In case you missed our announcement, The Oaklandside just unveiled an events calendar where anyone from the community can publicize events that don’t make it into this weekly roundup. We’re thrilled to be able to highlight more events and help people find things to do through this new free service.
Alameda County’s mask mandate is back on due to the ongoing surge of COVID-19 cases, so don’t forget to pack a mask if you’re attending an event indoors.
For those who are going to be outdoors enjoying the heat wave, don’t forget your sunglasses and extra sunscreen.
Know of an event that should be featured? Email me at: azucena@oaklandside.org
Drag Queen Storytime with Per Sia
To celebrate Pride Month, the Oakland Public Library enlisted the help of San Francisco drag queen and educator Per Sia. All month, Per Sia will be visiting different Oakland library branches to host storytime events for kids. If you can’t make this Friday’s event at the West Oakland branch, don’t worry, you can pick from one of the library’s other storytimes.
Friday, June 10, 3:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m, free, Oakland Public Library, West Oakland branch, 1801 Adeline St.
Guns to gardens
Faith in Action East Bay, in partnership with the Oakland Police Department and St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, is hosting a gun buyback event this Saturday at Thy Word Ministries. Community members can exchange their guns for garden tools and, depending on the type of firearm turned in, a $100-$300 gift card. This event is being held to promote a safer and greener community. Local blacksmith John Rogers is partnering with OPD to take the guns and forge them into garden tools.
Saturday, June 11, all day, Thy Word Ministries, 8915 International Blvd.
Rockridge Rock-N-Stroll
This large outdoor community event on College Avenue in Rockridge is back through the end of the year, happening every second Saturday of the month. You’ll find crafts for kids, giveaways and special sales at local shops, live performances by over a dozen music acts from DJs to live bands, and more.
Every second Saturday starting June 11, free, on College Avenue in Rockridge
Sunset Sundays: Los Bahianatos at Brooklyn Basin
The spacious, open-air patio at Rocky’s Market in Brooklyn Basin has become a go-to venue for live outdoor performances during the pandemic. The Sunset Sundays shows are only one of the many entertainment options there. This Sunday, you can catch the four-piece band, Los Bahianatos. If you like Latinx sounds, you’re sure to love their infectious mix of Colombian salsa, cumbia, and vallenato. Los Bahianatos will also be performing at The Oaklanside’s next Culture Makers live event on June 23 at the New Parkway Theater.
Sunday, June 12, 5 p.m. to 7 p.m., $20, Rocky’s Market, 288 9th Ave.
Temescal Street Fair
The 17th annual Temescal Street Fair is returning to Telegraph Avenue with a host of fun activities for the whole family. The festival will include local food and beer vendors, works by local artists, carnival rides, a Fun Zone for the kids, and three different stages for live music. Musical guests will be announced soon. The Oaklandside is a media sponsor for this year’s fair, and we’ll be hosting a booth. So don’t miss your chance to come meet some of our reporters in person and learn about the work we do.
Sunday, June 12, 12 p.m. to 6 p.m., free, Telegraph Avenue, between 40th and 51st streets
