Glowfari Lanterns and Creative Workshops: What’s On in Oakland Today
Illuminating Nights at the Oakland Zoo
Today, Tuesday, February 17, 2026, the Oakland Zoo continues its popular Glowfari lantern festival. This immersive experience transforms the zoo grounds into a glowing wonderland featuring hundreds of hand-painted silk lanterns. Visitors can wander through larger-than-life displays of animals, from deep-sea creatures to prehistoric dinosaurs. It is a family-friendly way to enjoy the evening air, with the light displays designed to celebrate biodiversity and the natural world. The event typically runs after sunset, providing a magical atmosphere for both kids and adults to explore the hills of Oakland under a neon canopy.
Fresh Finds at the Fruitvale Village Farmers Market
For those looking for fresh, local flavors, the Fruitvale Village Farmers Market is active today from 11:00 AM to 7:00 PM. Located at the vibrant Fruitvale Village, this market is a community staple that offers much more than just produce. Shoppers can find seasonal fruits and vegetables from regional farmers, artisanal crafts, and prepared foods that reflect the diverse culinary heritage of the neighborhood. It is an ideal spot for a midday stroll or to pick up fresh ingredients for dinner while supporting the local East Bay economy.
Creative Community at Ace Makerspace
If you are looking to get hands-on today, Ace Makerspace is hosting a Textiles Open Studio from 7:30 PM to 9:30 PM. Located on Lowell Street, this session is perfect for makers of all levels. Whether you are a beginner looking to learn the basics of a sewing machine or an expert working on a complex upholstery project, the open studio provides access to specialized equipment and a supportive community environment. It is a fantastic opportunity to work on personal craft projects and meet fellow Oakland creatives in a collaborative setting.
Tuesday Night Beats and Independent Cinema
As the sun sets, Oakland’s nightlife and arts scene come alive. Hello Stranger on Broadway hosts its signature Tuesday night party, The After, starting at 10:00 PM. Resident DJs Sean G and Popit4Slim provide a soundtrack of R&B, hip-hop, and afrobeats, creating a high-energy space for the local community to connect. For a more relaxed evening, The New Parkway Theater offers a unique cinema experience with its cozy couch seating. Today’s schedule includes screenings of Wuthering Heights and the highly anticipated 28 Years Later: The Bone Temple. Between the vibrant dance floors and the local silver screen, there is no shortage of ways to spend your Tuesday night in The Town.