It’s the last week of July, and we have a whole lot of events to share happening in Oakland.
As the Delta variant continues to spread throughout the Bay Area, local health officials are again recommending the use of masks indoors in public spaces, regardless of vaccination status. Continue taking the necessary precautions to keep you and your loved ones safe.
If there’s an event you think we should feature, email me at azucena@oaklandside.org or fill out the form at the bottom of this page and let me know.
Karaoke night at The Legionnaire
Fans of this popular bar on Telegraph Avenue might be surprised to find out that DJ nights will not return as part of its weekly entertainment rotation. Instead, The Legionnaire Saloon will host karaoke every single night. The bar recently underwent a partial remodel, featuring an updated back bar and new lighting throughout. Nightly, you’ll find karaoke drink specials like a Sapporo for $3, in addition to the screening of sporting events, food pop-ups, and a photo booth. Come sign up to sing your lungs out and enjoy other amateur singers any night of the week.
Nightly, karaoke begins at 8 p.m., free, The Legionnaire Saloon, 2272 Telegraph Ave.
Roller skate party on Park Boulevard
Every Wednesday, skaters from all walks of life gather at Smith Park in Oakland to rhythm skate to the sounds of DJ Ga of Skate N Chill, presented by NCSK8 Fam. This weekly event is family-friendly. You don’t need to be a professional skater to participate.
Every Wednesday, 6 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., free, Smith Park, 1969 Park Blvd.
Discussion on the state of BART, post-pandemic
If you ride public transit, and specifically BART, you may want to join an event hosted by the Rotary Club of Oakland featuring a conversation with one of BART’s board of directors, Robert Baburn. He’ll be discussing the current state of BART and how it’s recovering from the financial impact caused by the prolonged pandemic. Currently, BART is at 15% ridership from pre-pandemic levels. The event will take place in person at the Rotary Club and will also be streamed via Zoom. For those who want to attend in person, proof of vaccination is required.
Thursday, July 29, 12:30 p.m., free, Rotary Club of Oakland, 1736 Franklin St., Suite 200
Tumbao pop-up at Rocky’s Brooklyn Basin
Ever since the unveiling of the Brooklyn Basin development, which includes a public park, Oakland residents have flocked to the waterfront area for the views, greenspace and to mingle outdoors. On any given day, you can find families with kids, skaters, dancers, and musicians all enjoying the grounds. Dance parties have become one of the hottest events at this site, and this Saturday, DJ Juan Love of Tumbao Música Cubana is hosting a free salsa dance party. Whether you are a pro-salsa dancer or a newbie, if you like to move your feet, this one’s for you.
Saturday, July 31, 4 p.m. to 9 p.m., free, Brooklyn Basin, 288 9th Ave.
Courtney Martin discusses ‘Learning in Public’
Oaklandside education equity reporter Ashley McBride will moderate a conversation with Courtney Martin, an organizer, entrepreneur, and author of her new book, “Learning in Public: Lessons for a Racially Divided America from My Daughter’s School” (out on August 3). The book documents Martin’s story of finding a school for her daughter to attend in Oakland. While most of her white neighbors avoided the majority Black-enrolled schools, she chose differently, allowing her to dig deeper into racial issues in education locally and around the country, as well as to confront her own fears and assumptions about choosing the “right school.” This event is free for Commonwealth Club members. Once pre-registered, attendees will receive a link to tune in to the virtual conversation. Non-members can pay $5 for a ticket or $28 for a ticket, plus a copy of the book.
Tuesday, August 3, 6 p.m., free for members, $5-$28 for non-members, virtual, Commonwealth Club
