Mother Nature is threatening the East Bay with a chance of rain all through the week, so keep those raincoats and umbrellas handy for any outdoor egg hunts or other activities. Besides Easter events, we are also highlighting the boycott block party coinciding with Major League Baseball’s Opening Day, when loyal Oakland fans will gather to denounce the Athletics’ upcoming move to Las Vegas. There’s also a bull riding competition and a night of R&B dancing.
If there’s something you’d like me to consider for this weekly list, email me at azucena@oaklandside.org. And if you want to promote something on our calendar, you can use the self-submission form on our events page.
Opening Day Boycott Block Party
The Oakland 68’s, a local nonprofit started by A’s fans known for taking over the right field bleachers at the Coliseum, and the Last Dive Bar, an apparel brand also started by hardcore A’s fans, successfully hosted a Fans Fest on Feb. 24 to denounce the Athletics moving to Las Vegas. Now, on Opening Day, the two groups are banding together again for an Opening Day Block Party. Rather than going to the game, fans plan on gathering at the Coliseum’s parking lot B, where there will be live music, giveaways, and other entertainment. The plan is for fans to tailgate at the parking lot and not support the Athletics by attending any games this season, which could be the last in Oakland. While the parking lot opens four hours ahead of the first pitch, this time around, gates will be open only two hours ahead. A concert will also happen at the Oakland Arena next door; plan accordingly for this dual event.
Thursday, March 28, 5 p.m., free to attend, Coliseum parking lot B, 7000 S Coliseum Way
The R&B story party at Zanzi
If you’re looking for a place to dance the night away, look no further than Zanzi. The two-floor lounge opened in the spring of 2021 after the previous occupant, Era Lounge, shuttered. This Friday, DJs Lexx Jones, Sean G, and Grammy-award nominated DC is Chillin’ will be behind the turntables to keep everyone on the dance floor to the tunes of R&B.
Friday, March 30, 10 p.m., free to $20, 19 Grand Ave.
Take selfies with the Easter Bunny at Jack London Square
The Easter Bunny will be at Jack London Square for one last Saturday to take photos with children before egg hunting and other Easter activities. Parents can take pictures with their own phones or cameras free of charge. Starting on April 7, the JLS will have Jazz workshops, an art festival, and four Waterfront Flicks movie events through the summer.
Saturday, March 30, 12 p.m. to 4 p.m., 472 Water St. across from PLANK
Fairyland’s Bunny Weekend
Fairyland is hosting a two-day Easter event called Bunny Weekend. During this event, children can participate in hopscotch, popsicle, and puppet making. Critters by the Bay will make an appearance, and on Saturday, the Tap Dancing Bunnies will perform. There will also be a unique egg hunt.
Saturday, March 30 and Sunday March 31, free for members, $5 and $16, 699 Bellevue Ave.
Pendleton Whiskey Velocity Tour
Not to be confused with a rodeo, the Pendleton Whisky Velocity Tour is a bull-riding competition in which the riders have 8 seconds to compete against the fiercest bulls. Expect music, lighting, and other special effects.
Saturday, March 30, 7 p.m., see Ticketmaster for ticket pricing, 7000 S Coliseum Way