This week, we’ve rounded up some holiday markets and concerts to get you in the mood. We will also be hosting the Afro Comic Con International Film Festival, which is a non-holiday event. Attendees will have the opportunity to view and hear from up-and-coming filmmakers. People who were at the screening.
If you would like us to consider putting together this event, please email azucena@oaklandside.org. Also, if you want to promote something on your calendar, you can use the self-posting form on your event page.
Afro Comic Con International Film Festival
comedy web series Sirius Lee The film, from Auckland writer and producer Theo Hollingsworth, is one of a number of African-centric film projects to be screened at the Regal Jack London Cinema this weekend as part of the AfroComic Con International Film Festival. It’s just that. The lineup includes everything from documentaries to spine-chilling horror, mind-boggling sci-fi, visually stunning animation, captivating fantasy, and impactful social justice journeys. It is. Get ready to visit Jack London Square and the surrounding area, filled with the vibrant energy of filmmakers, musicians, and cosplay enthusiasts.
Thursday, December 7th, 5:30pm to 9:30pm. $10-$15100 Washington Street
Bringing back Auckland’s 3rd annual holiday market
Restore Oakland in Fruitvale is hosting a holiday market that’s perfect for gifting a loved one. The market will feature 10 different Black and brown small businesses, including graphic art by Dignidad Rebelde Art, handmade dog collars by Wiggle and Woof, pottery by Nekosaan, and many other handmade items. Additionally, food and drinks will be provided by the Southern food pop-up Comfort Collective.
Thursday, December 7th, 6pm to 9pm, free to attend; RSVP online1419 34th Ave.
21st Annual Montclair Village Holiday Walk
More than 40 Montclair Village properties will be offering discount promotions, giveaways and other perks as part of the 21st Annual Montclair Village Holiday Stroll. The event “aims to bring people together and support community-connected small businesses, community groups, artists, and Oakland schools.” In addition to patronizing local businesses in the area, Visitors will have the opportunity to participate in a games area hosted by the Auckland Spiders Ultimate Disc team and watch live performances by local youth and school groups such as Cola Voce (Principal Royce’s choral ensemble) and Edna. Brewer Jazz Band, GleeBA (Temple Beth Abraham Children’s Choir), Jazz Education Ensemble, Montera Middle School Band, Pacific Voyage Choir Academy, Piedmont Troubadour, Skyline High Jazz Band, Skyline High Orchestra, and more included professionally photographed “Winter Wonderland” Take a photo. Santa and more from Leah Marie Studio.
Thursday, December 7th, 4:00pm to 8:00pm, 1980 Mountain Blvd.
Oakland Interfaith Gospel Choir Free Concert
A staple in Auckland since 1986, the Auckland Interfaith Gospel Choir, made up of singers of all ages and ethnic backgrounds, performs free shows at Resurrection Auckland Church. This 100-year-old church is known for its stunning stained glass dome, which was restored in 2021 by stained glass restorer Ariana McCaw. Following the concert, a small reception will be held in the Oakland Ballroom, where guests will enjoy Edith’s Pie, Farley’s Coffee, and music by the Breshears String Quartet. Participants are asked to bring canned goods to be added to the Alameda County Food Bank barrels located at the entrance.
Friday, December 8th, 7pm, free to attend; RSVP online1701 Franklin Street
Oakland Gay Men’s Choir Holiday Concert
Since 1999, the Oakland Gay Men’s Choir has been spreading cheer with its harmonies at events across the bay. The choir will perform two times this weekend, one on Friday at Montclair Presbyterian Church and another on Sunday at First Presbyterian Church. Get ready to listen to holiday classics like: the most wonderful time of the year and decorate the hall.
Friday, Dec. 8, 7:30 p.m. and Sunday, Dec. 10, 4 p.m. Get tickets online