Looking for the coolest things to do at the beginning of the fall season? From Labor Day to the autumnal equinox, we’ve got you covered. We’ve done the deep research for you on the best things to do in the East Bay including museums, cultural events, food tours and more. Speaking of food — we also have an extensive list of our best restaurants in the East Bay, and if you’re planning a weekend, the best places to stay. There are so many things to do in the East Bay this September.
No need to bundle up in the East Bay during this month, temperature averages are in the 70s.
Featured photo courtesy of Dock of the Bay Festival.
Dates TBD
Yearning for a plant-based food event? Or maybe you’re a curious eater looking to speed-run the offerings of the Bay Area’s vegan food producers… Either way, this food festival at Berkeley’s Martin Luther King Jr. Civic Center Park promises a packed afternoon of vendors, performances and flavors from South America, Asia, the Caribbean and Southern soul food. Add in a kids zone, vegan designers fashion show and a spicy “hot wings” eating contest, and this afternoon makes for an ideal family-friendly excursion in the East Bay that weekend.
Dates TBD
Every month, Oakland turns out for a multi-block community party called First Fridays, and September’s party adds a whole new dimension with Korean Culture Fest. Fan dancing, taekwondo demonstrations, music from traditional instruments and fantastic Korean food will be incorporated into the evening. Make a night out of it and take a trip to some of downtown Oakland’s hip bars while you’re out there.
Dates TBD
Learn about the innovative social community programs pioneered by Oakland’s legendary “Power to the People” party in the 1960s in a downtown walking tour led by party alumni. Currently, walks are led by original party member Dr. Saturu Ned, who will take attendees through historic locations and recall true stories about the party and its principles.
Dates TBD
Soul, funk and R&B line Vallejo’s waterfront for this day-long music festival at Mare Island. Stellar headliners like Average White Band, the Commodores, Lenny Williams and Heatwave will have you grooving in between bites of dishes from the Chef de Cuisine Food Court. You can even explore the island’s historic coal sheds — abandoned by the Navy over 100 years ago in favor of diesel — which have been converted into cocktail lounges and VIP areas.
Dates TBD
At one of the largest annual festivals in Contra Costa County, stroll among the booths of art and handmade crafts, enjoy foods from local restaurants, food vendors and food trucks, sip on quality wines and microbrews and pause to enjoy continuous music on four stages.
Dates TBD
Chabot Space and Science Center hosts a number of “Sip” events throughout its monthly calendar, and this “Hike and Sip” connects nature, space and libations for one pleasant, late-summer evening. First, a sunset hike takes guests through the surrounding redwoods with an expert naturalist. Then, the party winds up at the space center’s Observation Deck, where you’ll stargaze by eye and by telescope while partaking in light bites and drinks.
