Afro-Cuban Jazz and Tabletop Gaming: What’s On in Oakland Today

Midweek Mastery and Community Connection

Welcome to your Wednesday guide for Oakland. Today, February 11, 2026, the city offers a rich tapestry of cultural expression, from world-class Afro-Cuban jazz to local indie cinema and community-driven meetups. Whether you are looking to network for your next career move or unwind with a sketchbook in hand, Oakland’s local venues have a full schedule of verified events to keep your Wednesday vibrant.

Live Music and Soulful Rhythms

The legendary Yoshi’s Oakland at Jack London Square remains the heart of the local music scene tonight. Master percussionist Pedrito Martínez joins forces with pianist Alfredo Rodríguez for a special duo performance. This pair is renowned for blending traditional Afro-Cuban folkloric music with contemporary jazz improvisation. Their set is scheduled for 8:00 PM, providing a sophisticated atmosphere for those looking to experience high-energy, world-class musicianship in an intimate setting.

Cinema, Gaming, and Creativity

The New Parkway Theater in Uptown is the place to be for those who prefer participatory community events. On the mezzanine, two free weekly favorites return tonight. At 7:00 PM, gamers can join Drinking & Dragons, a drop-in Dungeons & Dragons session perfect for both veterans and newcomers. Shortly after at 7:30 PM, the Oakland Drink and Draw meetup invites artists of all skill levels to share space, sketch, and enjoy local brews.

The cinema screens also feature a diverse lineup, including several titles that are scheduled to end their runs tonight. Film enthusiasts can catch No Other Choice at 5:45 PM, followed by the final screenings of All That's Left of You at 6:15 PM and the indie film Obex at 9:15 PM.

Comedy and Culture

The Henry J. Kaiser Center for the Arts is hosting the Black Comedy Competition & Festival 2026. Running throughout the week, tonight's sessions spotlight emerging comedic talent as part of a city-wide celebration of Black History Month. Meanwhile, at the Oakland Museum of California (OMCA), visitors can explore the final weeks of the Black Spaces: Reclaim & Remain exhibition. This powerful collection navigates the history of resilience and community in the East Bay through art and archival research.

Community and Special Notices

• Career Fair: The BAY AREA In-Person Community Employment Day takes place at the Alameda County Training & Education Center starting at 11:00 AM, offering a vital resource for local job seekers.
• Love Letters at OAK: For those traveling today, the Oakland San Francisco Bay Airport is concluding its special Valentine's Day activation. Travelers can find themed postcards and drop boxes at select gates to send free love letters across the country.
• Glowfari: The Oakland Zoo’s immersive light show, Glowfari, remains open for evening visitors, featuring massive glowing animal lanterns throughout the park.

From the rhythmic beats at Yoshi's to the community tables at the New Parkway, today is a perfect example of the diverse and creative spirit that defines Oakland.