Oakland, California – As Black History Month draws to a close, the city is hosting a series of impactful events that celebrate Black culture, creativity, and community. After last weekend’s Black Joy Parade, the final days of February are filled with exciting activities for all ages, including family-friendly celebrations, art exhibitions, and musical performances that honor the achievements and contributions of African Americans.
One of the key highlights is the family celebration hosted by the East Oakland Youth Development Center (EOYDC), which has been providing essential services to Black and brown youth since 1978. The event will feature local vendors, live performances, food, and activities for the whole family, taking place on Friday, February 27, at 5 p.m. at 8200 International Blvd.
Additionally, the African American Quilt Guild of Oakland is hosting an engaging quilting event at the West Oakland Library on Saturday, February 28, from 1 to 3 p.m. This workshop, open to all ages and skill levels, allows participants to create quilt blocks while celebrating Black history and the craft of African American quilting traditions.
Another exciting event is the Lit Talk for the children’s book Kitty Caterpillar by Annabeth Bonder-Stone and Connor White. The authors, known for their Emmy-nominated television work, will be launching their new book at A Great Good Place for Books on Friday, February 27, at 5 p.m. The heartwarming story follows a kitten who imagines becoming a caterpillar, connecting with nature and its transformative powers. The event is free and open to the public.
To round out the month’s events, the Oakland Interfaith Gospel Choir will perform A Joyful Walk Through Gospel on Saturday, February 28, at 6:30 p.m. at Resurrection Church. This free concert will celebrate American gospel music with a diverse group of talented singers, honoring the rich tradition of gospel music in Black culture.
For music lovers, The Sound Room presents a tribute to John Mayer’s Grammy-winning album Continuum. Bay Area vocalist Amy D and singer-songwriter Ian Santillano, along with a live band, will perform Mayer’s iconic hits on Saturday, February 28, at 7:30 p.m. The event is priced at $39.19.
Jazz enthusiasts can enjoy a performance by Najee, the acclaimed saxophonist and flautist, at Yoshi’s on Thursday, February 26, and Friday, February 27. Najee will perform tracks from his new album Under the Moon Over the Sky, as well as classic hits from his long career. Tickets range from $42 to $89.
Looking ahead, Michelle Buteau, actress, comedian, and writer, will bring her stand-up comedy show, The Surviving and Thriving Tour, to Oakland’s Fox Theater on Friday, May 1. This event, rescheduled from November, offers a hilarious perspective on life and its challenges. Tickets are available from $66 to $80.
As Oakland wraps up Black History Month, these events provide a wonderful opportunity for residents and visitors to come together, celebrate, and reflect on the vibrant legacy of Black culture in the community. For more details on these events and others, visit The Oaklandside’s events calendar.
