✨ Ring in the New Year
That space between Christmas and New Year’s has its own kind of magic — quieter days, thoughtful moments, and just enough celebration to welcome what’s next. Whether you’re planning a night out, easing into 2026, or keeping things simple, here’s what’s happening around the East Bay this week.
📅 This Week at a Glance
🎆 New Year’s Eve Fireworks & Waterfront Celebrations
🥂 Low-Key NYE Dinners & Live Music
🌲 First Day Hikes (Jan 1)
🎨 Post-Holiday Art Exhibits & Museum Days
🛍 Fresh-Start Markets & Small Business Strolls
🎬 Cozy Winter Movies & Theater Nights
Scroll for full details 👇
Spotlight:
🌟 First Day Hikes – Start 2026 Outdoors
📍 East Bay Regional Parks
🗓️ Thursday, Jan 1
💵 Free
Kick off the New Year with a breath of fresh air. The East Bay Regional Park District hosts guided and self-guided hikes across dozens of parks — from gentle waterfront walks to scenic hilltop trails.
🎨 EVENTS THIS WEEK
🎆 New Year’s Eve Fireworks at Midnight
📍 Jack London Square, Embarcadero, Local waterfronts
🗓️ Dec 31 | Midnight
🎟️ Free
Celebrate the countdown with fireworks reflected over the water. Many viewing areas offer plenty of space to gather, making it easy to enjoy the moment without packed crowds.
🥂 New Year's Eve Dance Party
📍 La Peña Cultural Center
🗓️ Dec 31
🎟️ $35
This event offers a vibrant, community-focused New Year's Eve celebration that emphasizes live music and participatory dance, mirroring the community atmosphere of Ashkenaz.
🎆 New Year's Eve Reflections at Del Valle
📍Del Valle Regional Park
⏰ Dec 31 | 4:00 PM to 5:30 PM
🎟️ Free
All bathroom buildings and many water fountains are wheelchair accessible. The family campground has two wheelchair accessible campsites. Paved and gently sloped paths include portions of the Westshore and Eastshore trails.
🛍 Danville Farmers' Market
📍 205 Railroad Avenue, Danville, California
⏰ Dec 27 | 9:00 AM - 1:00 PM
🎟️ Free
Stroll through this certified year-round market featuring fresh produce, baked goods, jams, and goods from local vendors. It is a true community gathering focused on supporting small, local businesses.
🎤 Frank Sinatra and Friends New Year's Eve Spectacular at Aloma Cinema Grill
📍 Aloma Cinema Grill
⏰ December 31 | 8:00 PM
🎟️ $5
Ring in the New Year and dance to classic hits with a big screen ball drop, party favors, and a champagne toast and balloon drop at midnight!
📍201 Washington St, Oakland, CA |⏰ December 31, 2025 | The restaurant will be closed for lunch on New Year’s Eve | 🎟️ Dishes are around $30–$45 per person
Known for its intimate, Victorian-style ambiance and classic American-Mediterranean menu. The restaurant is famously decked out with festive holiday decor for the end of the year.
Gone are the days of having to call in or wait in line to place your order. Our restaurant now offers the convenience of online ordering through our website, making it quick and easy to get your food.
❤️ Give Back as the Year Closes
End the year on a meaningful note:
Year-End Donations:
Contribute to local food banks, shelters, and housing programs to help families and individuals in need during the winter months. Your donations can provide meals, warm clothing, and essential supplies for those facing hardship.Neighborhood Cleanups:
Organize or participate in community cleanups before winter storms. Clearing debris, leaves, and trash helps prevent flooding, keeps streets safe, and maintains a healthier environment for everyone.Support Local Businesses:
Local drives often accept donations through December 24. Giving toys, books, or gift cards helps ensure children and families experience joy during the holidays, regardless of their financial situation.
🏠 Just Listed: East Bay Homes You’ll Love
1079 Portofino Ave, Vacaville, CA, 95687
3 BEDS | 3 BATH | 1,229 SQFT
Move-in ready 3 bed, 2.5 bath residence located in the desirable Portofino neighborhood. Enjoy peace of mind by keeping utility bills low year-round with energy efficient solar panels. View photos & details
25912 Hayward Boulevard #106, Hayward, CA 94542
2 BED | 2 BATH | 1,203 SQFT
Bright and updated Canyon Oaks condo minutes from Cal State East Bay. With over 1,200 sq ft., this home features new flooring and fixtures, an open layout with a galley kitchen, abundant storage, and a cozy fireplace. View photos & details
1064 Mohr Ln #C, Concord, CA 94518
2 BED | 1 BATH | 870 SQFT
This well-maintained back-unit condo offers 2 bedrooms and 1 full bath across 870 square feet in the tucked-away Del Rio Community. View photos & details
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🌟 Catch You Next Week...
Hope this edition brings you fresh ideas, new places to explore, and a few warm pockets of joy this week. From lighted boats to candlelit music, the East Bay has a way of making December feel magical.
Stay local & stay inspired,
Ryan DeAmaral
Co-Writer, Twin Oaks Insider