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Oakland’s got spirit! Over the past few years, Oakland has seen a wave of craft distilleries and spirit brands emerge, reviving an industry that hasn’t had a strong presence within the city since before Prohibition. Be sure to check out these local craft spirits during Oakland Cocktail Week (September 15-23) and

Oakland's thriving arts scene is reflective of the diversity and creativity that lives within the city and community. From fiery industrial art makers to bone breaking turf dancers, Oakland's artistry can also be found inside bars! 

Play the Drinking Timeline game with Oaklands saloons

1883 // Jack London toiled with his story ideas at Heinolds First and Last Chance Saloon. How much more illustrious can you get? A lot. Other patrons include President Taft, poet Joaquin Miller, and journalist Ambrose Bierce. Many of the dollars hanging on walls

Infamous for their long hours and long poured cocktails, dive bars are a great way to immerse yourself in Oakland’s diverse night-life culture. Though peculiar in appearance these hometown treasures offer a warm friendly atmosphere and, of course, well priced well drinks. 

Every first friday of the month in the heart of Koreantown-Northgate, you’ll find Oakland’s prominent street festival - a live representation of Oakland’s vibrant art scene, culture and community. Ripe with street performers, artist collectives, interactive art pop-ups, vendors, and food trucks there is plenty to see and do for everyone. Every month’s fair features a different artistic and cultural theme, so you are constantly seeing a new side of Oakland’s creatives. Come explore Oakland’s eclectic arts scene, get inspired and get full on delicious local food while you’re at it. 

Silence may be golden, but here in Oakland, we like a little more bass in our evenings. Oakland's music scene kicks it up with a large population of musicians; Kehlani, Mistah F.A.B., Too $hort, -- that have a variety of venues to play at, from stages that are merely a section of the bar floor to those places where the band is on a pedestal and the velvet curtains part.

Yes, they mostly glitter at night, whether from the gleaming terracotta Art Deco tiles or neon marquees. These still operational, gorgeous theaters are thriving hubs of Oakland entertainment. Do you think the cineplexes of the 1970s and 80s will ever be on the National Register and loved as deeply as we love these gems?

By Carol Canter   With its rich repertory of jazz from straight-ahead to cool, some sizzling Afro-Latin rhythms, down-home blues, R&B, folk and funk, Yoshis is not just Oaklands pride and joy but one of the nations and the worlds premier clubs.   Fans seek out the venue for its warm, intimate vibe, sleek design and superb acoustics. And, of course, the top-notch musicians.