), aka, Christmas Tree Lane, will host its community holiday event 6-8pm under the lighted tree that's on the island in the middle of the block. This tradition has been going on for more than 30 years! Whether or not you come for the social, stop by to check out the holiday lights. The entire street lights up for the holidays, and hundreds of people check it out every year.

Friday, December 6, 2013

upcoming Oakland events

Alate and sparse events post. It's a First Friday, so lots of Art Murmur stuff going on. There's also the annual tree lighting at JLS, the lighted yacht parade, and more.

Friday

JLS lights up for the holidays - Friday, December 6, 5-7:30pm. Lighting of the 55' tree, holiday musical entertainment, live reindeer, tap dancing trees, costumed characters, and more! The tree lighting will take place at 7:15. (free)

Saturday

Jingletown Art Walk Saturday, December 7, 11am-6pm. A great way to check out the diverse and interesting artists of Jingletown. Over 50 artists and studios participating, including one of my favorites, Gray Loft Gallery. (free)

Oakland Holiday Parade - Saturday, December 7, 2pm. The 14th annual holiday children's parade, with bands, balloons, floats and more. (free)

Lighted Yacht Parade - Saturday, Dcemeber 6, 4:30pm. The annual lighted yacht parade graces the waters off Jack London Square. (free)

Sunday

Jingletown Art Walk Sunday, December 8, 11am-6pm. A great way to check out the diverse and interesting artists of Jingletown. Over 50 artists and studios participating, including one of my favorites, Gray Loft Gallery. (free)

ongoing events:


looking further ahead:

Oakland Urban Paths walk - Saturday, December 14, 10am. Join OUP for our 4th annual 'Walk and Shop' from Lakeshore to Piedmont Ave. and back again. It's a great walk even if you don't shop, or just use it as a chance to scout out future opportunities. (free)

Wednesday, November 6, 2013

upcoming Oakland events

Lots going on this weekend, more stuff that I want to do than I have time for. Biketopia with EBBC on Friday, an Oakland Urban Paths walk, Hops and Harvest and more on Saturday, and Novemberfest with WOBO on Sunday.

Thursday

Barbary Coast Comedy - Thursdays, 7-8:30pm, at Legionnaire Saloon on Telegraph. A weekly comedy showcase, featuring cutting-edge comedy from names you know and up-and-coming comedians from around the Bay and beyond! ($5 cover)

Friday

Biketopia with EBBC - Friday, November 8, 5:30-9:30pm. Join East Bay Bicycle Coalition to celebrate successes and look forward to future challenges to making the East Bay bicycle-friendly. ($15-$50)

Saturday

Oakland Urban Paths - exploring the Hayward Fault #2 - Saturday, November 9, 10am. OUP explores a different section of the Hayward Fault with historian Dennis Evanosky. (free)

PLACE Festival of the Commons - Saturday, November 9, 10am-5pm. Join neighbors in the Golden Gate District for a festival of the commons. Actual Cafe and Yu Ming School will be planting in front of the school, and there will be numerous demos and activities. (free)

Hops 'N' Harvest - Saturday, November 9, 1-5pm. Peoples Victory Garden and Bison Brewing celebrate the release of Bison's Hop Harvest Ale made with hops grown in Oakland. Fundraiser for the Victory Garden Foundation, with live music, brewing demo, garden classes, and more. ($5-$15)

CityCamp Oakland - Saturday, November 9. The 2nd annual "unconference" brings together citizens, city government, and businesses to innovate, enhance transparency and increase civic engagement. (free)

Sunday

Novemberfest 2013 - Sunday, November 10, 12-4pm. Enjoy local beer from Linden Street Brewery, Drakes, and more, sausage from Pizzaiolo, live music, and more. Proceeds benefit WOBO. (free)

ongoing events:

looking further ahead:

Blackball Universe: Urban Outskirts - Friday, November 15. Meet the artists behind Urban Outskirts, showing November 2-December 29. (free)

Transgender Day of Rememberance - Wednesday, November 20, 5:15pm at Frank Ogawa Plaza. A day of sharing, silence, support and community to remember those lost to violence.

Underground Runway: Civilized - Thursday, November 21, 6-8pm. Join Underground Runway (UGRW) for a fall fashion show. UGRW is a platform for unsigned and under recognized talent. Hosted by Vessel Gallery.

"Fences" by August Wilson at AAMLO - November 28,29,30. The Lower Bottom Playaz continue through Wilson's The Century Cycle, presending "Fences" at AAMLO. ($15-$30)

Winter Wonderland with WOBO - Wednesday, December 4, 6pm. Enjoy food, drinks, and music at the New Parish all while supporting the work of WOBO to increase walkability, bikeability, and general livability in Oakjland.

JLS lights up for the holidays - Friday, December 6, 5-7:30pm. Lighting of the 55' tree, holiday musical entertainment, live reindeer, tap dancing trees, costumed characters, and more! The tree lighting will take place at 7:15. (free)

Friday, November 1, 2013

upcoming Oakland events

It's a First Friday, so the usual Art Murmur and First Friday activities. The big event for the weekend is the Day of the Dead festival in Fruitvale.

Thursday

Barbary Coast Comedy - Thursdays, 7-8:30pm, at Legionnaire Saloon on Telegraph. A weekly comedy showcase, featuring cutting-edge comedy from names you know and up-and-coming comedians from around the Bay and beyond! (a Belgian comedian? they can probably make you laugh in 3 languages) ($5 cover)

Friday

Art Murmur and First Friday - Art Murmur Uptown, Downtown, every where in town. Plus First Friday events on Telegraph. (free)

Saturday

Dia De Los Muertos festival - Saturday, November 2. The annual Day of the Dead celebration in Fruitvale. Read about last year's festival. (free)

Sunday

Underground Runway presents X'Pression - Sunday, November 3, 1-3pm. Join Underground Runway (UGRW) for a fall fashion show. UGRW is a platform for unsigned and under recognized talent. ($5-$10)

ongoing events:

looking further ahead:

Biketopia with EBBC - Friday, November 8, 5:30-9:30pm. Join East Bay Bicycle Coalition to celebrate successes and look forward to future challenges to making the East Bay bicycle-friendly. ($15-$50)

Oakland Urban Paths - exploring the Hayward Fault #2 - Saturday, November 9, 10am. OUP explores a different section of the Hayward Fault with historian Dennis Evanosky. (free)

PLACE Festival of the Commons - Saturday, November 9, 10am-5pm. Join neighbors in the Golden Gate District for a festival of the commons. Actual Cafe and Yu Ming School will be planting in front of the school, and there will be numerous demos and activities. (free)

Hops 'N' Harvest - Saturday, November 9, 1-5pm. Peoples Victory Garden and Bison Brewing celebrate the release of Bison's Hop Harvest Ale made with hops grown in Oakland. Fundraiser for the Victory Garden Foundation, with live music, brewing demo, garden classes, and more. ($5-$15)

CityCamp Oakland - Saturday, November 9. The 2nd annual "unconference" brings together citizens, city government, and businesses to innovate, enhance transparency and increase civic engagement. (free)

Novemberfest 2013 - Sunday, November 10, 12-4pm. Enjoy local beer from Linden Street Brewery, Drakes, and more, sausage from Pizzaiolo, live music, and more. Proceeds benefit WOBO. (free)

Blackball Universe: Urban Outskirts - Friday, November 15. Meet the artists behind Urban Outskirts, showing November 2-December 29. (free)

Transgender Day of Rememberance - Wednesday, November 20, 5:15pm at Frank Ogawa Plaza. A day of sharing, silence, support and community to remember those lost to violence.

Underground Runway: Civilized - Thursday, November 21, 6-8pm. Join Underground Runway (UGRW) for a fall fashion show. UGRW is a platform for unsigned and under recognized talent. Hosted by Vessel Gallery.

"Fences" by August Wilson at AAMLO - November 28,29,30. The Lower Bottom Playaz continue through Wilson's The Century Cycle, presending "Fences" at AAMLO. ($15-$30)

JLS lights up for the holidays - Friday, December 6, 5-7:30pm. Lighting of the 55' tree, holiday musical entertainment, live reindeer, tap dancing trees, costumed characters, and more! The tree lighting will take place at 7:15. (free)

Thursday, October 24, 2013

upcoming Oakland events

Avariety of interesting things to do, including learning how to curl, the HellaWeen Fun Run, walking tours, Day of the Dead at OMCA, and more.

Thursday

Barbary Coast Comedy - Thursdays, 7-8:30pm, at Legionnaire Saloon on Telegraph. A weekly comedy showcase, featuring cutting-edge comedy from names you know and up-and-coming comedians from around the Bay and beyond! (a Belgian comedian? they can probably make you laugh in 3 languages) ($5 cover)

Friday

Learn Curling - Road to the Olympics curling tour - Friday, Saturday, or Sunday. Come learn the basics of curling at the Oakland Ice Arena. Tickets are normally $40, but click here and enter the code "OAKLAND ROCKS" to get them for $25. Curling is hella fun! ($25-$40)

Saturday

East Oakland Cleanup - Saturday, October 26, 9am-noon. Come help clean up along Bancroft at 73rd and get to know your fellow Oaklanders. (free)

Learn Curling - Road to the Olympics curling tour - Friday, Saturday, or Sunday. Come learn the basics of curling at the Oakland Ice Arena. Tickets are normally $40, but click here and enter the code "OAKLAND ROCKS" to get them for $25. Curling is hella fun! ($25-$40)

Oakland Walking Tours - Saturdays, 10am. Free downtown walking tours highlighting Oakland's history, architecture and people. Saturday's tour is Preservation Park, led by Dennis Evanosky. Read about past Oakland Walking Tours. (free)

Hellaween Fun Run - Saturday, October 26, 4:30pm. Come out and show off your creative side in the 2nd annual Hellaween 5K Fun Run. Prizes for best costume. Post-race beers and restaurant specials in Old Oakland follow. Read about last year's Hellaween Fun Run. ($35-$45)

Sunday

Days of the Dead Celebration at OMCA - Sunday, October 27, noon-4:30pm. The annual Days of the Dead community celebration at the Oakland Museum of California. Read about last year's celebration. (with admission)

Learn Curling - Road to the Olympics curling tour - Friday, Saturday, or Sunday. Come learn the basics of curling at the Oakland Ice Arena. Tickets are normally $40, but click here and enter the code "OAKLAND ROCKS" to get them for $25. Curling is hella fun! ($25-$40)

Food Day popup and beer garden - Sunday, October 27, 3-7pm. Food Day is "a nationwide celebration of healthy, affordable, and sustainably produced food and a grassroots campaign for better food policies." Join La Borinqueña, Linden Street Brewery, and more to celebrate in Oakland. (free)

Wednesday

Oakland Walking Tours - Wednesday, 10am. Free downtown walking tours highlighting Oakland's history, architecture and people. Read about past Oakland Walking Tours. (free)

ongoing events:

looking further ahead:

Dia De Los Muertos festival - Saturday, November 2. The annual Day of the Dead celebration in Fruitvale. Read about last year's festival. (free) CityCamp Oakland - Saturday, November 9. The 2nd annual "unconference" brings together citizens, city government, and businesses to innovate, enhance transparency and increase civic engagement. (free) Fences - from the Lower Bottom Playaz - opening in November. The Lower Bottom Playaz continue working their way through August Wilson's remarkable Century Cycle.

Wednesday, October 16, 2013

upcoming Oakland events

You might be thinking there's not much to do in Oakland, since we're past all the big street festivals, but you'd be wrong. There's lots going on, from classic cars to native plants to A Taste of Oakland block party, plus the Autumn Lights Festival at Lake Merritt.

Thursday

Barbary Coast Comedy - Thursdays, 7-8:30pm, at Legionnaire Saloon on Telegraph. A weekly comedy showcase, featuring cutting-edge comedy from names you know and up-and-coming comedians from around the Bay and beyond! (a Belgian comedian? they ca n probably make you laugh in 3 languages) ($5 cover)

Friday

Autumn Lights Festival at Lake Merritt - Friday, October 18, 6-10pm. Acres of gardens illuminated with weird and enchanting art installations created by local Bay Area artists. Read about last year's Autumn Lights. ($12.50/$25/$50)

Blacula's Ball - Friday, October 18, 7pm-midnight. Blackball Universe will transform itself into a haunted house, with dark art by various local artists. Friday they're having a party!

Saturday

Oakland Walking Tours - Saturdays, 10am. Free downtown walking tours highlighting Oakland's history, architecture and people. Read about past Oakland Walking Tours. (free)

Classic Cars at JLS - Saturday, October 19, 11am-4pm. Jack London Square will showcase more than 60 vintage vehicles from the 1920s to the 1960s. Live music, too. (free)

A Taste of Oakland: Uptown Block Party - Saturday, October 19, 5-8pm. Sample dishes and cocktails from restaurants and bars in Uptown. Tickets include a taste/sample of cuisine or a signature cocktail at over 20 participating venues. Partial proceeds will benefit Youth Radio and the visual arts program at Oakland School for the Arts. (21+ to drink; $20/$30)

Autumn Lights Festival at Lake Merritt - Saturday, October 19, 6-10pm. Acres of gardens illuminated with weird and enchanting art installations created by local Bay Area artists. Read about last year's Autumn Lights. ($12.50/$25/$50)

Sunday

Native Plant Sale and Open House with Friends of Sausal Creek - Sunday, October 20, 10am-3pm. Experts will be on hand to help you pick appropriate plants for your area of Oakland. Plus live music, face painting and crafts for kids, and more. (free)

Dimond Walking Tour - Sunday, October 20, 10am-12:30pm. Join historian Dennis Evanosky for a walk through the historic Dimond district. Meet at the Boy Scout Hut in Dimond Park. (free)

Wednesday

Oakland Walking Tours - Wednesday, 10am. Free downtown walking tours highlighting Oakland's history, architecture and people. Read about past Oakland Walking Tours. (free)

Jack Glow and Fire Show - Wednesday, October 9, 6:30-7:30pm. A fusion of fire dance and flow art with fire hoopers, fire spinners and fire jugglers at Jack London Square. (free)

ongoing events:


looking further ahead:

Return of the Living Fed - Tuesday, October 24, 5:30pm. An after-hours opportunity to volunteer with the Alameda County Community Food Bank and have lots of fun at the same time! Come in costume, get free dinner from the Grilled Cheez Guy, and help out the hungry in Alameda County. (free)

Hellaween Fun Run - Saturday, October 26, 4:30pm. Come out and show off your creative side in the 2nd annual Hellaween 5K Fun Run. Prizes for best costume. Post-race beers and restaurant specials in Old Oakland follow. Read about last year's Hellaween Fun Run. ($35-$45)

Jack of All Trades Market - 2nd Saturdays starting October 12, 11am-5pm. A mix of local makers, indie designers, antiquers, collectors, artists, start-ups and more. Plus DIY workshops, live music, and local food. (free)

CityCamp Oakland - Saturday, November 9. The 2nd annual "unconference" brings together citizens, city government, and businesses to innovate, enhance transparency and increase civic engagement. (free)

Fences - from the Lower Bottom Playaz - opening in November. The Lower Bottom Playaz continue working their way through August Wilson's remarkable Century Cycle.

Thursday, October 3, 2013

upcoming Oakland events

It's a First Friday, so that means First Friday events on Telegraph, and Art Murmur Uptown, Downtown, and elsewhere. But there's also the Black Cowboy Parade in West Oakland, Oaktoberfest in the Dimond, a celebration of 150 years at Saint Mary's Cemetery, and Rockridge Out and About. And since Sunday is the First Sunday, it means admission to the Oakland Museum of California is free!

Friday

Bites off Broadway - Fridays, 5:30-8:30pm. My favorite food truck event, held Fridays outside Studio One Art Center just off Broadway. Read more about Bites off Broadway. (free)

Art Murmur and First Friday - Art Murmur Uptown, Downtown, every where in town. Plus First Friday events on Telegraph. (free)

Great Wall of Oakland - Friday, October 4, 7-11pm. The Great Wall of Oakland is partnering with Chabot Space and Science Center to bring you amazing videos of space. (free)

Opening Reception for Indisputable Still Life - Friday, October 4, 6-9pm. Opening reception for the new exhibit at the Transmission Gallery. (free)

Saturday

Black Cowboy Parade - Saturday, October 5, 10am-5pm. The long-running Black Cowboy Parade, a staple of West Oakland for almost 40 years. Read about the 2011 parade. At Defremery Park, though the parade goes for a number of blocks. (free)

Oakland Walking Tours - Saturdays, 10am. Free downtown walking tours highlighting Oakland's history, architecture and people. Read about past Oakland Walking Tours. (free)

150 Year Celebration at Saint Mary's Cemetery - Saturday, October 5, 11am-noon. Saint Mary's celebrates 150 years, as the oldest operating cemetery in Oakland. (free)

Oaktoberfest - Saturday, October 5, 11am-6pm. Oakland's annual, family-friendly craft beer festival. Food, beer, music, activities for kids, and more. See pictures from the 2011 Oaktoberfest. (free)

Sunday

Rockridge Out and About - Sunday, October 6, 12-6pm. Food, music, activities for kids, crafts, and more at the annual Rockridge street festival. Check out coverage of Rockridge Out and About 2011. (free)

Sundays in the Redwoods - Sundays, starting September 22. Hang out in beautiful Joaquin Miller Park and listen to live music amongst the redwoods. ($14+$2)

Tuesday

Tall Ships visit Oakland - October 8-14. The tall ships Lady Washington and Hawaiian Chieftain will be back in Oakland at JLS. Tours ($3) and battle sails ($40-$60) available. Read about a visit last year.

Wednesday

Oakland Walking Tours - Wednesday, 10am. Free downtown walking tours highlighting Oakland's history, architecture and people. Read about past Oakland Walking Tours. (free)

Jack Glow and Fire Show - Wednesday, October 9, 6:30-7:30pm. A fusion of fire dance and flow art with fire hoopers, fire spinners and fire jugglers at Jack London Square. (free)

ongoing events:


looking further ahead:

Fences - from the Lower Bottom Playaz - opening in October. The Lower Bottom Playaz continue working their way through August Wilson's remarkable Century Cycle.

Oakland Urban Paths - Walk the Bay - Saturday, October 12, 10am. Oakland Urban Paths will join WOBO, California Walks, and Walk San Francisco to walk the new Bay Bridge trail. (free for members; $5 others)

Life is Living Festival - Saturday, October 12 at 10:00am. The annual West Oakland festival celebrating urban life through hip hop, inter-generational health and environmental action. Music, vendors, food, health screenings, skate demos and more. (free)

Jack of All Trades Market - 2nd Saturdays starting October 12, 11am-5pm. A mix of local makers, indie designers, antiquers, collectors, artists, start-ups and more. Plus DIY workshops, live music, and local food. (free)

Classic Cars at JLS - Saturday, October 19, 11am-4pm. Jack London Square will showcase more than 60 vintage vehicles from the 1920s to the 1960s. Live music, too. (free)

CityCamp Oakland - Saturday, November 9. The 2nd annual "unconference" brings together citizens, city government, and businesses to innovate, enhance transparency and increase civic engagement. (free)

Sunday, September 29, 2013

how to find out what to do in Oakland (and beyond)

On the most recent Oakland Urban Paths walk in Old Oakland and West Oakland, the subject of "how do you find out what's going on in Oakland?" came up while we were walking.

The group had a bunch of responses, because there are a lot of different ways to find out about stuff. Some sources try to list everything going on in Oakland or the East Bay, while others are shorter lists that try to capture an interesting selection. The upcoming Oakland events (which you can get to easily at any time by clicking on the the "events" button at the top of each page) is a list of things that's interesting to me or I've been told about, so it's somewhere in the middle.

Here are the sources I know about, sorted roughly from "all inclusive" to "most selective".

Visit Oakland - The Oakland Visitor's Bureau maintains the most comprehensive list of things to do in Oakland, both ongoing activities and specially schedule ones. It's such a huge list that it can be a little daunting, but fortunately you can narrow your list by date or category.

East Bay Express - The East Bay Express maintains a long list of events all over the East Bay. You can narrow your search by date, category or neighborhood.

Fun¢heapSF - Johnny's Guide to San Francisco for Cheapskates maintains a large list for the whole Bay Area, but it's restricted by one important criteria: cost; the event has to be either free or cheap. And while there's not a category just for Oakland, there is one for East Bay events.

Oakland North - Oakland North is a project of the UC Berkeley Graduate School of Journalism. Their This Weekend in Oakland posts list a variety of upcoming events in Oakland. The 'staff' of the paper changes as students move through the journalism program, so the list has a slightly different feel depending on who compiled it. Unfortunately there's no single link (that I can find) to get the most recent events post.

Oakland Local - Hyper-local news source Oakland Local has a list similar to Oakland North's. I previously cross-posted my upcoming Oakland events to Oakland Local, and now it seems that different people compile the list, so it also has a different feel depending on who compiled it.

Our Oakland - my list of upcoming Oakland events. It's a combination of things that interest me plus events other people let me know about. So it tends to be slanted towards my interests: history, food, beer, bicycling, etc.

Jean Quan's Newsletter - Regardless of how you feel about her politics, someone in the mayor's office puts together a great newsletter of things to do in Oakland. The only downside is that sometimes it comes out too late—some of the events may have already happened or be happening later that day, too late to plan for.

Oakland's Own: Don't Miss of the Week - An Oakland blog with a selection of things to do in Oakland.

EBX Culture Spy Blog - In addition to the lengthy list noted above, the East bay Express also has the Culture Spy Blog with the shortest list around: Weekender: This Weekend's Top Five Events.

Thursday, September 26, 2013

upcoming Oakland events

This week's big event is the 5th Annual Eat Real Festival, but there's lots of other interesting stuff going on, too.

Friday

Eat Real Festival - September 27-29. The annual food festival is back, with tasty eats, beer, music, and how-to sessions. (free)

Bites off Broadway - Fridays, 5:30-8:30pm. My favorite food truck event, held Fridays outside Studio One Art Center just off Broadway. Read more about Bites off Broadway. (free)

Dancing Under the Stars - Fridays, 8:30-10pm. The popular free dance classes at Jack London Square are back for another season. (free)

Saturday

Anza Trail caravan - Saturday, September 28. Join the National Park Service to explore part of the Anza Trail, starting in Fremont and finishing up at Peralta Hacienda in Oakland. (free)

Oakland Walking Tours - Saturdays, 10am. Free downtown walking tours highlighting Oakland's history, architecture and people. Read about past Oakland Walking Tours. (free)

Eat Real Festival - September 27-29. The annual food festival is back, with tasty eats, beer, music, and how-to sessions. (free)

Sunday

WasteNot: e-waste drop-off - Sunday, September 29. Support the Society of St. Vincent de Paul and get rid of your e-waste at the same time. At St. Theresa church, 30 Mandalay Road. (free)

Sundays in the Redwoods - Sundays, starting September 22. Hang out in beautiful Joaquin Miller Park and listen to live music amongst the redwoods. ($14+$2)

Eat Real Festival - September 27-29. The annual food festival is back, with tasty eats, beer, music, and how-to sessions. (free)

Wednesday

Oakland Walking Tours - Wednesday, 10am. Free downtown walking tours highlighting Oakland's history, architecture and people. Read about past Oakland Walking Tours. (free)

ongoing events:


looking further ahead:

Fences - from the Lower Bottom Playaz - opening in October. The Lower Bottom Playaz continue working their way through August Wilson's remarkable Century Cycle.

Opening Reception for Indisputable Still Life - Friday, October 4, 6-9pm. Opening reception for the new exhibit at the Transmission Gallery. (free)

Black Cowboy Parade - Saturday, October 5, 10am-5pm. The long-running Black Cowboy Parade, a staple of West Oakland for almost 40 years. Read about the 2011 parade. At Defremery Park, though the parade goes for a number of blocks. (free)

Oaktoberfest - Saturday, October 5, 11am-6pm. Oakland's annual, family-friendly craft beer festival. Food, beer, music, activities for kids, and more. See pictures from the 2011 Oaktoberfest. (free)

Rockridge Out and About - Sunday, October 6, 12-6pm. Food, music, activities for kids, crafts, and more at the annual Rockridge street festival. Check out coverage of Rockridge Out and About 2011. (free)

Tall Ships visit Oakland - October 8-14. The tall ships Lady Washington and Hawaiian Chieftain will be back in Oakland at JLS. Tours ($3) and battle sails ($40-$60) available. Read about a visit last year.

Life is Living Festival - Saturday, October 12 at 10:00am. The annual West Oakland festival celebrating urban life through hip hop, inter-generational health and environmental action. Music, vendors, food, health screenings, skate demos and more. (free)

CityCamp Oakland - Saturday, November 9. The 2nd annual "unconference" brings together citizens, city government, and businesses to innovate, enhance transparency and increase civic engagement. (free)

Wednesday, September 18, 2013

upcoming Oakland events

Aton going on. Art openings, Park(ing) Day, Rebuilding Together Oakland's Oak Barrel Bash. the Oakland Music Festival, the annual Creek to Bay Day cleanup and more!

Thursday

Urban University's Local Artist Showcase Opening Party - Thursday, September 19, 6-9pm. Urban University is launching a series of local artist/artisan showcases and is kicking it off with an opening party! (free; donations go to the Single Parents at Work program)

Oak Barrel Bash - Thursday, September 19, 6-9pm. Join Rebuilding Together Oakland for a benefit celebrating 20 years of service. There will local wine and beer, and a raffle with prizes like an instant wine cellar, a private event at Linden Street Brewery, or a year's worth of growler refills at Drakes. ($60-$100)

Friday

Park(ing) Day - Friday, September 20. Join WOBO and local businesses as parking spaces are turned into temporary parklets. Even the Oakland Main Library is getting into the act! A map of the parklets planned for Friday can be found here. And of course, there are the existing parklets like at Farley's East and Manifesto Bikes. (free)

Bites off Broadway - Fridays, 5:30-8:30pm. My favorite food truck event, held Fridays outside Studio One Art Center just off Broadway. Read more about Bites off Broadway. (free)

Dancing Under the Stars - Fridays, 8:30-10pm. The popular free dance classes at Jack London Square are back for another season. (free)

Saturday

Creek to Bay Day - Saturday, September 21, 9am-noon in various locations around Oakland. Help clean up Oakland's waterways. Read about last year's Creek to Bay Day. (free)

Oakland Walking Tours - Saturdays, 10am. Free downtown walking tours highlighting Oakland's history, architecture and people. Read about past Oakland Walking Tours. (free)

Oakland Music Festival - Saturday, September 21, 11am-7:30pm. There's hella music, from The Coup to Kev Choice and lots more. Plus local food, beer, wine and more. ($20-$70)

Sunday

Sundays in the Redwoods - Sundays, starting September 22. Hang out in beautiful Joaquin Miller Park and listen to live music amongst the redwoods. ($14+$2)

Wednesday

Oakland Walking Tours - Wednesday, 10am. Free downtown walking tours highlighting Oakland's history, architecture and people. Read about past Oakland Walking Tours. (free)

ongoing events:


looking further ahead:

Eat Real Festival - September 27-29. The annual food festival is back, with tasty eats, beer, music, and how-to sessions. (free)

Anza Trail caravan - Saturday, September 28. Join the National Park Service to explore part of the Anza Trail, starting in Fremont and finishing up at Peralta Hacienda in Oakland. (free)

WasteNot: e-waste drop-off - Sunday, September 29. Support the Society of St. Vincent de Paul and get rid of your e-waste at the same time. At St. Theresa church, 30 Mandalay Road. (free)

Fences - from the Lower Bottom Playaz - opening in October. The Lower Bottom Playaz continue working their way through August Wilson's remarkable Century Cycle.

Black Cowboy Parade - Saturday, October 5. The long-running Black Cowboy Parade, a staple of West Oakland for almost 40 years. Read about the 2011 parade. (free)

Oaktoberfest - Saturday, October 5, 11am-6pm. Oakland's annual, family-friendly craft beer festival. Food, beer, music, activities for kids, and more. See pictures from the 2011 Oaktoberfest. (free)

Rockridge Out and About - Sunday, October 6, 12-6pm. Food, music, activities for kids, crafts, and more at the annual Rockridge street festival. Check out coverage of Rockridge Out and About 2011. (free)

CityCamp Oakland - Saturday, November 9. The 2nd annual "unconference" brings together citizens, city government, and businesses to innovate, enhance transparency and increase civic engagement. (free)

Wednesday, September 11, 2013

upcoming Oakland events

Avariety of events this weekend, including an Oakland Urban Paths walk, the ¡Viva Tamale! Tamale Cookoff, the 3rd Annual Pio Pico Bash at Peralta Hacienda, and more. Celebrate Mexican Independence Day!

Friday

Bites off Broadway - Fridays, 5:30-8:30pm. My favorite food truck event, held Fridays outside Studio One Art Center just off Broadway. Read more about Bites off Broadway. (free)

Dancing Under the Stars - Fridays, 8:30-10pm. The popular free dance classes at Jack London Square are back for another season. (free)

Saturday

Oakland Urban Paths: West Oakland - Saturday, September 14, 10am. Join Oakland Urban Paths as we explore part of Old Oakland and West Oakland, and see what were once adjacent neighborhoods. (free)

Oakland Walking Tours - Saturdays, 10am. Free downtown walking tours highlighting Oakland's history, architecture and people. Read about past Oakland Walking Tours. (free)

3rd Annual Pio Pico Bash at Peralta Hacienda - Saturday, September 14, 6-7:30pm. Author Carlos Salomon will relate the life of Pío Pico, the last governor of Mexican California, of mixed African, Native and Spanish descent, and tell about the system of 136 racial classifications or castas in use at the time.

Sunday

¡Viva Tamales! Tamale Cookoff - Sunday, September 15, 12-4pm. A fundraiser for La Clinia de la Raza, which has been providing affordable healthcare for over 40 years. Hosted by Tina Tamale of La Borinquena Mex-icatessen. Competitors include Moles y Tamales la Oaxaqueña, Evil Jerk, and Alicia’s Tamales Los Mayas. There will be meat and vegi tamales. Read more about the event on Oakland Food Events. ($15-$20)

Green Street Party in Glenview - Sunday, September 15, 1-4pm. Join Glenview neighbors in learning about climate change and ways to address it. (free)

Delilah Beasley Tea - Sunday, September 15. Join the Pardee Home for the 2nd annual Delilah Beasley Tea, honoring women with a pioneering spirit. ($5/$15)

Tuesday

Taste of Temescal - Tuesday, September 17, 6-8:30pm. A culinary crawl through Temescal, raising money for local schools and organizations. There will also be live music and prizes. ($30)

Wednesday

Oakland Walking Tours - Wednesday, 10am. Free downtown walking tours highlighting Oakland's history, architecture and people. Read about past Oakland Walking Tours. (free)

ongoing events:


looking further ahead:

Creek to Bay Day - Saturday, September 21 in various locations around Oakland. Help clean up Oakland's waterways. Read about last year's Creek to Bay Day. (free)

Sundays in the Redwoods - Sundays, starting September 22. Hang out in beautiful Joaquin Miller Park and listen to live music amongst the redwoods. ($14+$2)

Eat Real Festival - September 27-29. The annual food festival is back, with tasty eats, beer, music, and how-to sessions. (free)

WasteNot: e-waste drop-off - Sunday, September 29. Support the Society of St. Vincent de Paul and get rid of your e-waste at the same time. At St. Theresa church, 30 Mandalay Road. (free)

Fences - from the Lower Bottom Playaz - opening in October. The Lower Bottom Playaz continue working their way through August Wilson's remarkable Century Cycle.

Black Cowboy Parade - Saturday, October 5. The long-running Black Cowboy Parade, a staple of West Oakland for almost 40 years. Read about the 2011 parade. (free)

Oaktoberfest - Saturday, October 5, 11am-6pm. Oakland's annual, family-friendly craft beer festival. Food, beer, music, activities for kids, and more. See pictures from the 2011 Oaktoberfest. (free)

Rockridge Out and About - Sunday, October 6, 12-6pm. Food, music, activities for kids, crafts, and more at the annual Rockridge street festival. Check out coverage of Rockridge Out and About 2011. (free)

CityCamp Oakland - Saturday, November 9. The 2nd annual "unconference" brings together citizens, city government, and businesses to innovate, enhance transparency and increase civic engagement. (free)