Oakland Museum of California (OMCA)

Gallery Chats at OMCA
2026-02-07 13:00 - 15:00, 2026-02-14 13:00 - 15:00, 2026-02-21 13:00 - 15:00, 2026-02-28 13:00 - 15:00, 2026-03-07 13:00 - 15:00, 2026-03-14 13:00 - 15:00, 2026-03-21 13:00 - 15:00, 2026-03-28 13:00 - 15:00 (America/Los_Angeles) and 9 more dates | OMCA campus
First Sundays

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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25th Annual Lunar New Year at OMCA: Year of the Horse
2026-02-21 11:00 - 16:00 | OMCA Great Hall, 1000 Oak, Oakland, California, 94607
First Sundays

Gallop into the Year of the Horse this February as we mark the 25th anniversary of OMCA’s Annual Lunar New Year Celebration! Guests can expect a full day of vibrant performances, family-friendly storytelling, hands-on activities, delicious food from local AAPI chefs, and opportunities to support AAPI artisans, all while basking in community connection.

As we come together to uplift AAPI communities across the Bay Area, the Museum is excited to welcome Oakland’s one-and-only seiji oda to the Garden Stage. Their signature ambient and mindful lofi-hyphy sound will fill the garden alongside several other performances spanning Korean, Pilipino, Vietnamese, and Chinese traditions. From wishing trees and zodiac quests to K-pop dance lessons and Gallery Chats, this milestone celebration invites visitors of all ages to connect, reflect, and welcome the Year of the Horse together.

Festival access starts at 11 am; activities and performances start at 12 pm. Parking is available in OMCA’s Oak Street Garage for a day rate of $10; Limited street parking is available around the museum. 7. ASL Interpretation for OMCA Garden stage will be provided.

GET TICKETS

member TICKETS

All complimentary advance reservations for members are sold out. A limited number of free member tickets will be available onsite on the day of the event.

Schedule of Events

PERFORMANCES

GARDEN STAGE *

12–12:20 pm Opening Celebration: Usher in the New Year and chase evil spirits away with a lucky lion dance by LionDanceME.

12:45–1:30 pm Nanta, Samgomu, and Pan-Gut Performances: Experience the rhythms and dynamic movements of Hansamo’s Nanta, Pungmul & Dance Teams.

1:35–2:05 pm Music & Meditation with seiji oda: Drop into this Bay-Area-grown blend of mindfulness and lofi-hyphy beats paired with optional movement and breathing exercises for all levels.

2:35–3:20 pm Kulintang Music and Filipino Dance Performances with KULARTS: Enjoy contemporary kulintang music by Kulintang Dialog, Pilipino folk dances by AGOS Youth Program, and diasporic Pilipino dances by Alleluia Panis Dance Theater.

3:30–4 pm Closing Celebration: Energetic performance by UC Berkeley’s Vietnamese Student Association Lion and Dragon Dance Team for good luck and prosperity in the New Year.

STORYTIME

LECTURE HALL, LOWER LEVEL **

1-2 pm Enjoy a reading of Anzu the Great Kaiju with author Benson Shum and learn how he makes and illustrates books!

2:30-3:30 pm Join Oakland Public Library for a Lunar New Year family storytime with songs, movement, and fun!

ACTIVITIES

MID LEVEL TERRACE, MID LEVEL

11 am–4 pm Shop and enjoy local artisanal goods and sweet treats by Sunnie Creative, A Jar of Pickles, JIĀ HOME CO., Oakland Fortune, Alice St. Bakery Cafe, Fabula Tea, and Little Moon Bakehouse.

GARDEN, LOWER LEVEL

12–4:00 pm Create a horse puppet and decorate a red envelope.

KORET PLAZA, LOWER LEVEL

12–4:00 pm Write a new year wish for your community and add it to our collective Year of the Horse wishing tree!

12:30–3:30 pm Oakland Chinatown’s very own Town Print Shop pops up at OMCA today. Experience live screen printing and grab a limited edition Year of the Horse print to commemorate the Museum’s 25th Anniversary Lunar New Year celebration (while supplies last).

AMPHITHEATER, LOWER LEVEL

12:30–1:30 pm and 2:30–3:30 pm Get ready to dance and learn official K-Pop choreography for two different songs with dance instructor Alice Park.

GALLERY ACTIVITIES

GARDEN AND KORET PLAZA, LOWER LEVEL

12–4:00 pm Pick up a self-guided Lunar New Year Zodiac Animal Quest activity sheet and search for zodiac animals in our galleries.

ALL GALLERIES, LOWER, MID, UPPER LEVELS

1–3:00 pm Gallery Chats at OMCA takes an informal approach to the traditional museum tour by encouraging meaningful conversations and fresh interpretations to connect with the artwork, artifacts, and stories in our galleries. Visitors are invited to chat, ask questions, and connect with our OMCA facilitators who combine content knowledge with lived experience to encourage meaningful dialogue and fresh interpretations of our exhibitions.

FOOD AND BEVERAGES

FOOD VENDORS, UPPER LEVEL, OAK STREET PLAZA

11 am–4 pm Enjoy a delectable variety of food offerings from Bay Area AAPI chefs, including D’Grobak, Pintoh Thai, House of Phin, and Pho Vy Vietnamese Cuisine.

TOWN FARE CAFE, MID LEVEL

11 am–4 pm Enjoy cuisine and beverages that pay tribute to Chef Michele’s Southern roots and Oakland upbringing while bringing together flavors from the diverse cultures within the local community.

*If raining, performances will move to the James Moore Theater, Lower Level.

**Limited seating. Doors open 15 minutes before each storytime.

About the performers and partners

LionDanceME

As seen on America’s Got Talent, this is LionDanceME, fresh off of a world lion dance championship in Malaysia! They made history by having the first female in the world to win the Western Lion King title, and continue to keep the cultural art of dragon and lion dance alive through youth programs at over 30 different schools in San Francisco. You can check out their showcase every Saturday at 4pm in the heart of Chinatown on Grant Avenue!

Hansamo

Hansamo is a non-profit organization of Korean-American students and parents in the Bay Area committed to promoting the beauty of the Korean language and Korean culture. Through performances and volunteer efforts that share these traditions, Hansamo contributes to the enrichment of the community’s cultural diversity and awareness.

KULARTS

Founded in 1985, KULARTS is the main presenter of contemporary and tribal Pilipino Arts in the United States. The mission of KULARTS is to inform and expand the understanding of American Pilipino culture through works that address contemporary issues in the community. KULARTS objectives are to nurture the artistic development of Pilipino American artists, and preserve the spirit and integrity of ancient Pilipino art forms through research, education, and documentation.

seiji oda

seiji oda is a Japanese-American rapper and producer from Oakland. His signature sound “lofi-hyphy” combines ambient soundscapes with his Bay Area hyphy roots. This juxtaposition represents seiji’s unorthodox approach to creating music that feels both familiar and futuristic.

Cal VSA Lion and Dragon Dance Team

Cal VSA Lion Dance, founded in 2012 through the Vietnamese Student Association’s Culture Show, is UC Berkeley’s one and only student-run lion dance team. Earnestly serving the local Bay Area community for the past 11 years, they’ve developed a tight-knit team of students and alumni connected by culture, passion, and comradery.

Benson Shum

Benson Shum is an award-winning children’s book author and illustrator. Among his many books for young readers is Anzu the Great Kaiju, an ABA Kid’s Indie Next Pick and awarded for Outstanding Achievement in Social Emotional Literature by the Children’s Literature Council of Southern California (CLCSC). Aside from writing and illustrating, Benson is also a Disney Animator at the Walt Disney Animation Studios, where he has worked on such films as Frozen 1 and 2, Big Hero 6, Moana, Encanto, and Zootopia 1 and 2.

Oakland Public Library

With its Main Library on 14th Street and seventeen branch libraries around the Town, the Oakland Public Library empowers all people to explore, connect, and grow. Their services include the Second Start Adult Literacy Program, a Tool Lending Library, the African-American Museum and Library at Oakland (AAMLO), and the Oakland History Center located on the 2nd Floor of the Main Library.

Alice Park

Alice Park has been teaching her interpretation of official K-Pop choreography since 2022 at various Bay Area dance studios, including City Dance, In the Groove Studios, and Enjoy Dance Studio. She is a member of the K-Pop project group Groobeu (Groo브), a K-Pop dance cover group that releases K-Pop covers filmed in public and performs at various live events.

Town Print Shop

Town Print is an Oakland-based and AAPI-owned print shop serving the community since 2009, specializing in screen printing, digital printing, and embroidery on a wide range of apparel and textiles. Town Print proudly partners with artists, businesses, schools, and organizations to bring their brands and creative ideas to life.

Sponsors

OMCA Lunar New Year is made possible in part by generous support from the Oakland Museum Women’s Board.

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67th Annual White Elephant Sale Clearance Weekend
2026-02-28 10:00 - 2026-03-01 15:00 | White Elephant Sale, 333 Lancaster St., Oakland, 94602
First Sundays

Don’t miss the 67th Annual Clearance Weekend! Catch the biggest discounts on these final days of the White Elephant Sale. Markdowns all day. Admission is free—no advanced tickets are required.

Important Info

TFree shuttles from Fruitvale BART station are available: On Clearance Weekend, shoppers can take a shuttle to and from BART instead of searching for parking, which is limited.

Children of all ages are welcome at the free Clearance Weekend. We ask that small children be supervised at all times. (We cannot accommodate strollers in the warehouse.)

For the health and safety of our volunteer workers and our patrons:

Only service animals are permitted in the warehouse. As defined by the ADA, a service animal is an animal that is individually trained to do work or perform tasks for persons with disabilities. Animals that solely provide companionship, comfort, or emotional support are not considered service animals and will not be allowed in the warehouse.

No food or drinks (except water) inside the warehouse.

Shopping carts, strollers, and backpacks must be checked in.

This is a cashless event. Only credit/debit cards or Apple Pay will be accepted.

All sales are final. No refunds.

LEARN MORE

About The Oakland Museum Women’s Board

The sole mission of The Oakland Museum Women’s Board (OMWB) is to raise money to support the Oakland Museum of California’s acquisitions, exhibitions, educational programs, capital improvements, and more. Since 1959, the OMWB has contributed nearly $34 million to the Museum. With the help of nearly a thousand dedicated volunteers, they work year-round to organize and present the White Elephant Sale held annually each winter, which attracts shoppers from the Bay Area and beyond.

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Highlights

RELATED EVENTS

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First Sundays
2026-03-01 11:00 - 17:00
First Sundays

First Sundays

Every first Sunday of the month, admission to OMCA’s Galleries of California Art, History, Natural Sciences, and any Special Exhibitions in our Great Hall are free.

In between exploring the galleries, pick up some locally-made goods from our shop, or relax outside in our updated garden.

Visitors are encouraged to reserve tickets online in advance to secure your preferred entry time and reduce your wait. Tickets are available at the Mid-Level Ticketing Desk on a first-come, first-served basis.

GET TICKETS

Return to Events

Highlights

Related Events

Gallery Chats at OMCA

Gallery Chats puts a twist on the traditional museum tour by encouraging meaningful conversations and fresh interpretations of the artwork, artifacts, and stories in OMCA’s galleries. This informal drop-in experience is an opportunity for visitors to share their personal reflections with and ask questions of our enthusiastic and knowledgeable volunteer facilitators.

Learn More

Gallery Chats at OMCA

Gallery Chats puts a twist on the traditional museum tour by encouraging meaningful conversations and fresh interpretations of the artwork, artifacts, and stories in OMCA’s galleries. This informal drop-in experience is an opportunity for visitors to share their personal reflections with and ask questions of our enthusiastic and knowledgeable volunteer facilitators.

Learn More

Gallery Chats at OMCA

Gallery Chats puts a twist on the traditional museum tour by encouraging meaningful conversations and fresh interpretations of the artwork, artifacts, and stories in OMCA’s galleries. This informal drop-in experience is an opportunity for visitors to share their personal reflections with and ask questions of our enthusiastic and knowledgeable volunteer facilitators.

Learn More

Gallery Chats at OMCA

Gallery Chats puts a twist on the traditional museum tour by encouraging meaningful conversations and fresh interpretations of the artwork, artifacts, and stories in OMCA’s galleries. This informal drop-in experience is an opportunity for visitors to share their personal reflections with and ask questions of our enthusiastic and knowledgeable volunteer facilitators.

Learn More

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Member Tours: Women’s History Month Artwalk with Avril Angevine
2026-03-14 12:00 - 13:00 | OMCA Gallery of California Art, 1000 Oak St, Oakland, California, 94607, United States
First Sundays

Member Tours: Women’s History Month Artwalk with Avril Angevine

Join us for a woman-focused walk-through of the Gallery of California Art. Take a deep dive into the background of some of California’s best—and least—known women artists, including Hung Liu, Sonia Gechtoff, Viola Frey, Margaret Peterson, Ann Weber, Carmen Lomas Garza. Delight in their works and hear stories about their lives, practices, and challenges with Gallery Chats facilitator Avril Angevine.

BECOME A MEMBER

Please note that tour spots are limited. A sign up sheet will be available at the Ticketing Desk when checking in so get here early to grab your spot!

Facilitator

Avril Angevine is an OMCA Gallery Chats Facilitator and a lifelong art aficionado with a particular interest in modern, contemporary, and California art. She speaks on art subjects at various locations in the Bay Area, including the OLLI programs at Santa Clara University, Dominican College, San Francisco State, and the Fromm Institute. Avril has a BA in English and an MA in Comparative Literature from UC Berkeley and has taught English and Humanities at local colleges. She is also a museum guide at the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art, the Sonoma Valley Museum of Art, and the Oakland Museum of California.

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 Yeny Valdés & TeamBahia
2026-04-03 17:00 - 21:00 | OMCA campus
First Sundays

Live Music by Yeny Valdés & TeamBahia, Drag Storytime with Per Sia, Dance Ribbon Making, Music Set by DJ Kream, and Gallery Chats

Friday Nights at OMCA kicks off the 2026 season with the vibrant and joyful rhythms of the Caribbean as Yeny Valdés & TeamBahia take the Garden Stage. Blending timba, salsa, son, and tropical fusion, their high-energy set will have you dancing and celebrating all night long. The party continues with Oakland’s own DJ Kream, spinning soulful, rhythm-forward beats rooted in deep house, funk, and feel-good grooves to keep the dance floor moving.

Families can gather in the Garden for Drag Storytime with Per Sia, featuring a reading of Celia Cruz, Queen of Salsa, an inspiring tribute to the Queen of Salsa. Plus, get hands-on and make your own colorful dance ribbon in a festive art activity celebrating movement and spring.

Alongside an exceptional event experience, Friday Nights at OMCA also feature a dynamic gallery offering with 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 and Special Exhibition admission. Facilitators float between galleries throughout the night and can be seen wearing a blue “Let’s Chat” shirt.

Program Schedule:

5:15 pm Drag Storytime with Per Sia | Garden

5:30–7:30 pm Dance Ribbon Making | Garden

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

6–7:15 pm Live Music by Yeny Valdés & TeamBahia | Garden Stage

6:45–8:50 pm Music Set by DJ Kream | 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

Yeny Valdés & TeamBahia

DJ Kream

Per Sia

Off the Grid Food Truck Lineup

Performer BIOS

About Yeny Valdes & TeamBahia

Yeny Valdés is a renowned Cuban singer with five Latin Grammy nominations and was the lead vocalist of Los Van Van—one of Cuba’s most iconic bands—for 16 years. Now based in the Bay Area, she leads as the principal singer of TeamBahia, a powerful orchestra directed by her husband, musician, percussionist, and vocalist Erick Barberia. Together, they fuse Cuba’s rich musical heritage with a modern, vibrant sound that lights up the stage with soul and tropical flavor.

About 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.

About Per Sia

San Francisco’s current Drag Laureate, Per Sia, is a first-generation Trans Mexican-American drag artist raised in South Central Los Angeles, with drag roots in San Francisco’s Mission District. Her multidisciplinary practice spans performance, curation, television, and storytelling, presented in spaces ranging from local bars to major museums, including the Fine Arts Museums of San Francisco and the Oakland Museum of California. A graduate of the University of California, Santa Cruz, she is a co-founder of Drag Story Hour and an educator with Children’s After School Arts, with work featured on KQED Arts, National Public Radio, and CNN.

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 SambaDá
2026-04-10 17:00 - 21:00 | OMCA campus
First Sundays

Live Music by SambaDá, Baile Funk Dance Lesson w/ Weslie Guimarães, DJ Set by murcutian, OMCA Members’ Lounge, and Gallery Chats

Step into your weekend with Brazilian-inspired music, dance, and joyful connection at Friday Nights at OMCA. On the Garden Stage, SambaDá delivers a joy-filled set rooted in electric Brazilian rhythms with a funky American twist. Blending samba, funk, soul, and global grooves, their infectious live performance brings radiant energy and irresistible beats that keep the crowd moving.

In the Amphitheater, a Baile Funk dance lesson with Weslei Guimarães spotlights the dynamic style born in Rio de Janeiro’s favelas. This all-levels class introduces signature steps and expressive movements that celebrate the culture, creativity, and community of Brazil’s Funk Carioca tradition.

Keeping the dance floor lively, murcutian spins a fun, family-friendly DJ set of Latine favorites, ’70s classics, Y2K hits, Hip-Hop, and R&B—timeless, flavorful sounds designed to get everyone moving.

Alongside an exceptional event experience, Friday Nights at OMCA also feature a dynamic gallery offering with 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 and Special Exhibition 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 Baile Funk Dance Lesson w/ Weslei Guimarães | Amphitheater

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

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

6:45–8:50 pm DJ Set by murcutian | Amphitheater

*Due to expected rain, our Member Lounge originally scheduled for April 10 has been postponed. We look forward to welcoming you soon and are planning to reschedule for a Friday in May—stay tuned for updates!

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

SambaDá

Weslei Guimarães

murcutian

Off the Grid Food Truck Lineup

Performer BIOS

About SambaDá

For over 25 years, SambaDá has built a vibrant musical bridge between traditional and contemporary Brazilian sounds and modern global influences. Led by Brazilian natives, Papiba Godinho and Dandha Da Hora, the group’s powerhouse ensemble delivers a joyous blend of Afro-samba-Reggae-funk that keeps feet dancing and hearts open.

About murcutian

murcutian is a Bay Area selector and founder of Her DJ Club, and a proud child of Salvadoran immigrants whose earliest memories are rooted in the rhythms and sounds of home. A self-taught DJ, she brings an eclectic flavor to any space and has rocked crowds at the California Academy of Sciences, The Exploratorium, Hello Stranger, and, most recently, KQED. She brings people together through sound, with an energy and skill that has captivated audiences across the Bay and beyond.

About Weslei Guimarães

Weslei Guimarães is a director, instructor, and performer native to Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Weslei specializes in several Brazilian ballroom dances, including Forro, Samba de Gafieira, Bolero (National Champion, 2016), and other Río-style dances such as Samba no Pé and Brazilian funk. He has performed on many stages across continents, and recently founded his own dance school, Sou Samba Studios (2023), in Berkeley, CA, where he teaches weekly classes dedicated to preserving the Brazilian arts.

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 The Philharmonik
2026-04-17 17:00 - 21:00 | OMCA campus
First Sundays

Live Music by The Philharmonik, Sketchboard Co. Live Figure Drawing, Music Set by DJ Hauna Bauna, and Gallery Chats

This evening, Friday Nights at OMCA is bringing you and your crew soulful grooves, infectious rhythms, and playful creativity. The Philharmonik sets the tone on the Garden Stage with a passionate blend of R&B, funk, soul, and Hip-Hop, energizing the crowd and inspiring dancing and singing for all ages. Over in the Amphitheater, DJ Hauna Bauna adds to the vibrations with a high-energy, genre-spanning set—from Hip-Hop and Afro beats to house, Jersey club, Nola bounce, and R&B—creating a rhythm-driven journey that moves everyone.

A crowd favorite, Sketchboard Co., is back in the galleries with uninstructed live figure drawing.

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 feature a dynamic gallery offering with 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 and Special Exhibition admission. Facilitators float between galleries throughout the night and can be seen wearing a blue “Let’s Chat” shirt.

Program Schedule:

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

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

6–7 pm Live Music by The Philharmonik | Garden Stage

6:45–8:50 pm Music Set by DJ Hauna Bauna | Amphitheater

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

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 Philharmonik

Sketchboard Co.

DJ Hauna Bauna

Off the Grid Food Truck Lineup

Performer BIOS

About The Philharmonik

Christian Gates, known professionally as The Philharmonik, is an American vocalist, multi-instrumentalist, lyricist, music producer, and genre defining artist. From NPR’s Tiny Desk to The Bluenote Jazz Clubs in NYC and Tokyo to Montreux Jazz Festival in Switzerland, his live shows have moved and inspired audiences around the world.

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. Our 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 DJ Hauna Bauna

DJ Hauna Bauna is from San Jose, CA, and has been DJing for three years. She’s a lover of music and loves to dance. Her sets consist of Hip-Hop, Afrobeats, house, Jersey club, Nola bounce, and R&B.

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 CO-LLAB Choir
2026-04-24 17:00 - 21:00 | OMCA campus
First Sundays

Live Music by CO-LLAB Choir, Hip Hop Dance Lesson with Samara Atkins, DJ Set by AMAL, and Gallery Chats

Celebrate an evening of powerful vocals, dynamic movement, and genre-spanning sounds this Friday Nights at OMCA. The Garden Stage will be transformed as CO-LLAB Choir presents an uplifting set of contemporary music and original compositions performed with a live band. Featuring standout soloists alongside the full ensemble, the Oakland-based choir brings rich harmonies and collaborative spirit to every song.

Over in the Amphitheater, a Hip-Hop dance lesson with Samara Atkins offers an engaging, all-levels experience rooted in accessible, dynamic movement. From warm-up to choreography, the class creates space for dancers of all ages and abilities to move with confidence and joy.

Rounding out the night, AMAL curates a genre-spanning music set—from funk and house to R&B, disco, global grooves, and future beats—blending styles seamlessly to keep the energy flowing across the dance floor.

Alongside an exceptional event experience, Friday Nights at OMCA also feature a dynamic gallery offering with 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 and Special Exhibition 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 Hip-Hop Dance Lesson with Samara Atkins | Amphitheater

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

6:30–7:30 pm Live Music by CO-LLAB Choir | Garden Stage

6:45–8:50 pm DJ Set by AMAL | 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

CO-LLAB Choir

Samara Atkins

AMAL

Off the Grid Food Truck Lineup

Performer BIOS

About CO-LLAB Choir

CO-LLAB Choir is an Oakland-based contemporary vocal ensemble for adults working with vocal artists and singer-songwriters to bring their music to life in a vocal ensemble setting. The ensemble co-arranges and co-writes music together as well as collaborates with professional artists on studio recordings and performances. The choir has performed at venues and festivals such as Super Bowl 60, Outside Lands, the Oakland Coliseum, the Fox Theater, SFJazz, Shoreline Amphitheatre, Yoshi’s, Bandcamp Oakland, Empire Records, Yerba Buena Gardens Festival, MOAD, Berkeley Rep, the Academy of Sciences, the Empress Theatre in Vallejo, the Paramount, and the Vermont in LA. The CO-LLAB Choir is currently touring, recording, and performing with the artist LaRussell and works regularly with Empire Records on studio recordings. CO-LLAB Choir is directed and founded by longtime Oakland music educator and artist, Cava Menzies.

About Samara Atkins

Oakland-born Samara Atkins uses Hip-Hop and street dance as an arts practice to both connect with the world and as a vehicle to cope, celebrate, heal, and express joy. Samara is a co-founder and co-director of the all-female dance company Mix’d Ingrdnts, is a member of the GRAMMY-Award winning music group Alphabet Rockers, and is a seasoned teaching artist at Destiny Arts Center. Samara brings a beautifully hype and fun energy to her dance style that invites and encourages people of all ages to get up and be moved.

About AMAL

AMAL is a DJ, music curator, and event producer based out of Oakland, California. With music at the center of her work and creations, Amal’s multifaceted sound, inspired by her Egyptian and Bay Area roots, holds no genre boundary. From R&B to future beats, soul to world, house to hip-hop, and everything in between – Amal’s work holds a common thread of building feeling, connection, and community.

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 Elujay
2026-05-08 17:00 - 21:00 | OMCA campus
First Sundays

Live Music by Elujay, R&B Dance Lesson with Sara Templeton, Music Set with DJ Harmonyy, Spring Teacher Night, and Gallery Chats

This Friday Night at OMCA, Elujay ignites the Garden Stage with his live band, delivering a genre-blending sound that weaves together alternative R&B, jazz, soul, house, and dream pop. Known for his honey-toned vocals and introspective songwriting, his performance promises a rich, immersive musical experience rooted in Oakland and resonating far beyond. Keeping the energy flowing, DJ Harmonyy brings an electrifying set filled with feel-good tracks and infectious rhythms.

Guests are encouraged to step into their groove with Sara Templeton, leading a beginner-friendly R&B dance lesson. Blending smooth grooves, Hip-Hop foundations, and expressive choreography, this session invites dancers of all levels to learn new moves and build confidence on the dance floor.

Earlier in the evening, OMCA’s Annual Spring Teacher Night is back! In celebration of our school communities, educators and principals are invited to unwind in a dedicated lounge space, connect with fellow educators, and explore the Museum’s galleries and resources. The gathering highlights OMCA’s school programs and exhibitions like Good Fire: Tending Native Lands and Students on Strike, while offering a chance to experience the vibrant Friday Nights atmosphere.

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:

4:30–7 pm Spring Teacher Night Check-In and Lounge | California Room, Lower Level

5:30–6:30 pmR&B Dance Lesson with Sara Templeton | Amphitheater

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

6:30–7:30 pm Live Music by Elujay | Garden Stage

6:45–8:45 pm Music Set by DJ Harmonyy | 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

Elujay

Sara Templeton

DJ Harmonyy

Off the Grid Food Truck Lineup

Performer BIOS

About Elujay

Elujay is a singer, songwriter, producer, and director from Oakland whose sound fluidly blends alternative R&B, jazz, soul, house, and dream pop. A multi-instrumentalist with a honey-toned voice and forward-thinking production style, he has released multiple critically acclaimed projects over the past four years, toured internationally, and secured major TV placements. His latest offering, A Constant Charade, with tracks like “Hyundai” and “Flotilla,” showcases his ability to pair pacifying vocals with restless and inventive production that nods to early ’80s soft rock, drum’n’bass, and house without losing its soulful core.
As JEMS!—a duo alongside J. Robb—Elujay expands his sonic palette with rhythmic experimentation and left-field R&B in projects like Gems in the Cornerstore and Gems in the Cornerstore 2. With each release, Elujay continues refining a sound that feels both deeply Oakland-rooted and globally resonant.

About DJ Harmonyy

DJ Harmonyy, also known as the love DJ (with two yy’s), is a California-based female DJ with a household name who has built a brand around energy, intention, and human connection. Known for her ability to move effortlessly across live performances, festivals, club events, and corporate gatherings, she—by design—operates completely outside of traditional categories.

About Sara Templeton

Sara is a SF-based choreographer, teacher, and dancer. She started her professional career as a Hip-Hop dancer and later expanded her expertise to include modern, ballet, Dunham technique, and the dance forms associated with her Puerto Rican heritage. Sara has choreographed for both stage and film and currently teaches at studios around the Bay Area.

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 La Cumbiamba Colombiana & Combo Tezeta
2026-05-15 17:00 - 21:00 | OMCA campus
First Sundays

Live Dance by La Cumbiamba Colombiana, Live Music by Combo Tezeta, Music Set by DJ Olga T, Live Figure Drawing by Sketchboard Co., and Gallery Chats

This evening, Friday Nights at OMCA brings vibrant rhythms, rich cultural traditions, and dance-floor energy to the Garden Stage. La Cumbiamba Colombiana kicks off the evening with a lively dance performance celebrating the roots of Colombian cumbia, weaving together ancestral steps and Afro-Caribbean influences in a colorful, high-energy showcase. Then, Combo Tezeta, whose psychedelic take on cumbia, chicha, and música tropical blends surf rock textures with hypnotic Latin rhythms, takes the stage to create an irresistibly danceable atmosphere that bridges past and present.

Over in the Amphitheater, DJ Olga T delivers a dynamic set filled with Latin rhythms, Afrobeats, R&B, and soulful house. Known for her seamless genre-spanning mixes and infectious energy, she’ll keep the crowd moving and the vibes flowing all night long.

In the galleries, Sketchboard Co. is here to help guests scratch their creative itch with uninstructed live figure drawing.

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. 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:

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

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

6–6:30 pm Live Dance by La Cumbiamba Colombiana | Garden Stage

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

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

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

* Paid gallery admission required

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

La Cumbiamba Colombiana

Combo Tezeta

DJ Olga T

Sketchboard Co.

Off the Grid Food Truck Lineup

Performer BIOS

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. Our 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 La Cumbiamba Colombiana

La Cumbiamba Colombiana is a non-profit folkloric group established in 2014 with the mission of preserving Colombian heritage, culture, and folklore in San Francisco and the Bay Area. Best known for showcasing the traditional Colombian Cumbia, a rhythm that was declared Intangible Cultural Heritage of all Colombians, the group proudly represents empowerment, resilience, and freedom through their dances.

About Combo Tezeta

Based out of the Bay Area, Combo Tezeta plays a highly danceable blend of instrumental Cumbias, Chichas, and Musica Tropical inspired by the late 60’s and early 70’s era of psychedelic Peru.
Combo Tezeta has performed at many local venues as well as toured up and down the West Coast. Recent highlights include 2024’s The Hardly Strictly Bluegrass Festival, Noise Pop’s Summer of Music Fest (w/Thundercat), two performances in the Great American Music Hall, and opening for Los Mirlos of Peru and Los Bitchos from the UK. Their growing momentum is demonstrated as they headline their own shows and are increasingly requested to open for other high-profile artists as they travel through the Bay Area.

About DJ Olga T

Olga T, a Puerto Rican lover of all things music, community, and human connection through rhythm and beats, was born in NYC and raised in San Francisco, and has an explosive style of DJing that never fails to grab your attention on the dance floor. A Northern Californian legend known for masterfully transitioning through nearly every genre of music while creating live unrehearsed remixes, Olga T consistently delivers a uniquely infectious excitement to the audience. DJing for the past 20 years while producing iconic Bay Area events year-round in addition to teaching DJ classes, creating exclusive remixes, edits and mixtapes is Olga T’s full-time passion. Go to www.soundcloud.com/djolgat to explore a plethora of mixtapes of various music genres created by DJ Olga T.

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 Pacific Mambo Orchestra
2026-05-22 17:00 - 21:00 | OMCA campus
First Sundays

Live Music by Pacific Mambo Orchestra, Music Set by Dj Sizzle, Salsa Dance Lesson with Ramón Ramos Alayo, OMCA Members’ Lounge, and Gallery Chats

Friday Nights at OMCA is set to kick off your weekend with bold Latin sounds, vibrant dance, and nonstop rhythm. Pacific Mambo Orchestra takes over the Garden Stage with an electrifying live performance, blending mambo, salsa, Latin jazz, and big band tradition into a high-energy vibe that’s both timeless and fresh. Known for their explosive stage presence and world-class musicianship, the Grammy Award-winning ensemble delivers a powerful, dance-ready experience.

Keeping the energy alive, Dj Sizzle spins a lively mix of cumbia, reggaeton, salsa, merengue, Hip-Hop, R&B, and global beats, curating a feel-good soundtrack that keeps the dance floor moving.

Guests are invited to step into the rhythm with Ramón Ramos Alayo who will lead a salsa dance lesson rooted in Cuban tradition. With an emphasis on connection, musicality, and joyful expression, this session welcomes dancers of all levels to build confidence and add a little extra flavor to their moves.

On the Upper Level Terrace the Museum welcomes its Members to a special Members’ Lounge. Members can enjoy light refreshments, sidewalk chalk, family-friendly games, and a bingo give-away featuring awesome OMCA merch! It’s the perfect way to mingle with fellow OMCA enthusiasts all while overlooking the Garden buzzing with Friday Nights energy.

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:

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

5:30–7:30 pm Member Lounge | Upper Level Terrace

5:30–6:30 pm Salsa Dance Lesson with Ramón Ramos Alayo | Amphitheater

6:30–7:30 pm Live Music by Pacific Mambo Orchestra | Garden Stage

6:45–8:45 pm Music Set by Dj Sizzle | 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

Pacific Mambo Orchestra

Dj Sizzle

Ramón Ramos Alayo

Off the Grid Food Truck Lineup

Performer BIOS

About Pacific Mambo Orchestra

Pacific Mambo Orchestra (PMO) is a Grammy Award-winning Latin big band from San Francisco that has become one of the leading forces in keeping the great mambo and Latin jazz orchestra tradition alive in the 21st century. Founded in 2010 by pianist Christian Tumalan and trumpeter Steffen Kuehn, the 19-piece ensemble gained international recognition after winning the 2014 Grammy Award for Best Tropical Latin Album with its debut release, launching the band onto major stages around the world. Combining the spirit of Tito Puente, Machito, and the classic mambo orchestras with bold original compositions and modern arrangements, PMO delivers explosive, high-energy performances marked by virtuoso musicianship and powerful big band sound. From major jazz festivals to concert halls across the United States, Europe, Canada, and Latin America, Pacific Mambo Orchestra has earned a reputation for unforgettable live shows that celebrate the past, present, and future of Latin big band music.

About Dj Sizzle

Dj Sizzle is an artist and producer based in California, where she splits her time between The Bay Area and Los Angeles. She is the co-founder and director of Cumbiaton, an intergenerational cultural movement that celebrates Afro-Latin culture, community, and self-expression.

About Ramón Ramos Alayo

Ramón Ramos Alayo was selected by the Cuban government to study dance in Santiago de Cuba at age eleven. In 1990, he earned a master’s degree in contemporary and folkloric dance and dance education from Havana’s National School of Art. As a graduate specializing in folkloric and contemporary dance, he was a principal dancer with several prominent Cuban dance companies, including Danza del Caribe and Narcisco Medina Contemporary Dance Company, touring throughout Europe, Belize, and Canada. His success continued after relocating to the U.S. in 1997; he has performed as a dancer with numerous outstanding companies, including Robert Henry Johnson, Kim Epifano, Sara Shelton Mann, Zaccho Dance Theatre and Robert Moses’ Kin. Ramon currently teaches Cuban popular dance, Afro-Cuban modern dance, and children’s movement at several local dance studios and schools.

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 OMCASpecial Members Lounge
2026-05-22 17:30 - 19:30 | OMCA Garden, 1000 Oak Street, Oakland, California, 94607, United States
First Sundays

Join us Friday, May 22 for our rescheduled Member Lounge!

Calling all Members! You’re invited to a special Member Lounge on the Upper Level Terrace, overlooking our Garden, in celebration of you! Mingle with fellow OMCA enthusiasts while enjoying light refreshments, games, and bingo, where we’ll be giving away some amazing items from the OMCA Shop. Bring your friends and family, and enjoy Friday Nights together!

Friday Nights at OMCA with Off the Grid

Friday, May 22 | 5-9 pm

Friday Nights at OMCA is set to kick off your weekend with bold Latin sounds, vibrant dance, and nonstop rhythm. Pacific Mambo Orchestra takes over the Garden Stage with an electrifying live performance, blending mambo, salsa, Latin jazz, and big band tradition into a high-energy vibe that’s both timeless and fresh. In the Amphitheater, step into the rhythm with Ramón Ramos Alayo who will lead a salsa dance lesson rooted in Cuban tradition. With an emphasis on connection, musicality, and joyful expression, this session welcomes dancers of all levels to build confidence and add a little extra flavor to their moves. Keeping the energy alive, Dj Sizzle spins a lively mix of cumbia, reggaeton, salsa, merengue, Hip-Hop, R&B, and global beats, curating a feel-good soundtrack that keeps the dance floor moving. Throughout the evening, Gallery Chats invite visitors to join meaningful conversations with OMCA facilitators, offering fresh perspectives on the museum’s exhibitions. It’s not just a Friday night—it’s your Friday night at OMCA.

EVENT DETAILS

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Friday Nights at OMCA with Non Stop Bhangra
2026-05-29 17:00 - 21:00 | OMCA campus
First Sundays

Live Music and Dance by Non Stop Bhangra, DJ set by Lychy Jelly, and Gallery Chats

This Friday Night at OMCA turns up the energy with vibrant rhythms, cultural celebration, and nonstop movement. Non Stop Bhangra takes over the Garden Stage with an immersive, high-energy experience celebrating the music and dance of Punjab, India. Featuring live drumming, DJs, dance performances, and interactive lessons, this joyful, all-ages dance party invites everyone to jump in, let loose, and feel the beat.

Keeping the vibes flowing, Lychy Jelly delivers a powerful DJ set rooted in sound that hits with the intensity of a festival mainstage and yet has the familiar warmth of home. This duality, coupled with the duo’s electric stage presence, pulls the crowd into an experience that feels massive and yet profoundly intimate.

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:

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

5–8 pm Live Music and Dance by Non Stop Bhangra | Garden Stage

6:45–8:45 pm DJ Set by Lychy Jelly | 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

Non Stop Bhangra

Lychy Jelly

Off the Grid Food Truck Lineup

Performer BIOS

About Non Stop Bhangra

Non Stop Bhangra (NSB) is an award-winning event production and collective that transforms spaces into vibrant celebrations, sharing the energy of Punjabi music and dance with global audiences through immersive cultural experiences. Over the past 21 years, NSB has produced, collaborated, and performed at over 1,000 events across museums, festivals, performing arts centers, nightclubs, and landmark venues—including the Oakland Museum of California—while building community and fostering cross-cultural connections.
In 2023, NSB co-launched Bhangra & Beats Night Market, the largest outdoor cultural destination for South Asian arts in the Bay Area, voted San Francisco’s Best Night Market (Editor’s Pick, 48 Hills), received two Certificates of Honor from the city of San Francisco and co-presented the city’s first official Diwali celebration.

About Lychy Jelly

Lychy Jelly is the San Francisco-based DJ duo of Rushil and Diksha, partners in life and behind the decks. Their sets weave together global EDM genres, including House, Baile Funk, Bass, and more, blended with Pop and Desi anthems they grew up loving.

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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