Lunar New Year Parades and Vibrant Art Showings This Saturday in Oakland

Oakland Celebrates with Community Festivals and Fine Arts

This Saturday, February 28, 2026, Oakland is alive with cultural celebrations, bustling community markets, and a diverse array of performance arts. Whether you are looking to ring in the Year of the Horse or catch a world-class performance, the city offers a wealth of opportunities to engage with local culture and community spirit.

Community Festivals and Parades

The highlight of the weekend is the Oakland Chinatown Lunar New Year Parade. Hosted by the Oakland Chinatown Improvement Council, this beloved tradition fills the streets with vibrant dragon and lion dances, martial arts demonstrations, and community groups celebrating heritage. It is a fantastic opportunity to support local businesses and experience the heart of Chinatown.

In the Laurel District, residents can enjoy the Laurel Lunar New Year celebration. This neighborhood-focused event brings together local vendors and festive performances, offering a more intimate but equally lively way to welcome the new year. For those looking for morning activities, the Grand Lake Farmers Market at Grand Avenue and Lake Park Way remains the go-to Saturday destination. From 9:00 am to 2:00 pm, you can find fresh seasonal produce, artisanal baked goods, and handmade crafts while enjoying live music near the park.

Arts and Exhibitions

It is a significant day for the local art scene with several major exhibitions reaching milestones. Transmission Gallery is hosting the final day of its exhibition "Vessel," an exploration of ceramic forms and rituals. This is the last chance to view curated works from several Bay Area artists. Meanwhile, Faultline Gallery on MacArthur Boulevard debuts its "Women's+ 10xTEN" opening today, showcasing a diverse range of voices in contemporary art.

For a unique family experience, the Almanac Beer Co. is hosting "Puppet Wars" from 6:30 pm to 9:00 pm, blending creativity and performance in a community setting. Additionally, Art@Archer concludes its showcase of "The Art of Wally Fields" today, offering one last look at his unique and engaging creative contributions.

Evening Performances and Music

As evening falls, the entertainment options continue to expand. Disney On Ice: Let's Dance! takes over the Oakland Arena with multiple showtimes throughout the day, including a 6:30 pm performance perfect for families. Jazz and R&B enthusiasts can head to Yoshi's for a performance by Chico DeBarge at 7:30 pm, while Thee Stork Club hosts a concert featuring Candy Whips starting at 8:00 pm.

For those in the mood for laughter, Comedy Oakland returns to Quinn's Lighthouse with two distinct sets at 7:00 pm and 9:00 pm, featuring a rotating lineup of seasoned comedians. Finally, the Oakland Interfaith Gospel Choir will perform a special concert at Resurrection Oakland, promising an evening of uplifting and powerful music.