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!

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