Book Arts, Lunar New Year Festivities, and Grateful Dead Tributes in Oakland Today
A Vibrant Saturday in the Town
Welcome to your Saturday guide for February 7, 2026. Whether you are a dedicated bibliophile, a music lover, or looking for community-focused cultural celebrations, Oakland is brimming with activity today. From the shores of Lake Merritt to the bustling heart of Chinatown, here is what is happening across the city.
Grand Lake Farmers Market
Start your morning at the historic Splashpad Park for the Grand Lake Farmers Market. Operating from 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM, this Saturday institution remains the premier spot in the East Bay for fresh organic produce and artisanal goods. You can browse over 40 local farms and 30 specialty food purveyors. In addition to seasonal fruits and vegetables, expect to find local artisans selling jewelry and crafts, often accompanied by live music from local street performers near the fountain.
CODEX X: International Biennial Book Art Fair
For those interested in the intersection of literature and fine art, the Oakland Marriott City Center is hosting the CODEX Book Art Fair. Today from 12:30 PM to 5:30 PM, the West Ballroom will be filled with practitioners, collectors, and enthusiasts of the art of the book. This international event features exhibitors showcasing fine press publications, handmade paper, and unique bookbindings. It is a rare opportunity to see exemplary works where craft and concept unite into high-level art.
Lunar New Year x Black History Month Solidarity
The Oakland Asian Cultural Center is hosting a unique multicultural event today from 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM. This special celebration highlights the solidarity between the Asian and African American communities. Visitors can enjoy cultural demonstrations, live performances, and interactive activities that bridge these two rich heritages. It is a family-friendly way to honor both the Lunar New Year and African American History Month in one space.
Evening Music: Dark Star Orchestra at the Fox
The iconic Fox Theater invites music fans for a night of deep improvisation with the Dark Star Orchestra. Starting at 7:30 PM, this world-renowned tribute band will be meticulously recreating a historic setlist from the Grateful Dead. Known for their era-specific equipment and uncanny ability to capture the sound of different decades, the band provides an immersive experience for those looking to celebrate the legacy of the Dead in a grand, historic setting.
Art Exhibitions and Local Treasures
Art lovers should head to the Mercury 20 Gallery on 25th Street, as today is the final opportunity to view two juried exhibitions: "Mapping Time" and "On Material Ground." The gallery is open until 5:00 PM. Additionally, the White Elephant Sale Warehouse on Lancaster Street is holding its open warehouse hours from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM, offering a chance to hunt for eclectic local finds and collectibles.