A new year signifies a fresh start, and that’s always worthy of a celebration.
If you don't already have plans, here are a dozen ideas for starting 2017 in your preferred mode. Some of these activities may give you a spiritual boost for the new year, while others may leave you somewhat dehydrated, so choose wisely.
Japanese Bell-Ringing New Year’s Eve
The Buddhist Church of Oakland (825 Jackson St.) is hosting a free New Year’s Eve service, which will give visitors an opportunity to take part in a Japanese bell-ringing ceremony, known as Joya No Kane. Soba buckwheat noodles will be served afterwards. (8pm - 9pm)
Soulovely at the New Parish
Soulovely’s seasonal party, which empowers queer women of color, usually takes place during the summer. This month, however, the dynamic group will join The MoonCandy Live House Ensemble Project and DJ Bisou at The New Parish (1743 San Pablo Ave.)at 9pm to ring in the New Year. ($20)
Taoist Midnight Meditation
Get in touch with your spiritual side through a midnight meditation session at The Taoist Center (3824 MacArthur Blvd.). Free and open to the public, the event will include tea and cookies. (11pm)
Hubba Hubba NYE's Burlesque Bash
The Bay Area’s world-famous burlesque show, Hubba Hubba Revue, is coming to The Uptown Nightclub (1928 Telegraph Ave.) for a New Year’s Eve bash that combines comedy, variety acts and classic striptease. ($20, $25; 9pm - 2am)
OAKNYE
Join a party with DJ collective La Pelanga, or vibe to music from The Coup and the New Ethnic Heritage Ensemble. Both OAKNYE events will be held at the Starline Social Club (2236 M.L.K. Jr Way). Tickets for a three-course dinner program are also available. ($30, $80; 6pm - 2am)
NYE Comedy Mega Show
Taking place inside the historic Grand Lake Theater (3200 Grand Ave.), this one-night comedy event features entertainers like Joe Mande of Modern Family, Melissa Villaseñor of SNL, and Natasha Leggero of Another Period, among others. ($35; 10:30pm - 12:30am)
New Year's Eve Dinner Specials
To celebrate the turn of the year, several Oakland restaurants are offering New Year’s Eve dinner specials. Check out your options here.
Balloon Drop Celebration at Chabot Space & Science Center
Kids can also partake in this year’s festivities by heading to the Chabot Space & Science Center (10000 Skyline Blvd.) for its Balloon Drop Celebration. Hundreds of balloons will fall from the building’s ceiling as fun activities unfold throughout the day. ($5; Saturday, 11am - 4:30pm)
I Hella Love Oakland NYE
Dress to impress for I Hella Love Oakland NYE Party, which will go down at the Parliament (811 Washington St.) in Old Oakland. “Oakland's #1 monthly party” will feature music from DC is Chillin, DJ Shai, DJAYSLIM and other special guest DJs. ($60; 9pm - 2am)
Comedy Machine at Spice Monkey
Comedy Machine, at Spice Monkey (1628 Webster St.), is a three-round tournament pitting eight comedians against each other. The event will include winners from previous shows held throughout the year. ($25; 6pm - 7:30pm)
“Tropic Soul” NYE Mardi Gras Masquerade Bash
Expect free giveaways and lots of beads at this New Year’s Eve Mardi Gras masquerade party at Luka’s Taproom and Lounge (2221 Broadway). A complimentary champagne toast also awaits you. ($10; 9pm)
Ten To Get In NYE Social
Head to the basement of Oakstop (1721 Broadway) for the “freshest party” brought to you by the team behind Ten to Get In, Gentrifried Chicken and The Popular. ($20.17; 9pm - 3am)
Looking for more NYE Oakland ideas? Visit our Oakland events page.
How are you celebrating the New Year? Let us know in the comments.
