Looking to venture outdoors this weekend without breaking the bank? We've found five outdoor events in Oakland to enjoy on the cheap, from concerts to First Friday festivities to a summer reading event for kids.
Oakland First Fridays
The theme of this month's First Fridays event is "OakPartners." The idea is to create artwork with your partner or partners, and share it with @oaklandfirstfridays via social media. Your photographs may be featured on their social media pages. And of course, there's the usual lineup of gallery shows, music events, vendors and more, which can be found here.
When: Friday, August 3, 5-9 p.m.
Where: Telegraph Ave. from W. Grand Ave. to 27th St.
Price: Free
Taste of Oakland
The 2018 edition of this family-friendly food festival will have lots of live music, food and craft vendors, as well as technology demonstrations, sports activities, dancing and more. Expect performances from Latoya London, Niki Thomas and Rustee Allen, as well as food from chef Niki Shaw.
When: Saturday, August 4, 12-5 p.m.
Where: Jack London Square, Broadway and Embarcadero
Price: Free
Chinatown Walking Tour
Oakland has a rich East Asian immigrant history, and this walking tour of Chinatown run by the city of Oakland provides some insight into the people who helped make the city through the neighborhood's produce markets, restaurants, shops and more. The tour also includes a guided walk through the displays at the Oakland Asian Cultural Center.
When: Saturday, August 4, 10 a.m.
Where: Meet at the Pacific Renaissance Plaza fountain, 9th Street between Franklin and Webster streets
Price: Free
Summer Concerts at Lake Merritt Bandstand
Since 1912, the Oakland Municipal Band has been presenting free concerts at Lakeside Park, playing a variety of marches, classical, pop, big band, movies, international, show tunes, and more.
The schedule for this weekend's show has yet to be released, but expect two hours of lively music, best enjoyed with a picnic lunch.
When: Sunday, August 5, 1-3 p.m.
Where: Edoff Memorial Bandstand,
666 Bellevue Avenue
Price: Free
Summer Reading Celebration at OMCA
The Oakland Public Library and the Oakland Museum of California are hosting their 14th annual Summer Reading Celebration this Sunday, which will be held outdoors in the museum's gardens.
Kids can enjoy storytime, face painting, chess, live music, and an appearance from children's-book favorite Clifford the Big Red Dog. Hip-hop dance performances and demonstrations will help keep older kids entertained.
When: Sunday, August 5, 11 a.m.-3 p.m.
Where: Oakland Museum of California, 1000 Oak St.
Price: Free; $5 suggested donation
