Oakland Chinatown Night Market
Sat, Sep 13, 5–10pm @ 8th St.
(Broadway to Webster), Oakland
Free entry.

When night falls, Oakland’s Chinatown comes alive! This is the 2nd annual Night Market and it’s even bigger and brighter than before. Imagine two whole blocks packed with sizzling street food vendors, from dumplings and bao to skewers and boba tea, many hosted by beloved Chinatown eateries. There’s live music, cultural dance, and even a cool car show and basketball tournament earlier in the day. Families, friends, and foodies all mingle under lanterns and neon signs, rediscovering the neighborhood’s rich heritage. It’s a feast for the senses and a triumphant sign of community revival – don’t miss the chance to be part of this magical evening! 🏮🎶

Black-Eyed Pea Festival
Sat, Sep 13, 11am–6pm
Marston Campbell Park
(17th & West St), Oakland
Free

A heartfelt celebration of African American culture through food, art, and music. Now in its 10th year, this family-friendly festival is all about community unity. Enjoy live gospel, R&B, and jazz performances that will have you swaying, browse local artisans’ wares, and of course, taste delicious soul food (yes, plenty of black-eyed peas & greens!). Kids can get hands-on with crafts and drumming workshops, and everyone’s invited to join in African dance lessons. The atmosphere is uplifting and welcoming – like a giant neighborhood block party honoring traditions that feed the soul. Come for the peas, stay for the love! 🖤🎶

Solano Avenue Stroll
Sun, Sep 14, 10am–5pm
Solano Ave (Berkeley/Albany)
Free.

The East Bay’s biggest street festival (running since 1974) takes over a whole mile of Solano Avenue with an extravaganza of fun. This beloved annual Stroll is jam-packed with live entertainment on every block – think Taiko drummers, youth dance troupes, even a marching band or two. You’ll find over 100 artisan booths and local shops offering unique crafts, jewelry, and games for the kiddos. Foodies, rejoice: munch on everything from kettle corn and BBQ to dim sum and soft-serve ice cream as you wander. There’s also a mini-carnival zone with rides (yes, there’s a Ferris wheel!) and interactive activities for families. The Stroll is basically a giant neighborhood party celebrating local culture and small businesses – an East Bay tradition where everyone’s invited. Tip: Arrive early to find parking on side streets and catch the opening ceremony parade!

Concord Music & Market Series
Thurs, Sep 18, 6:30–8:00pm (market opens 4pm)
Todos Santos Plaza, Concord
Free

Spend a relaxing Thursday evening in Concord with live music in the park and a bustling farmers’ market. Starting late afternoon, Todos Santos Plaza comes alive with farm-fresh produce stands and food trucks. As the sun starts to set (6:30pm), the stage lights up for a free outdoor concert featuring a great Bay Area band. Past weeks have grooved to salsa, blues, Motown, you name it – whatever the genre this week, expect to see couples dancing on the grass and kids playing freely. Bring a picnic blanket, grab dinner from a food stall (hello, food truck tacos 🌮), and enjoy the friendly, laid-back vibe. It’s the perfect blend of community and chill to get a head-start on your weekend.

Berkeley Old Time Music Convention (BOTMC)
Wed–Sun, Sep 17–21, various times & venues in Berkeley
(many events free)

Calling all music lovers and anyone up for something a little different! The BOTMC is a five-day folk music festival celebrating Appalachia and Americana, right here in Berkeley. Throughout the week, you can catch free jam sessions and concerts featuring fiddles, banjos, and soulful old-time melodies. Highlights during Sept 17–19 include a kick-off square dance at Ashkenaz (where even newbies are welcome to grab a partner and learn some moves) and evening shows at the Freight & Salvage coffeehouse with renowned folk artists (ticketed, $25–30 for the big concerts). There’s even a string-band contest in the park and workshops if you’re musically inclined. Whether you’re a hardcore folk fan or just curious, the convention’s warm, down-home atmosphere will make you feel like you’ve stepped into a friendly front-porch jam session of yesteryear. 🎻🪕