Black Joy Parade and Scenic Waterfront Markets Highlight Oakland Today

Celebrate Community and Culture in the Town

This Sunday, February 22, 2026, Oakland is buzzing with energy as the city hosts one of its most anticipated annual traditions alongside a variety of local markets and artistic showcases. Whether you are looking for a morning stroll through a neighborhood market or a high-energy afternoon celebration of local heritage, there is a wealth of verified activities to fill your day.

The 9th Annual Black Joy Parade and Festival

The centerpiece of today’s schedule is the 9th annual Black Joy Parade. This hyper-local celebration is a staple of the downtown community, designed to showcase Black business, art, and music. The procession is scheduled to begin at 12:30 PM at the intersection of 14th Street and Broadway. Thousands of participants and spectators are expected to line the route, which moves through the heart of the city toward its conclusion at Broadway and Grand Avenue. Following the parade, the festivities continue with a public festival until 7:00 PM, featuring over 200 Black-owned vendors, live performance stages, and family-friendly zones like the Lil Joy area for children.

Morning at the Farmers Markets

Before the afternoon parade, residents can enjoy the bounty of the East Bay at several local farmers markets. The Temescal Farmers Market, held in the DMV parking lot on Claremont Avenue, is open from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM, offering fresh seasonal produce and local artisanal crafts. Simultaneously, the Montclair Village Farmers Market provides a scenic shopping experience on La Salle Avenue between Mountain and Moraga Avenues until 1:00 PM. For those closer to the water, the Jack London Square Farmers Market opens at 11:00 AM and runs until 4:00 PM, providing the perfect opportunity to grab local snacks before heading to the parade route.

Art and Evening Entertainment

For a more reflective experience, the Oakland Museum of California (OMCA) is hosting a special viewing of its current exhibition, Black Spaces: Reclaim & Remain. The exhibit explores histories of displacement and resistance within local Black communities and is a poignant stop during Black History Month. As the sun begins to set, the activities shift to the shoreline. At 4:00 PM, the Reggae on the Bay Sunset Cruise departs from Jack London Square, offering a three-hour journey with views of the San Francisco skyline. Finally, for those looking for a laugh to end the weekend, the Laugh City Comedy Show kicks off at 8:00 PM at Sessions on 15th, featuring a lineup of local stand-up talent.