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Disney Magic and Funk Cinema: Oakland’s Best Community Events Today

AuthorEditorial Team
Published
February 26, 2026/08:00 AM
Section
Events
Disney Magic and Funk Cinema: Oakland’s Best Community Events Today

Oakland’s Thursday Lineup: From Ice Rinks to Art Galleries

As the final weekend of February 2026 approaches, Oakland is buzzing with a diverse array of community gatherings, high-energy performances, and cultural celebrations. Whether you are looking for a family outing or a creative night out with friends, today’s calendar offers something for everyone across the city’s most iconic venues.

Family Fun at Oakland Arena

The spotlight tonight is on the Oakland Arena, which hosts the opening night of Disney On Ice: Let’s Dance!. Starting at 6:30 PM, this high-energy production features beloved characters in a vibrant skating spectacle. It is the perfect mid-week treat for families and Disney fans of all ages, kicking off a multi-day run in The Town. Expect a festive atmosphere near the coliseum as fans gather for this long-awaited performance.

Arts and Culture at the OMCA

For those seeking a more creative evening, the Oakland Museum of California (OMCA) continues its popular ThursDates series from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM. This evening’s iteration features the "Watermelon Couch Pop-Up," an interactive project that invites visitors to share knowledge and stories within the museum’s Great Hall. Attendees can also participate in uninstructed live figure drawing sessions hosted by Sketchboard Co. or join The Mahjong Project at Town Fare for a night of traditional gaming and signature cocktails.

While at the museum, today is one of the final opportunities to view the acclaimed Black Spaces: Reclaim & Remain exhibition before it concludes its run. This installation traces the histories of resilience and creativity within East Bay Black communities through art and architecture.

Comedy and Local Cinema

  • Comedy Oakland: Head over to the Elbo Room Jack London at 8:00 PM for a night of laughs. This award-winning showcase features a mix of industry veterans and rising stars from the local scene.
  • Grand Lake Theater: The historic cinema is hosting a special Black History Month event titled We Want The Funk!. The evening includes a film screening followed by a live Q&A with the director. While the special event is highly sought after, the theater is also running regular screenings of Wuthering Heights and Send Help throughout the afternoon and evening.

Community Connections

Networking and niche interests take center stage at Temescal Brewing, which hosts the San Francisco Bay Area Nonprofit Tech Club Meet-Up from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM. This is a prime opportunity for nonprofit professionals to connect in a casual outdoor setting. Additionally, craft enthusiasts can join the Free Lunar New Year Craft Night at 6:00 PM, a community-led meetup perfect for those looking to celebrate the season through art.