Taiko Drums, Soul Legends, and a Grand Reopening in Oakland Today

A Historic Celebration at the HJK Center

Today marks a monumental moment for Oakland's cultural landscape as the Henry J. Kaiser (HJK) Center for the Arts hosts its Grand Reopening and "The Opening Festival." Known historically as the city's "Cathedral of Culture," the venue at 10 10th Street invites the public to a free community celebration from 9:30 AM to 1:00 PM. The festivities kick off with a grand ribbon-cutting ceremony at 9:45 AM, followed by a series of high-energy performances that showcase the diverse talent of the Town.

• Maikaze Daiko: Experience the thunderous power of Taiko drumming and a traditional Lion Dance to welcome the new era of the center.
• Prescott Circus Theatre: Enjoy high-flying stilt-walking and circus arts performed by local youth.
• Turf Feinz: Witness the fluid, storytelling movement of Oakland’s legendary turf dancing crew.
• The Puppet Company: Randal Metz presents “Mae Lin and the Magic Brush,” a classic tale perfect for families.
• Architectural Tours: Take a guided tour to explore the 1914 Beaux-Arts beauty of this landmark building.

Fresh Flavors at the Grand Lake Farmers Market

For those looking to start their Saturday with local flavors, the Grand Lake Farmers Market is in full swing at Splash Pad Park. Running from 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM, this year-round institution features over 100 vendors. Visitors can browse organic produce, specialty crafts, and prepared foods ranging from artisanal pastries to fresh dim sum. It remains the premier spot in the East Bay for community gathering and supporting local small-scale farmers and makers.

Soulful Evening Performances

As the sun sets, Oakland’s historic theaters take center stage with a heavy-hitting lineup of R&B and soul legends. The Paramount Theatre hosts the "Room 112 Tour" at 8:00 PM, featuring the multi-platinum group 112 along with Total and Case for a night of classic 90s soul. Meanwhile, at Jack London Square, the iconic venue Yoshi’s welcomes the legendary Tower of Power. The group brings its world-renowned "Oakland Soul" and signature horn section to the stage for a high-energy performance starting at 7:30 PM.

Art and History at OMCA

The Oakland Museum of California (OMCA) offers a quieter but equally compelling Saturday experience with several major exhibitions. Today is a perfect opportunity to visit "Mildred Howard: Poetics of Memory," the first career survey of the renowned local artist. Additionally, visitors can explore "BeHere / 1942," a tech-enhanced look at the Japanese American incarceration, or the immersive "Black Spaces: Reclaim & Remain" gallery before its 2026 closing cycle.