Juneteenth! at the Museum
2026-06-19 11:00 - 16:00 (America/Los_Angeles) | OMCA Great Hall, 1000 Oak, Oakland, California, 94607
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Gallery Chats at OMCA

Juneteenth! at the Museum

GA Tickets—SOLD OUT

Member and VIP Tickets—Still Available

Limited tickets will be available at the door.

OMCA X Black Freedom Fund present Juneteenth! at the Museum—a vibrant, full-day celebration of Black culture, creativity, and community. Guests can expect a dynamic campus filled with live performances and DJ sets from boundary-pushing artists, delicious offerings from standout Bay Area Black chefs and food vendors, and hands-on activities that invite visitors of all ages to move, make, and connect in celebration of Black culture.

From live music and soul line dancing to Juneteenth fan-making and community art projects, the day brings together joy, creativity, and reflection across OMCA’s campus. The celebration also features OMCA’s latest Special Exhibition, Mildred Howard: Poetics of Memory, alongside special programming that invites guests to engage with Black memory, identity, and artistic expression in new ways. Join us at OMCA for this joyful, can’t-miss tribute to Black heritage, resilience, and community.

General admission tickets are sold out. Member and VIP tickets are still available online. Limited tickets will be available at the door.

GA TICKETS SOLD OUT

GET VIP TICKETS

$10 for all-inclusive festival and gallery access | $110 for VIP access

MEMBER TICKETs

Free, all-inclusive festival and gallery access

Limited tickets will be available at the door.

ASL Interpretation for OMCA Garden stage will be provided.

Festival access starts at 11 am. Event parking is available at Alco Park (165 13th Street) for the day rate of $7. We encourage guests to take BART, rideshare, or other alternative transportation when possible.

Schedule of Events

FOOD AND BEVERAGES

10TH STREET | LOWER LEVEL11 am–4 pm Enjoy a delectable variety of Pan-African and Black diasporic cuisine from Bay Area chefs including Mela Bistro, alaMar, Cocobreeze, Town Fare Cafe, Pound Bizness, and more!

TOWN FARE CAFE | MID LEVEL – VIP TICKET REQUIRED11 am–4 pm Chef Michele McQueen of Town Fare and Lucy Blue, in collaboration with Maker’s Mark, presents Juneteenth Jubilee VIP. VIP tickets are $110 and provide an all-inclusive Juneteenth experience featuring a catered buffet, indoor and outside lounge seating, a specialty welcome cocktail, a live DJ, Spades and dominoes games, hand-printed Maker’s Mark merch, a Wine Alley presented by Black Vines, a complimentary photo booth, and more.

PERFORMANCES AND DJ SETS

GARDEN STAGE | LOWER LEVEL11:00 am–12:00 pm Music Set by DJ LadyRyan12:00–12:10 pm Formal Welcome 12:10-12:20 pm Black National Anthem by August Lee Stevens12:30–1:00 pm Music Set by DJ Red Corvette1:00–1:15 pm Live Performance by Ian Kelly1:20–1:45 pm Live Performance by Red Lotus1:45–2:15 pm Music Set by DJ KenZo2:15–2:40 pm Live Performance by Madison McFerrin2:50–3:20 pm DJ Set by Daghe3:20–3:50 pm Live Performance by Saba3:50–4:00 pm DJ Set by Daghe

AMPHITHEATER STAGE | LOWER LEVEL11:00 am–12:30 pm Music Set by DJ Kream3:00–4:00 pm Music Set by DJ Kream

ACTIVITIES

MID LEVEL TERRACE | MID LEVEL11:00 am-4:00 pm Shop and enjoy artisanal goods from local Black creatives, including Melanin Gang, Prideful Patches, Unified Pieces, Belle Noire, Avocurl, and Hella Charged & Lit.

12TH ST PLAZA | LOWER LEVEL11:00 am-4:00 pm Join the Golden State Valkyries and Warriors for hands-on activities, merch giveaways, and team excitement. Also, connect with Sons of the Sweet Science, a community storytelling project by filmmaker Renee Moncada that explores fatherhood, mentorship, and legacy. Visit the interactive activation to learn about the documentary series, engage with community stories from Oakland and the East Bay, and share your own reflections through filmed storytelling prompts.

KORET PLAZA | LOWER LEVEL12:00-4:00 pm Make a folding paper fan and a wearable button inspired by Juneteenth!

12:30-3:30 pm AfroComicCon and Oakland Technology and Education Center (OTEC) is bringing flair and fun to Juneteenth! at the Museum. Celebrate the themes of freedom and boundless imagination with AfroComicCon/OTEC collaborating artist Eugene R. Young. Use acrylic paint pens and paper to invent original characters, creatures, and things never seen before. Show your support for this non-profit by taking a photo in front of their backdrop, snagging some super cool merch, and hearing about some of the amazing projects that AfroComicCon/OTEC is bringing to the community!

AMPHITHEATER | LOWER LEVEL12:30-1:30 pm Join Telice for an all-ages Turf Dance Lesson celebrating Black liberation.2:00–3:00 pm Get moving with a Soul Line Dance Lesson hosted by Chocolate Platinum!

JAMES MOORE THEATER | LOWER LEVEL*2:15-3:15 pm Watch the premiere of the short documentary Memories in Motion: Selected Stories of Mildred Howard, written and directed by Lamar “MYL3Z” Brown and Delency Parham, with cinematography by Kevin Kumar and Tristan Custodio. Following the screening, join Mildred Howard, MYL3Z, and Delency Parham for a conversation moderated by Dr. Ameer Hasan Loggins, professor of Black Studies at UC Berkeley, on intergenerational relationships, the role of the archive, and their experiences as interdisciplinary artists.

About Memories in Motion:

This film traces the spaces, moments, and relationships that have shaped artist Mildred Howard across eight decades of life rooted in the East Bay. Moving from her Berkeley childhood home to the neighborhood where she raised her twins, and through the cities that now hold her public works, Memories in Motion: Selected Stories of Mildred Howard shows how Howard’s art grows directly from the communities, places, and experiences that surround her. In doing so, the film places Howard within a lineage of Black women whose everyday lives form a vital artistic and intellectual tradition. By revealing how Howard’s personal life is foundational to her artistic practice, the film resists drawing a line between Mildred the artist and Mildred the person—showing how her roles as mother, grandmother, food connoisseur, music lover, and mentor are essential to the creative life she has built.

GALLERY ACTIVITIES

KORET PLAZA | LOWER LEVEL12:00–4:00 pm Pick up a Juneteenth gallery guide and explore our galleries to learn more about Black changemakers and collectives from the Bay Area.

GREAT HALL | MID LEVEL*1:00-2:00 pm Join us for a special edition of Gallery Chats inside Mildred Howard: Poetics of Memory led by author and Professor of African American and African Diaspora Studies, Leigh Raiford. In this informal conversation, Raiford will draw from her personal and professional experiences with Howard’s life, art practice, and this unique exhibition. The first major show to celebrate the artist’s work, this project explores memory, identity, and the African American experience. Raiford will interweave her own in-depth knowledge and background in teaching, researching, curating, and writing about Black visuality. This Gallery Chat will invite visitors to reflect on how personal memory and collective history shape the broader stories that define us through the lens of this beloved Bay Area artist.

ALL GALLERIES | LOWER, MID, UPPER LEVELS1:00-3:00 pm Moving beyond the traditional museum tour, Gallery Chats invite visitors to engage in conversation, ask questions, and connect with OMCA facilitators who blend content expertise with lived experience to spark meaningful dialogue and new perspectives. Gallery Chat facilitators can be found in OMCA’s Great Hall Special Exhibitions and the Core Galleries of California Art, History, and Natural Sciences. Gallery Chats are included with Museum admission.

* Limited seating. Doors will open 15 minutes before start time.

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About the performers and partners

DJ LadyRyan

DJ LadyRyan is a defining voice in Bay Area nightlife, with a twenty year career as a DJ, curator, and community leader. A Bay Area favorite, she inspires a sense of safety, joy, and belonging through her deep musical intuition and grounded presence. Her passion for music can be felt throughout the region and beyond, whether she’s serving as the official DJ for the WNBA’s Golden State Valkyries, hosting her celebrated Soulovely or Sweetspot parties, or gracing the airwaves of 91.7 KALW in San Francisco.
Guided by a love of music and connection, LadyRyan has shaped dance floors through public radio, nightlife, and major cultural events while building a reputation for intentional, community-driven curation. A cofounder of Golden Ratio, she continues to cultivate spaces rooted in queer joy, creativity, and community. Recognized for her impact on the Bay Area music scene, she was voted Best DJ in the Bay Area by the Bay Area Reporter in 2023 and 2026, previously earned Best of the Bay from the East Bay Express, and was honored by the City of Oakland in 2023 for her leadership in the LGBTQ music and arts community. She has shared stages with icons including Diana Ross, George Clinton, Erykah Badu, Journey, Indigo Girls, and Anderson .Paak, bringing deep musical knowledge and an instinctive ability to move any room.

Red Corvette

Red Corvette, from San Francisco, is a DJ, Music Director, and one half of the brilliant minds behind Women Sound Off. With a 10-year journey as a top-tier DJ, she’s rocked at many festivals, nightclubs, and branded events leaving her mark across Cali and NYC’s hottest spots. From spinning for top-tier artists like Rayana Jay + Zyah Bell, to curating DSP playlists with Tidal, Apple, and Spotify, to dazzling brands and platforms like Springhill, Will Packard Media, YouTube, and most recently Essence Festival of Culture – Essence Stage, Red Corvette’s music direction game is pure fire. Red thrives in the chaotic environments of the DJ world and is a true multi-format DJ with real-time troubleshooting skills. With Red Corvette at the helm, an unforgettable musical experience can always be expected.

Ian Kelly

Ian Kelly is a rapper and storyteller from Oakland, known for his soulful lyricism and commanding stage presence. His project KELLS IS D.E.A.D. was named one of KQED’s Top 10 Bay Area Albums, followed by Soulful Of It, which led to appearances on Sway in the Morning, Ebro’s Apple Music show, and performances alongside artists like Robert Glasper. His music has also been featured on Madden 22 and Hulu’s Homeroom.
His EPs ART, A Summer Pack With Love (2024) , Concrete OCEAN with DJ D Sharp (2025), along with standout singles like ‘Okay’ and ‘What The Lick Read’ with Dr. Clips, continue to solidify his reputation as one of the Bay Area’s most compelling voices in Hip-Hop today!

Red Lotus

Red Lotus is recognized as one of the most versatile voices in today’s music landscape. Coming from Vallejo, he has transformed the narrative around Bay Area music. With breakout records such as “Built Different” and “Hello Darlin’,” Red Lotus has built strong momentum and a rapidly growing fanbase, standing out for both his range and message.
Known for high-energy, emotionally charged performances, Red Lotus gives a live experience that connects deeply with audiences on a human level and leaves a lasting impact.

DJ Kenzo

Kenivah Bockari, widely known as DJ Kenzo, was raised in Stockton by his parents, Martha and Sam, who immigrated from Sierra Leone, West Africa. Drawing inspiration from his rich cultural roots, Kenzo began carving out his path in music in 2016. Since then, he has built a powerful presence—touring with LaRussell, serving as the official DJ for both the Stockton Kings and Sacramento Kings, and opening for major artists like Snoop Dogg, Common, Leon Thomas, and Anderson .Paak. His signature “Kenergy” and deep African influence shine through in every set, fueling his journey as both a dynamic DJ and a skilled music producer.

Madison McFerrin

Maybe life on Earth, with all its miniature, momentary deaths and rebirths, really does have something to do with our zodiac signs. Singer-songwriter Madison McFerrin thinks so. Her sophomore album, SCORPIO, takes its name from her sign and its three phases (scorpion, eagle, and phoenix) which parallel her personal evolution since her 2023 debut, I Hope You can Forgive Me.
For Madison, love—specifically self-love—is a revealer of truths. It’s this album’s inspiration: “I truly believe that I went through it because I’ve created art that’s going to change my life.” SCORPIO is what it sounds like when the stars align.

Daghe

DAGHE is a multi-hyphenate creative, cultural strategist, music producer, DJ, and visual storyteller. His work moves across sound, media, community, and outdoor culture, held together less by category and more by instinct. He understands how people gather, move, and connect, and that shapes how he works.
His approach to DJing carries that same instinct into real time. Tempo awareness, cultural fluency, a feel for the room’s energy and where it needs to go. He finds the through line between sounds from different eras, different cultures, and different corners of the world, and makes it all make sense.

Saba

A successful independent artist, Saba has rooted his career in an authenticity and musicality that’s made him one of his generation’s most important and unique voices in rap. Saba’s most recent career highlights include performing at the United Center arena for Chance the Rapper’s Acid Rap Anniversary, playing two weekends at Coachella, and touring the US, Europe and Africa in support of his album Few Good Things. This year, Spotify has included Saba’s critically acclaimed CARE FOR ME album amongst its “Spotify Classics: Hip-Hop & R&B Albums of the Streaming Era” campaign (which includes Beyoncé, Kendrick Lamar, Tyler the Creator and more) with billboards across LA and NYC.
Making music from a young age, Saba and a group of neighborhood friends built a recording studio in his grandmother’s basement on Chicago’s West Side and formed the Pivot Gang collective. Since then, he’s been tapped by J. Cole for Revenge of the Dreamers III (2019), earned an RIAA Gold certification for “Sacrifices,” and joined Noname and Smino to launch the Midwest supergroup Ghetto Sage with “Häagen Dazs.” In 2022, Saba earned his second RIAA Gold certification for his 2016 single “Photosynthesis.”
In 2025, Saba and super-producer, executive, and mentor No ID will drop their highly anticipated collaboration album. On the album, Saba flexes his vivid story-telling, radiating confidence, self-reflection, and self-made success over No ID’s illustrious production.

DJ Kream

Hailing from Oakland, DJ Kream is a community organizer, creative, and event producer known for her genre-bending DJ style. In 2016, as part of her DJ debut, Kream co-founded the Oakland-based entertainment company Oakhella, curating tunes at the inaugural festival. Since then, Oakhella has grown from a music festival to full-scale entertainment company marketing, curating, and producing events for clients like Black Joy Parade, REI, Goldenvoice, Oakland Museum of California, The Battery Club (SF), The Life is Living Festival, and many more.
DJ Kream has gone on to curate the vibes at music festivals, nightclubs, weddings, day parties, brunches, drag shows, corporate events, and spaces coast to coast, from Portland and NYC to Mexico City. DJ Kream’s resume includes sharing marquees with legends old and new like Black Coffee, Moodymann, Joe Kay, TxC, Kevin Saunderson, Carl Cox, Channel Tres, Coco & Breezy, Cypress Hill, 112, Next, Sango, and Durand Bernarr.

Telice Summerfield

Telice is an incredible Turf dancer, educator, and community leader who is passionate about bringing people together. She weaves together relationships of dance, identity, and community by connecting and uplifting movement artists everywhere she goes. Her goals include cultivating consistent shared spaces for meaningful creative movement through which every person can be empowered, inspired, and celebrated.

Chocolate Platinum

Patricia Lowe, aka Chocolate Platinum, is the dynamic CEO and founder of The Chocolate Platinum Soul Line Dancers, established in 2012. An award-winning choreographer and a Certified Master Line Dance Instructor, Patricia has made a lasting impact on the world of soul line dancing through her creativity, leadership, and passion for the art. Her contributions have been recognized at the highest level—earning her a place in the U.S. Library of Congress, a testament to her cultural influence and dedication to the dance community.

August Lee Stevens

August Lee Stevens is a masterful young singer, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist whose work encompasses elements of soul, jazz, and modern folk. Possessed of a velvet-smooth voice and an innate gift for lyrical expression, Stevens is an artist whose profile is destined to rise. From singing at open mics, to Warriors Playoff games to opening for artists such as Seal, Smokey Robinson and Sheila E, August is on a trajectory that can’t be stopped.

Sponsors

Juneteenth! at the Museum is made possible in part by the generous support of the Black Freedom Fund. Additional support is provided by Golden State.

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Gallery Chats at OMCA
2026-06-20 13:00 - 15:00, 2026-06-27 13:00 - 15:00 | OMCA campus
Gallery Chats at OMCA

Join us for Gallery Chats, an opportunity to chat with and ask questions of our enthusiastic and knowledgeable OMCA Facilitators. Gallery Chats put a twist on the traditional museum tour by encouraging meaningful conversations and fresh interpretations to connect with the artwork, artifacts, and stories in our galleries.

Gallery Chats take place in our Special Exhibitions every Saturday from 1 to 3 pm and are included with Museum and Special Exhibition admission. No reservation necessary.

GET MUSEUM ADMISSION TICKETS

OMCA Members have access to special Member Tours every second Saturday of the month from noon to 1 pm.

Accessibility

Oakland Museum of California (OMCA) is committed to providing programs that are accessible, welcoming, and inclusive of our community. Wheelchairs, sensory inclusive devices, and additional amenities are available for checkout on a first come, first served basis at the Ticketing Desk. To request other accommodations, like American Sign Language (ASL), Cantonese, Spanish or another language interpreter, please email visitor@museumca.org at least three weeks before the event. Learn more about our accessibility options.

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Friday Nights at OMCA with The Seshen
2026-06-26 17:00 - 21:00 | OMCA campus
Gallery Chats at OMCA

Live Music by The Seshen, DJ set by Nikki Diamonds, Country Line Dance Lesson by Nora Gomperts and Leo Orringer, and Gallery Chats

Friday Night at OMCA brings The Seshen to the Garden Stage with their signature blend of R&B, synth-pop, and electronic sound. Powered by lush synth layers, live percussion, and magnetic vocals, the six-piece crafts a fluid set that shifts between intimate moments and full-bodied sonic lift.

As the evening unfolds, Nikki Diamonds keeps the floor in motion with a vibrant, genre-hopping mix of house, R&B, funk, disco, and more. Her sets move effortlessly between eras and moods, shaping a dance floor that feels communal, alive, and impossible not to get swept into.

Guests can also step into the rhythm with a beginner-friendly country line dance lesson led by Nora Gomperts and Leo Orringer. Designed for all levels, this easygoing session breaks down accessible moves you can pick up quickly and bring straight to the dance floor.Alongside an exceptional event experience, Friday Nights at OMCA also features Gallery Chats from 5:30–7:30 pm. Moving beyond the traditional museum tour, Gallery Chats invite visitors to engage in conversation, ask questions, and connect with OMCA facilitators who blend content expertise with lived experience to spark meaningful dialogue and new perspectives. Gallery Chat facilitators can be found in OMCA’s Great Hall Special Exhibitions and the Core Galleries of California Art, History, and Natural Sciences. Gallery Chats are included with Museum admission. Facilitators float between galleries throughout the night and can be seen wearing a blue “Let’s Chat” shirt.

Program Schedule:

5:30–6:30 pm Country Line Dance Lesson with Nora Gomperts and Leo Orringer | Amphitheater

5:30–7:30 pm Gallery Chats | All Galleries

6:30–7:45 pm Live Music by The Seshen | Garden Stage

6:45–8:45 pm DJ Set by Nikki Diamonds | Amphitheater

Join our email list to stay in the loop about Friday Nights at OMCA!

About Friday Nights:

The Town’s favorite block party, Friday Nights at OMCA, is back for the 2026 season, inviting the Bay to kick off the weekend with the crew—whether family, friends, or neighbors. From April–October, join us every Friday at 5 pm for a free evening of live music, interactive activities, Off the Grid food trucks, and, with a Museum ticket, exclusive late-night access to our galleries and special exhibitions.

Fuel your night with a rotating lineup of Off the Grid food trucks stationed along 10th Street between Oak and Fallon Streets, serving up bold flavors and local favorites. Inside, near the Koi Pond, purchase beer, wine, cocktails, and refreshing non-alcoholic options to sip while exploring. In the Garden, picnic tables, blankets, and a dazzling view of Lake Merritt welcome you to settle in with your meal. With games, engaging museum programs, and a vibrant community atmosphere, it’s the perfect setting for making memories marked with unmistakable Oakland energy, week after week.

OMCA also offers a $10 flat-rate parking in the OMCA Garage until 10 pm. Please note that outside alcohol is not permitted, and event details and performances are subject to change.

Accessibility

Oakland Museum of California (OMCA) is committed to providing programs that are accessible, welcoming, and inclusive of our community. Wheelchairs, sensory inclusive devices, and additional amenities are available for checkout on a first come, first served basis at the Ticketing Desk. To request other accommodations, like American Sign Language (ASL), Cantonese, Spanish or another language interpreter, please email visitor@museumca.org at least three weeks before the event. Learn more about our accessibility options.

Performers

The Seshen

Nikki Diamonds

Nora Gomperts and Leo Orringer

Off the Grid Food Truck Lineup

Performer BIOS

About The Seshen

The Seshen is a San Francisco Bay Area-based six-piece band led by singer/lyricist Lalin St. Juste and bassist/producer Akiyoshi Ehara. To create their multidimensional music, St. Juste and Ehara are joined by four remarkable bandmates: drummer Chris Thalmann, keyboard/synth player Mahesh Rao, percussionist Mirza Kopelman, and sampler Kumar Butler. They take inspiration from across the musical spectrum; their individual influences range from recognizable artists (Erykah Badu, Jai Paul, James Blake, Radiohead, and Broadcast) to genres and eras that don’t initially appear to fit together (Hip-Hop, indie rock, early electronica, and 70’s dub). Their unique alchemy of seemingly disparate sounds has led fans and critics alike to describe the band as defying categorization.

About Nikki Diamonds

Nikki is a proud queer Nicaraguan/Samoan DJ, born and raised in the San Francisco Mission District. Her core memories are wrapped around listening to music with her nana and mom—those moments that shaped everything they know about the power of a good song. For Nikki, community means everything. The joy she feels being surrounded by family and friends, listening to music, and dancing, is what freedom looks like to them.

About Nora Gomperts and Leo Orringer

Nora Gomperts and Leo Orringer met each other on the dance floor at Sundance Saloon two days after Nora got to town, and later found themselves teaching line dance together at Scuff. They recently started their own community event in Oakland to offer more opportunities for advanced line dance learning and practice. Nora is currently on the board of Starlight Strut, and both Nora and Leo are in a performance group called The Heartstompers.

Sponsors

Friday Nights at OMCA with Off the Grid is sponsored by the Oakland Museum Women’s Board and Bank of America. Additional support provided by OAKLAND ROOTS AND SOUL SC, Donahue Fitzgerald LLP, and Townsend Public Affairs.

Learn more about becoming a Friday Nights at OMCA sponsor.

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Friday Nights at OMCA with MXKA
2026-07-10 17:00 - 21:00 | OMCA campus
Gallery Chats at OMCA

Live Music by MXKA, DJ Set by Louie El Ser, Cumbia Wepa Dance Lesson with Mireille Ruiz, Community Activation with NIAD Art Center, and Gallery Chats

Kicking off the summer season of Friday Nights at OMCA, MXKA takes over the Garden Stage with a captivating blend of regional Mexican music and R&B. Through soulful vocals, heartfelt storytelling, and genre-bending sounds, the Bay Area artist reflects her Blaxican identity while creating a space for connection, self-expression, and celebration.

Keeping the energy flowing, Louie El Ser delivers a dynamic DJ set blending emerging Latin sounds with alt-pop experimentation. Her dreamy soundscapes and infectious rhythms create an immersive, uplifting atmosphere that invites guests to embrace curiosity and joyful movement on the dance floor. Guests can also jump into the rhythm with a lively Cumbia Wepa dance lesson led by Mireille Ruiz. Rooted in the vibrant traditions of cumbia sonidera, this energetic class introduces playful footwork, upbeat movement, and cultural connection in a welcoming, beginner-friendly environment.

Throughout the evening, NIAD Art Center joins the festivities in the Garden with a community activation celebrating Disability Pride Month with creativity, inclusion, and artistic expression. Visitors can participate in an art-making activation led by artist Jason Powell-Smith, browse and purchase original artworks and special-edition pieces, meet other artists and staff, and learn more about the organization’s work supporting professional artists with disabilities while fostering connection through the arts.

Alongside an exceptional event experience, Friday Nights at OMCA also features Gallery Chats from 5:30–7:30 pm. Putting a twist on the traditional museum tour, Gallery Chats invite visitors to engage in meaningful conversations, share personal reflections, and explore new perspectives on the artwork, artifacts, and stories throughout OMCA’s galleries. Enthusiastic volunteer facilitators can be found floating between all of OMCA’s galleries, including its Great Hall Special Exhibitions, throughout the evening. Look for the blue “Let’s Chat” shirts to join the conversation. Gallery Chats are included with Museum admission.

Program Schedule:

5–7:30 pm Community Activation: NIAD Art Center | Garden

5:30–6:30 pm Cumbia Wepa Dance Lesson with Mireille Ruiz | Amphitheater

5:30–7:30 pm Gallery Chats | All Galleries

6:45–7:45 pm Live Music by MXKA | Garden Stage

6:45–8:45 pm DJ Set by Louie El Ser | Amphitheater

Join our email list to stay in the loop about Friday Nights at OMCA!

About Friday Nights:

The Town’s favorite block party, Friday Nights at OMCA, is back for the 2026 season, inviting the Bay to kick off the weekend with the crew—whether family, friends, or neighbors. From April–October, join us every Friday at 5 pm for a free evening of live music, interactive activities, Off the Grid food trucks, and, with a Museum ticket, exclusive late-night access to our galleries and special exhibitions.

Fuel your night with a rotating lineup of Off the Grid food trucks stationed along 10th Street between Oak and Fallon Streets, serving up bold flavors and local favorites. Inside, near the Koi Pond, purchase beer, wine, cocktails, and refreshing non-alcoholic options to sip while exploring. In the Garden, picnic tables, blankets, and a dazzling view of Lake Merritt welcome you to settle in with your meal. With games, engaging museum programs, and a vibrant community atmosphere, it’s the perfect setting for making memories marked with unmistakable Oakland energy, week after week.

OMCA also offers a $10 flat-rate parking in the OMCA Garage until 10 pm. Please note that outside alcohol is not permitted, and event details and performances are subject to change.

Accessibility

Oakland Museum of California (OMCA) is committed to providing programs that are accessible, welcoming, and inclusive of our community. Wheelchairs, sensory inclusive devices, and additional amenities are available for checkout on a first come, first served basis at the Ticketing Desk. To request other accommodations, like American Sign Language (ASL), Cantonese, Spanish or another language interpreter, please email visitor@museumca.org at least three weeks before the event. Learn more about our accessibility options.

Performers

MXKA

Louie El Ser

Mireille Ruiz

NIAD Art Center

Off the Grid Food Truck Lineup

Performer BIOS

About MXKA

MXKA is a Blaxican artist from the Bay Area who creates a unique blend of Regional Mexican music and R&B. She brings together both sides of her culture through music, visuals, and storytelling. Through emotionally driven songwriting and genre-blending sounds, MXKA explores identity, love, culture, and self-expression while building a distinct artistic world rooted in authenticity.

About Louie El Ser

Louie El Ser is a multi-instrumentalist, producer, and composer from the Bay Area. From self-produced hits to DJ sets, Louie has spent the majority of her life studying sound design and sonic reconnaissance. Having played around the world in metropolitan music hubs like Paris, Los Angeles, and México City, she’s been on bills with top artists such as Isabella Lovestory, La Goony Chonga, Los Eclipses, and more.

About Mireille Ruiz

Mireille Ruiz, born and raised in Mexico City, grew up dancing and listening to Latin music as part of her culture, including cumbia. She learned her first following techniques dancing with her father at every family fiesta. She has a Mexican folklore, jazz, tap dancing, and gymnastics background, and grew up performing since the age of four. She is also a percussionist, drummer, and Montessori teacher. A Bay Area bachata, cumbia, and salsa dance instructor, Mireille has been teaching, performing, and leading dance teams around the USA since 2010.

About NIAD Art Center

Founded in Richmond in 1982, NIAD Art Center is a groundbreaking disability arts organization that promotes creative expression, independence, dignity, and community integration by, with, and for people with disabilities. More than 75 artists practice across our 23rd Street studio in Richmond and in their Virtual Studio, building professional careers as contemporary artists. Visit niadart.org to explore and collect original artwork, join their mailing list, and learn more about their work.

Sponsors

Friday Nights at OMCA with Off the Grid is sponsored by the Oakland Museum Women’s Board and Bank of America. Additional support provided by OAKLAND ROOTS AND SOUL SC, Donahue Fitzgerald LLP, and Townsend Public Affairs.

Learn more about becoming a Friday Nights at OMCA sponsor.

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Friday Nights at OMCA with Óskar Ly & Rumbalú and Asociación Cultural Kanchis
2026-07-17 17:00 - 21:00 | OMCA campus
Gallery Chats at OMCA

Live Music by Óskar Ly & Rumbalú, Folkloric Dance Performance by Asociación Cultural Kanchis, Music Set by dj tuMadre, Community Tabling by Bike East Bay and Lake Merritt Institute, Live Figure Drawing with Sketchboard Co., and Gallery Chats

In honor of both Peruvian and Colombian Independence Day, this Friday Night is alive with celebration as Asociación Cultural Kanchis shares the beauty of Peruvian folkloric dance through a vibrant performance honoring the rich cultural heritage of Peru and the generations who keep these traditions thriving.

Continuing the festivities, Óskar Ly & Rumbalú deliver a lively musical performance inspired by the rhythms and sounds of Peru, Colombia, and the Afro-Caribbean diaspora. Blending salsa, cumbia, Latin jazz, and global flair, the ensemble creates an infectious atmosphere that invites guests to dance, connect, and celebrate community together.

Keeping the energy high, dj tuMadre spins an eclectic mix of sounds rooted in culture, community, and movement. Blending genres, eras, and unexpected musical discoveries, her vibrant set creates a colorful atmosphere designed to bring people together and keep the dance floor buzzing.

Throughout the night, guests can connect with local organizations, including Bike East Bay and Lake Merritt Institute, offering interactive activities, community resources, and opportunities to learn more about building a healthier, more connected East Bay. With gallery admission, guests can also join Sketchboard Co. in the Gallery of California Art for live figure drawing sessions.

We welcome all skill levels, including those who have never drawn before and want to try drawing. Art supplies and clipboards will be available for use, and your artwork will be yours to take home or exchange with others. A costumed model representing the diversity of the Bay Area will be posing in the Gallery of California Art for times ranging from 2 to 20 minutes. Since drawing will take place in the galleries, please be mindful of space and bring only the following media from home: sketchbooks (max size 9×12 inches) and pre-sharpened enclosed graphite, charcoal, or conté pencils.

Alongside an exceptional event experience, Friday Nights at OMCA also features Gallery Chats from 5:30–7:30 pm. Putting a twist on the traditional museum tour, Gallery Chats invite visitors to engage in meaningful conversations, share personal reflections, and explore new perspectives on the artwork, artifacts, and stories throughout OMCA’s galleries. Enthusiastic volunteer facilitators can be found floating between all of OMCA’s galleries, including its Great Hall Special Exhibitions, throughout the evening. Look for the blue “Let’s Chat” shirts to join the conversation. Gallery Chats are included with Museum admission.

Program Schedule:

5–7:30 pm Community Tabling: Lake Merritt Institute | Garden

5–7:30 pm Community Tabling: Bike East Bay | Garden

5:30–6:15 pm Sketchboard Co. Live Figure Drawing | Gallery of California Art

5:30–7:30 pm Gallery Chats | All Galleries

6:15–6:40 pm Dance Performance by Asociación Cultural Kanchis | Garden Stage

6:45–7:30 pm Sketchboard Co. Live Figure Drawing | Gallery of California Art

6:45–8:45 pm Music Set by dj tuMadre | Amphitheater

7–8 pm Live Music by Óskar Ly & Rumbalú | Garden Stage

Join our email list to stay in the loop about Friday Nights at OMCA!

About Friday Nights:

The Town’s favorite block party, Friday Nights at OMCA, is back for the 2026 season, inviting the Bay to kick off the weekend with the crew—whether family, friends, or neighbors. From April–October, join us every Friday at 5 pm for a free evening of live music, interactive activities, Off the Grid food trucks, and, with a Museum ticket, exclusive late-night access to our galleries and special exhibitions.

Fuel your night with a rotating lineup of Off the Grid food trucks stationed along 10th Street between Oak and Fallon Streets, serving up bold flavors and local favorites. Inside, near the Koi Pond, purchase beer, wine, cocktails, and refreshing non-alcoholic options to sip while exploring. In the Garden, picnic tables, blankets, and a dazzling view of Lake Merritt welcome you to settle in with your meal. With games, engaging museum programs, and a vibrant community atmosphere, it’s the perfect setting for making memories marked with unmistakable Oakland energy, week after week.

OMCA also offers a $10 flat-rate parking in the OMCA Garage until 10 pm. Please note that outside alcohol is not permitted, and event details and performances are subject to change.

Accessibility

Oakland Museum of California (OMCA) is committed to providing programs that are accessible, welcoming, and inclusive of our community. Wheelchairs, sensory inclusive devices, and additional amenities are available for checkout on a first come, first served basis at the Ticketing Desk. To request other accommodations, like American Sign Language (ASL), Cantonese, Spanish or another language interpreter, please email visitor@museumca.org at least three weeks before the event. Learn more about our accessibility options.

Performers

Asociación Cultural Kanchis

About Óskar Ly & Rumbalú

dj tuMadre

Sketchboard Co.

Off the Grid Food Truck Lineup

Performer BIOS

About Asociación Cultural Kanchis

Asociación Cultural Kanchis is a non-profit Peruvian cultural association founded in 1995. Its goal is to preserve and promote Peru’s rich and colorful culture through its most popular expression, the folkloric dance. With dancers spanning three generations, Kanchis showcases music and dances from all regions of Peru.

About Óskar Ly & Rumbalú

Óskar Ly & Rumbalú is a vibrant musical ensemble bringing together Afro-Caribbean rhythms—such as rumba, salsa, cumbia, and bomba—blended with jazz, R&B, and world music in a bilingual project celebrating love, freedom, and exploration. Led by Colombian pianist, composer, and arranger Óskar Ly, Rumbalú has brought their love to audiences at SFJazz, San Jose Jazz Fest, New Mexico Salsa Congress, Bayview Opera House, and many more, delivering an irresistible groove that gets bodies moving.

About dj tuMadre

dj tuMadre is a Latina hailing from the Bay Area. A playful music selector with a knack for eclectic fusion, she mixes sounds you didn’t know you needed. Her style is rooted in rhythm, cultura, y comunidad—blending genres, eras, and vibes to create sets that bring people together and keep the dance floor alive.

About Sketchboard Co.

Sketchboard Co. is a BIPOC figure drawing collective, curating eclectic, diverse, and affordable events in the Bay Area over the last 10 years. Their mission is to feature the bodies of people at the intersection of multiple identities, offer living wages to our art models, and create an inclusive environment for the artists in our community.

About Bike East Bay

Bike East Bay mobilizes by bike to build thriving communities that are joyful, safe, and inclusive. They are building a movement for safe streets and connected, thriving communities where people come first, not cars.

About Lake Merritt Institute

Lake Merritt Institute is a community-based, non-profit corporation that works with volunteers, schools, and the City of Oakland in a cooperative, positive relationship.

Sponsors

Friday Nights at OMCA with Off the Grid is sponsored by the Oakland Museum Women’s Board and Bank of America. Additional support provided by OAKLAND ROOTS AND SOUL SC, Donahue Fitzgerald LLP, and Townsend Public Affairs.

Learn more about becoming a Friday Nights at OMCA sponsor.

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Friday Nights at OMCA with NOODLES
2026-07-24 17:00 - 21:00 | OMCA campus
Gallery Chats at OMCA

DJ Sets by NOODLES and DJ Fasho, Tutting Dance Lesson with Hector “Intricate” Ascencio, and Gallery Chats

This Friday Night at OMCA, NOODLES takes over the Garden Stage with an electrifying set that blends Hip-Hop, R&B, electronic music, and global sounds. Known for her genre-spanning style and magnetic presence, the Bay Area DJ creates an energetic atmosphere that celebrates creativity, connection, and movement.

Keeping the vibes flowing, DJ Fasho delivers a high-energy mix of R&B, Afrobeats, reggae, pop, and reggaeton throughout the evening in the Amphitheater. Rooted in Oakland and inspired by music’s power to bring people together, his set keeps the dance floor moving with crowd-pleasing rhythms and feel-good energy.

Guests can also step onto the dance floor themselves during a tutting dance lesson led by Hector “Intricate” Ascencio. This interactive lesson introduces the fundamentals of the dynamic street dance style, exploring precise lines, angles, and expressive movement while offering participants a chance to learn from one of the Bay Area’s most accomplished dancers.

Alongside an exceptional event experience, Friday Nights at OMCA also features Gallery Chats from 5:30–7:30 pm. Putting a twist on the traditional museum tour, Gallery Chats invite visitors to engage in meaningful conversations, share personal reflections, and explore new perspectives on the artwork, artifacts, and stories throughout OMCA’s galleries. Enthusiastic volunteer facilitators can be found floating between all of OMCA’s galleries, including its Great Hall Special Exhibitions, throughout the evening. Look for the blue “Let’s Chat” shirts to join the conversation. Gallery Chats are included with Museum admission.

Program Schedule:

5:30–6:30 pm Tutting Dance Lesson with Hector “Intricate” Ascencio | Amphitheater

5:30–7:30 pm Gallery Chats | All Galleries

6:45–8 pm DJ Set by NOODLES | Garden Stage

6:45–8:45 pm Music Set by DJ Fasho | Amphitheater

Join our email list to stay in the loop about Friday Nights at OMCA!

About Friday Nights:

The Town’s favorite block party, Friday Nights at OMCA, is back for the 2026 season, inviting the Bay to kick off the weekend with the crew—whether family, friends, or neighbors. From April–October, join us every Friday at 5 pm for a free evening of live music, interactive activities, Off the Grid food trucks, and, with a Museum ticket, exclusive late-night access to our galleries and special exhibitions.

Fuel your night with a rotating lineup of Off the Grid food trucks stationed along 10th Street between Oak and Fallon Streets, serving up bold flavors and local favorites. Inside, near the Koi Pond, purchase beer, wine, cocktails, and refreshing non-alcoholic options to sip while exploring. In the Garden, picnic tables, blankets, and a dazzling view of Lake Merritt welcome you to settle in with your meal. With games, engaging museum programs, and a vibrant community atmosphere, it’s the perfect setting for making memories marked with unmistakable Oakland energy, week after week.

OMCA also offers a $10 flat-rate parking in the OMCA Garage until 10 pm. Please note that outside alcohol is not permitted, and event details and performances are subject to change.

Accessibility

Oakland Museum of California (OMCA) is committed to providing programs that are accessible, welcoming, and inclusive of our community. Wheelchairs, sensory inclusive devices, and additional amenities are available for checkout on a first come, first served basis at the Ticketing Desk. To request other accommodations, like American Sign Language (ASL), Cantonese, Spanish or another language interpreter, please email visitor@museumca.org at least three weeks before the event. Learn more about our accessibility options.

Performers

NOODLES

DJ Fasho

Hector “Intricate” Ascencio

Off the Grid Food Truck Lineup

Performer BIOS

About NOODLES

NOODLES is a Bay Area DJ whose eclectic sets seamlessly blend Hip-Hop, R&B, electronic, and global influences. With roots in both club culture and fashion, she’s built a distinct lane—touring with Kehlani, headlining her own shows, and moving festival crowds worldwide. Her performances radiate confidence, creativity, and real connection. NOODLES curates music with intention and a pulse on what’s next.

About DJ Fasho

DJ Fasho a.k.a Craig Vick was born and raised in Oakland. His love for music came at a young age, listening to his mom’s jukebox and turntable in the 70s and 80s. DJ Fasho was drawn to DJing because of how music brings all types of people together.

About Hector “Intricate” Ascencio

Hector “Intricate” Ascencio from Hayward has been a tutting and T.U.R.F. dancer for 19 years and is the founder of @xmtsturfsession & @tuttersoutlet. He is the champion of several dance competitions, including World of Dance (2x), Red Bull Dance Your Style Oakland (2023), and Vans In The Circle (2023). Hector has also served as a judge for Fusion Concept (2024) and Freestyles Session, and was a finalist at Just Dance It Out in Bali, Indonesia. Over the years, he has worked with artists such as G-Eazy, Kendrick Lamar, and TroyBoi, and represents multiple crews, including Assassins Crew, Rock Force Crew, Tutgodz, and ERC.

Sponsors

Friday Nights at OMCA with Off the Grid is sponsored by the Oakland Museum Women’s Board and Bank of America. Additional support provided by OAKLAND ROOTS AND SOUL SC, Donahue Fitzgerald LLP, and Townsend Public Affairs.

Learn more about becoming a Friday Nights at OMCA sponsor.

Return to Events

Friday Nights at OMCA with The Whoadees and Special Guests
2026-07-31 17:00 - 21:00 | OMCA campus
Gallery Chats at OMCA

Live Music by The Whoadees with Special Guests, DJ Set by Jaymeebaaby, and Gallery Chats

The Whoadees take over the Garden Stage this Friday Night at OMCA with an immersive live set that pushes the boundaries of Hip-Hop, funk, and experimental sound. Blending their backgrounds as producers, engineers, and musicians, the collective creates a dynamic, interactive experience and is joined by special guests Grand Nationxl, 3lise, Detahjae, and Nef the Pharaoh for a powerful showcase of Bay Area talent.

Keeping the energy in motion, Jaymeebaaby delivers a high-impact DJ set packed with throwbacks, current favorites, and crowd-moving hits across genres. Known for her fast-rising career across major venues, sports events, and radio, the Bay Area DJ brings a vibrant mix designed to keep the dance floor active and the vibe all the way up.

Alongside an exceptional event experience, Friday Nights at OMCA also features Gallery Chats from 5:30–7:30 pm. Putting a twist on the traditional museum tour, Gallery Chats invite visitors to engage in meaningful conversations, share personal reflections, and explore new perspectives on the artwork, artifacts, and stories throughout OMCA’s galleries. Enthusiastic volunteer facilitators can be found floating between all of OMCA’s galleries, including its Great Hall Special Exhibitions, throughout the evening. Look for the blue “Let’s Chat” shirts to join the conversation. Gallery Chats are included with Museum admission.

Program Schedule:

5:30–7:30 pm Gallery Chats | All Galleries

6:30–7:30 pm Live Music by The Whoadees with Special Guests | Garden Stage

6:45–8:45 pm DJ Set by Jaymeebaaby | Amphitheater

Join our email list to stay in the loop about Friday Nights at OMCA!

About Friday Nights:

The Town’s favorite block party, Friday Nights at OMCA, is back for the 2026 season, inviting the Bay to kick off the weekend with the crew—whether family, friends, or neighbors. From April–October, join us every Friday at 5 pm for a free evening of live music, interactive activities, Off the Grid food trucks, and, with a Museum ticket, exclusive late-night access to our galleries and special exhibitions.

Fuel your night with a rotating lineup of Off the Grid food trucks stationed along 10th Street between Oak and Fallon Streets, serving up bold flavors and local favorites. Inside, near the Koi Pond, purchase beer, wine, cocktails, and refreshing non-alcoholic options to sip while exploring. In the Garden, picnic tables, blankets, and a dazzling view of Lake Merritt welcome you to settle in with your meal. With games, engaging museum programs, and a vibrant community atmosphere, it’s the perfect setting for making memories marked with unmistakable Oakland energy, week after week.

OMCA also offers a $10 flat-rate parking in the OMCA Garage until 10 pm. Please note that outside alcohol is not permitted, and event details and performances are subject to change.

Accessibility

Oakland Museum of California (OMCA) is committed to providing programs that are accessible, welcoming, and inclusive of our community. Wheelchairs, sensory inclusive devices, and additional amenities are available for checkout on a first come, first served basis at the Ticketing Desk. To request other accommodations, like American Sign Language (ASL), Cantonese, Spanish or another language interpreter, please email visitor@museumca.org at least three weeks before the event. Learn more about our accessibility options.

Performers

The Whoadees

Grand Nationxl

3lise

Detahjae

Nef the Pharaoh

Jaymeebaaby

Off the Grid Food Truck Lineup

Performer BIOS

About The Whoadees

The Whoadees are a dynamic music collective. Blending their talents as producers, engineers, and musicians, they create a unique sound rooted in Hip-Hop, funk, and experimental production. Each member brings years of experience in sound design, mixing, and performance, making The Whoadees not just a group, but a movement dedicated to pushing creative boundaries and delivering music that connects deeply with listeners.

About Grand Nationxl

Blending the essence of East Oakland and North Richmond, Grand Nationxl emerges as a powerhouse collective, transcending Hip-Hop boundaries with eclectic beats and introspective lyricism. Founding members Kevin Allen (formerly Erk Tha Jerk), Mani Draper, Brookfield Duece, and Passwurdz each add their unique flavor. Rooted in the Bay Area’s music scene, they unite for authentic expression.

About 3lise

3lise is an artist whose love for music began in her family’s church choir and at Oakland sideshows, where her passion for Neo-Soul first blossomed. Raised between Oakland and Richmond, she carries the grit, resilience, and creativity of both cities into her work. Her exploration of metaphysical instruments has expanded her sound, infusing mystical and ethereal textures into contemporary R&B and rap. Shaped by the soulful experiences of life, 3lise channels emotion into her art with a mission to stretch the heart and push emotional boundaries, guiding listeners to embrace their shadows and uncover transformative power.

About Detahjae

Detahjae is a 22-year-old visionary artist from the Section 8 neighborhoods of Oakland. Born into a family of musicians who never got their big break, Detahjae picked up where his parents left off—starting his own musical journey at just seven years old. In November 2024, he released his breakout single “Janice,” a deeply creative and emotionally charged record that put him on the map. With a raw voice, sharp storytelling, and an otherworldly visual imagination, Detahjae quickly captivated a global audience through a series of compelling, self-developed music videos that blurred the line between underground art and viral genius. Detahjae is not just an artist—he’s a movement from the trenches of Oakland, proving that real creativity always finds a way to rise.

About Nef the Pharaoh

Born Tonee Hayes in 1995, the proud Vallejo native started rapping before the age of five, honing his craft as a freestyling teenager influenced by Mac Dre, E-40, and DJ Mustard. His local hit, “Bitch I’m from Vallejo,” landed in 2014. The track helped catch the ear of E-40, who signed Nef to his Sick Wid It Records label. After issuing the early mixtapes Rich by 25 Two (2014) and Neffy Got Wings (2016), he released his 2015 self-titled debut EP, featuring his second local hit, “Big Tymin’,” which was picked up by indie blogs and publications.

About Jaymeebaaby

Born and raised in the Bay Area, Jaymeebaaby started her DJ career in 2021 and has quickly gained momentum, leading to bookings with big venues in and out of the Bay, local radio stations, notable companies, and even for professional sporting events. She was the tournament DJ for the 2023 LPGA International Crown, DJ for the Oakland Athletics, and she is currently a mixshow DJ for The Bay’s Hit Radio Station 99.7NOW (KMVQ) on Saturday Nights.

Sponsors

Friday Nights at OMCA with Off the Grid is sponsored by the Oakland Museum Women’s Board and Bank of America. Additional support provided by OAKLAND ROOTS AND SOUL SC, Donahue Fitzgerald LLP, and Townsend Public Affairs.

Learn more about becoming a Friday Nights at OMCA sponsor.

Return to Events
