Coogler’s Vampire Epic in 70mm and Festive Food Truck Nights in Oakland Today

A Landmark Cinematic Event and Community Culture

Oakland is buzzing this Friday, February 27, 2026, as the local community comes together to celebrate homegrown talent and cultural milestones. Whether you are looking for a rare cinematic experience, late-night museum access, or a cozy storytelling session, the city has a vibrant lineup of verified events to kick off the weekend.

Film and Theater: Coogler Returns to the Town

The headline event today is the special 70mm screening of Sinners at the historic Grand Lake Theatre. Directed by Oakland’s own Ryan Coogler and starring Michael B. Jordan, this tale of vampires in the Jim Crow South is a massive local hit. The 7:35 p.m. showing offers a rare opportunity to see the film in high-fidelity 70mm, a format that highlights the rich imagery of this Academy Award-nominated epic. This screening is expected to be a major draw for local film enthusiasts and supporters of Coogler’s work.

For fans of the eerie and the underground, the Itty Bitty Horror Podcast is hosting a screening of the 1940 cult classic The Devil Bat. The event takes place at the Mother Tongue Cafe & Bar starting at 7:00 p.m. It is a perfect meetup for horror enthusiasts looking to mingle and enjoy vintage cinema in a relaxed social setting.

Museums and Night Markets

The Oakland Museum of California (OMCA) continues its beloved tradition of Friday Nights at OMCA. From 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m., the museum campus transforms into a lively community hub featuring Off the Grid food trucks serving a diverse range of local cuisines. Beyond the food, visitors can enjoy late-night access to the galleries, including the current exhibition Black Spaces: Reclaim & Remain, which is entering its final days before closing on March 1. The night also features live music and hands-on workshops, making it a staple for anyone seeking a blend of art and entertainment.

Comedy and Community Meetups

If you are looking for laughs, Comedy Oakland is taking over Quinn’s Lighthouse on the waterfront. The show begins at 7:30 p.m. and features a diverse lineup of industry professionals and rising stars in a venue known for its unique nautical atmosphere. Additionally, a free Oakland Black History Comedy Night is scheduled for 9:00 p.m., offering a high-energy wrap-up to the month's celebrations.

For a more reflective evening, Preservation Park will host a Black History Fireside Chat at the Thornton House. This intimate community gathering provides a space for storytelling and discussion centered on the braided histories of resistance and resilience in the East Bay.

Family and Storytelling

Earlier in the day, families can head to the shores of Lake Merritt for Fairyland Toddler Storytime at 699 Bellevue. It is a wonderful way for the city’s youngest residents to engage with literature and the outdoors in one of Oakland's most iconic settings.