The one event not to miss out on this weekend is the annual Dia De Los Muertos festival in Fruitvale which brings live music, community-made altars, vendors, and the chance to experience how the Mexican American community honors its deceased loved ones. It is also a great opportunity to patronize the long-standing businesses in the neighborhood, most of which are immigrant owned.
If you would like us to consider an event for this weekly list, please email me at azucena@oaklandside.org. You can also use the self-submission form on our events page to add events to our calendar for free.
Author John Freeman discusses ‘California Rewritten’ at Clio’s
Author John Freeman, the editor at Alfred A. Knopf’s publishing house, just debuted his book “California Rewritten: A Journey Through the Golden State’s New Literature” (HeyDay Books). Credit: courtesy of HeyDay Books
Tommy Orange in conversation with author John Freeman Author John Freeman, the editor at Alfred A. Knopf’s publishing house, just debuted his book “California Rewritten: A Journey Through the Golden State’s New Literature” (HeyDay Books). The book explores the influence of California writers on literature in recent decades. Freeman will be in conversation with recently announced MacArthur fellow and Oakland author Tommy Orange.
Wednesday, Oct. 29, 7 p.m., limited tickets still available, Clio’s Books, 353 Grand Ave.
Author Alex Werth discusses ‘On Loop’
Author Alex Werth will discuss his new book “On Loop: Black Sonic Politics in Oakland” at various events throughout the Bay Area. Credit: Red Pencil Publicity
Author Alex Werth wears many hats as a geographer with a Phd from UC Berkeley, a DJ, and a housing advocate. Now, Werth is unveiling his book, “On Loop: Black Sonic Politics in Oakland” (UC Press). In his book, Werth argues that social science and public debate “literally overlook the ways that popular music and sound cultures animate the politics of race and space.” He’s currently in town for a series of events throughout the Bay until Nov. 2.
Thursday, Oct. 30, 6 p.m., Oakland Main Library, 125 14th St., Sunday, Nov. 2, 6 p.m., Chapter 510, 546 9th St.
30th annual Oakland Día de Los Muertos
Marilu Boytes, 37, left, and her niece Avida Boytes, 9, make paper marigolds during the Dia de los Muertos Festival in Fruitvale on Sunday, Nov. 3, 2024. Credit: Estefany Gonzalez for The Oaklandside
This year’s festival in Fruitvale is themed “Aquí estamos y no nos vamos” (We’re here and we’re not leaving), in response to anti-immigrant rhetoric and policies of the Trump administration. The festival is celebrating its 30th anniversary with colorful and fragrant altars for deceased loved ones, local vendors, and live music — all while shining a light on The Town’s Latino enclave.
Sunday, Nov. 2, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., free, International Boulevard between Fruitvale Avenue and High Street
Hot Tickets in The Town this week: Oakland Ballet’s 60th anniversary gala and ‘Luna Mexicana’
Jazmine Quezada in Oakland Ballet’s “Luna Mexicana.” Credit: courtesy of Jordan Park
The Oakland Ballet, under the creative guidance of Graham Lustig, is celebrating a huge milestone, and also trying to raise $360,000 to help support the ballet’s work. In addition to the gala and a new season, the popular show “Luna Mexicana” takes place this weekend.
Saturday, Nov. 1, 2:30 p.m. for the show, $54.30, 4 p.m. for the gala, $225, Paramount Theatre, 2025 Broadway
Coming soon to The Town: The New Edition Way Tour
Graphic courtesy of the Oakland Arena
The new year will kick off with various events at the Oakland Arena including bringing together 90s R&B music legends: New Edition, Boyz II Men, and Toni Braxton.
Wednesday, Jan. 28, 8 p.m., tickets go on sale on Thursday, Oct. 31 at 10 a.m., Oakland Arena, 7000 Coliseum Way
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