Whether you're looking to lace up your running shoes, board a free boat tour, or get down to world music at a street fair, there's a lot to do in the August sunshine this weekend. And if that doesn't sound appealing, it might after you learn to make a cup of handmade coffee.
Free Harbor Tours at Jack London Square
Ever wondered how Oakland's seaport works? Through October, the Port of Oakland is offering bimonthly boat tours of its marine terminals, which are normally closed to the public. The 90-minute tour will explain how the port operates, and why it's economically important to the region. All ages are welcome, though kids under 16 must be accompanied by an adult.
When: Friday, August 9, 6:45 - 8:15 p.m.
Where: Boards at Oakland Jack London Terminal/Ferry Dock, 10 Clay St.
Price: Free
Laurel Street Fair
The 20th annual edition of the Laurel Street Fair will celebrate music from around the globe, with the sultry Latin sounds of Volcan, all-female R&B sextet The Onyx, pre-digital music West African music from Orchestra Gold and many more. Other attractions include vendors, readings from Oakland Youth Poets, a kids' carnival, a craft beer garden with cocktails, a live yoga class and more.
When: Saturday, August 10, 11 a.m. - 7 p.m.
Where: 35th Ave & MacArthur Blvd
Price: Free
Blue Bottle Coffee: Brew Class
Want to be a barista for a day? Blue Bottle offers regular coffee classes at its Oakland locations, teaching amateurs how to make pourovers like a pro with its homegrown coffee dripper. You'll get to brew and sample various coffees, discuss what methods work best for what beans, and take home supplies to make your own drinks.
When: Saturday - Sunday, August 10 - August 11, times vary
Where: 4001 Piedmont Ave. and 2001 Franklin St.
Price: $35
Oaktown Half Marathon & 5K
Runners will fill the streets of Oakland on Sunday for the annual half-marathon and 5K event, which starts and finishes outside of City Hall, winding through Jack London Square, Uptown and Lake Merritt along the way. Kids aged 2 to 8 can take part in their own race, the "Stomper Stomp," led by Stomper, the elephant mascot of the Oakland A's.
When: Sunday, August 11, 7 a.m.
Where: Frank H. Ogawa Plaza, in front of Oakland City Hall
Price: $30 - 190 (prices may increase as event approaches)
