February 12, 2012

California: Summer in Oakland

oakland California:  Summer in OaklandI’m in Oakland today.

I haven’t been here for a number of months, and it’s never been one of my favorite layovers.  What I noticed this afternoon, however, is how much the city has changed.  It seems there’s a new sense of vibrancy, and it just feels like a fun place to be.  Oakland?  Yep, Oakland.

Lots of things are going on in Oakland this summer, and you may want to check some of them out if you are in the area.

On Wednesday at noon, throughout the summer, there are free outdoor concerts at the Oakland City Center (13th & Broadway) as part of the Summer Sounds series. 

Third Thursday is a evening of art held, yes, you guessed it, on the third Thursday of every month.  The galleries and exhibition spaces stay open late, usually till 8 pm, to allow additional time for browsing and learning about art.  A couple dozen galleries, from Jack London Square to beyond Rockridge are involved.  Check out the map and listing of the galleries here.

On weekends, Friday-Sunday, you can check out the Oakland Artisan Marketplace.  Bay Area artists show their wares in various loctions throughout the weekend.  On Friday, its at Frank H. Ogawa Plaza (14th & Broadway), and Saturdayand Sunday at Jack London Square.

Now, it’s just too bad that I’m here on a Tuesday, and am missing all these fun opportunities.  I need someone to check them out and let me know!

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