Oakland, CA – The Joy to The Town holiday campaign is encouraging both residents and visitors to take part in a variety of seasonal events and support local businesses throughout Oakland. The city, recognized for its diversity and creative energy, will host numerous holiday activities across its neighborhoods. These include artisan markets, live music performances, family-friendly gatherings, and culinary experiences.
Peter Gamez, President and CEO of Visit Oakland, said: “Oakland was recently voted one of the Top 10 Best Small Cities in the U.S. by Condé Nast Traveler readers because of our history, diverse culture, ideal location, and welcoming community. The holidays are a wonderful time to visit Oakland and experience the warmth and genuine spirit that make The Town so special. With numerous festive events, it’s the perfect opportunity to stay overnight and enjoy all that Oakland has to offer.”
The campaign highlights several key events:
– Tree lightings at Jack London Square on November 29th and at Claremont Club & Spa on December 3rd.
– Glowfari at the Oakland Zoo runs through January 25th.
– Holiday markets such as the Joy to the Town! Holiday Market on December 6th at Jack London Square will feature shopping, skating, live music from acts like Ray Obiedo Latin Jazz Ensemble with Pete Escovedo, Santa visits with free photos, and more.
– The Black Holiday Shopping Experience takes place on December 7th.
– Adults-Only Holiday Night Market at Children’s Fairyland is set for December 12th.
– The annual Oakland Coffee Market happens on December 14th at the Rotunda Building.
Oakland’s dining scene has been recognized nationally; it was named the best food city in the United States. Restaurants and bars across neighborhoods will participate in seasonal celebrations such as the Joy to The Town Restaurant & Bar Holiday Hop on December 5th and special dinners like Black Vines Wine Dinner with Chef Nelson German at alaMar on December 7th.
Music venues including Paramount Theatre, Fox Theater, Yoshi’s, and New Parrish will host performances from artists like Sheila E., John Legend, Con Funk Shun as well as local groups such as the Oakland Interfaith Gospel Choir—whose annual concert is scheduled for December 6th—and others like the Oakland Gay Men’s Chorus (December 12–13) and a tribute concert by the Oakland Symphony (December 14).
Theatergoers can attend STOMP’s anniversary tour shows at Henry J. Kaiser Auditorium (December 6–7) or Graham Lustig’s Nutcracker with performances by Piedmont East Bay Children’s Choir alongside Oakland Symphony (December 20–21).
Family-oriented activities include cookie decorating with Mrs. Claus (December 3rd), photos with Santa during festival days (December 6th), or Cruises with Santa aboard U.S.S. Potomac (December 14th). Vintage enthusiasts can explore over forty shops offering retro fashion items and collectibles.
Visitors who book two-night hotel stays in Oakland will receive tickets to select holiday events such as Glowfari at the zoo or concerts by local choirs or symphonies.
The Joy to The Town campaign is a collaborative effort between Visit Oakland, City of Oakland officials, and the Oakland Metropolitan Chamber of Commerce. More information about event schedules and resources for supporting small businesses can be found at VisitOakland.com/holidays/.
Visit Oakland operates as a non-profit organization promoting tourism in Oakland by providing complimentary services for travelers interested in exploring what the city offers.
