The forecast predicts another round of summer heat, and we have plenty of ways to enjoy the outdoors this weekend. Grab your sunscreen and comfortable shoes and check out the highlighted events for this week’s roundup.
Have an event that you’d like to promote on our calendar? You can use the self-submission form. Is there something you’d like me to consider highlighting in this weekly roundup? Email me at azucena@oaklandside.org.
Circus Bella’s Flip * Flop * Fly *
Who doesn’t love the circus? Circus Bella, the Bay Area’s premiere one-ring circus, has one more show in Oakland before wrapping up its 2022 season. The free summer performances in parks and open spaces feature an outdoor ring, the Rob Reich & The Circus Bella All-Star Band, and the Circus Bella company. Many of the Circus Bella performers live in the Bay Area, part of the organization’s commitment to employing local talent. Don’t miss your chance to check out this one-of-a-kind circus show.
Friday, July 8, 6 p.m., free ($20 suggested donation), Studio One Arts Center, 365 45th St.
Centennial Summer Discount Days at the Oakland Zoo
The Oakland Zoo is celebrating its first 100 years by offering $2 off regular zoo admission Tuesdays through Thursdays after 12 p.m. for the whole month of July. The zoo is home to more than 850 native and exotic animals. It also provides refuge to rescued animals. In June, the zoo welcomed two female big cats, the last four survivors of a troubled roadside petting zoo in northeastern Oklahoma. Stop by to see how Lola and Mia are adjusting to their life in Oakland.
Tuesdays through Thursdays in July, $2 off regular pricing, Oakland Zoo, 9777 Golf Links Rd.
Live music at Pablo’s Alley
Every Tuesday and Thursday, Frank Ogawa/Oscar Grant plaza transforms into an outdoor hub with live music. Pablo’s Alley is a new initiative of the Downtown Oakland Community Benefit District, Oakland Central, and Rubicon Point Partners. The goal is to help support the businesses around the area by providing entertainment at the plaza that will draw in more visitors. On Tuesdays, you can get your lunch outdoors while enjoying different weekly performances. On Thursdays, you can spend your after-work time at the plaza as well. You can check out the entire lineup for the month. This Thursday, Brazilian roots reggae band Os Cocos will provide live music.
Tuesdays, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m, and Thursdays, 4 p.m. to 8 p.m., Frank Ogawa Plaza, 1 Frank H. Ogawa Plaza
Hike and sip at Chabot Space and Science Center
If you enjoy hiking trails throughout the Bay Area and want a fun date night or a night out with friends, this event is for you! The event begins with a moderate hike of roughly 3-4 miles where you’ll learn about the history of local flora and fauna surrounding the majestic redwood trees. You’ll also get to check out the stars and constellations before heading back to Chabot. Once back, a charcuterie board and two complimentary (alcoholic or non-alcoholic) beverages await hikers. The night will end with a telescope viewing if the fog allows.
Friday, July 8 and Saturday, July 9, 6:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m., $30 ($27 for members), Chabot Space and Science Center, 10000 Skyline Blvd.
Bahiana Social Club’s one-year anniversary
Outdoor day parties are all the rage, especially in the summer, and for the past year, the Bahiana Social Club has provided one of the most popular Oakland happenings. The Sunday party, called El Callejon, has featured an array of DJs and food popups to keep hungry dancers happy. To celebrate its first anniversary, the Bahiana team is bringing back the first DJ who launched the Sunday party, Bay Area’s J. Espinosa. DJ Nosa and DJ and producer Baywav will also be behind the turntables. If you get hungry, Original Poes will be there to feed you. Get your dancing shoes on and head over to Level 13 to dance the afternoon into the sunset.
Sunday, July 10, 3 p.m. to 8 p.m., $10, Level 13, 341 13th St.
