The Oakland Museum of California (OMCA) has been a staple of the Oakland community since its foundation in 1969. OMCA’s collections span art, natural science and the history of California, making it a unique, ever-growing time capsule of the Golden State.
They also host a great shindig, including every Friday night, when Oakland residents and visitors alike can head over to the garden and amphitheater for a community-oriented good time.
Friday Nights at OMCA include dancing; crafting; local food; a bar with beer, wine and spirits; giant lawn games; and the chance to meet someone, or a bunch of someones, new.
As a newbie on the Oakland scene, crushing an old-fashioned glaze from Johnny Doughnuts at a garden picnic table and playing Giant Jenga—infinitely more fun than the table version—before a Caribbean dance party was an amazing way to connect with a new city. Spend Friday nights at OMCA; it’s never a disappointment.
Readers’ Picks
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Best Small Music Venue
Freight and Salvage
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Oakland PRIDE
Best Museum
Oakland Museum of CA
Best Festival
Black Joy Parade
Best Outdoor Art Event
First Fridays
Best Film Festival
Oakland International Film Festival
Best Theater Company
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Best Performing Dance Company
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Best Outdoor Music Venue
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Best Music Festival
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Best Theater Troupe⁄Performance
Central Works/Escape from the Asylum
Best Media Personality: TV, Radio, Print
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Best Dance Company
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Best Small Theater Company
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Best Ballet School
Conservatory of Classical Ballet
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Best Symphony
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Best Dance Studio
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Best Comedy Club
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Best Local Band
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Best Small/Quirky Museum
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Best Dance Instructor
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Best Latin Music Club
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Best Ballet Company
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Best Dance Club
Ashkenaz Berkeley