This week promises to be a vibrant one in Oakland, highlighted by the long-awaited announcement of the 2025 Oakland Youth Poet Laureate.
As a guest judge for the selection process, I eagerly anticipate the unveiling of the winner, who will take on the important role of representing our city as an ambassador for literacy and youth expression.
The Youth Poet Laureate announcement event will occur on Friday, June 6, at 7 p.m. at Oakstop, located at 1721 Broadway.
This annual contest has empowered Oakland teens aged 13 to 18 to showcase their poetry and spoken word talents for the past 14 years.
The evening will not only feature the announcement of the laureate but also include captivating performances by the finalists, making it a must-see event for anyone interested in the arts.
In addition to the poet laureate festivities, Saturday, June 7, marks the grand opening of the Oakland LGBTQ Center’s new site in East Oakland.
After eight years of serving the Black and brown LGBTQ community from its original location on Lakeshore, this expansion includes a new clinic and wellness center.
The opening celebration will run from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m. at 8400 Enterprise Way and will feature live entertainment, free food, a raffle, and opportunities to connect with other local organizations serving the community.
Also taking place on the same day is the Annual East Oakland Futures Fest, celebrating the history and contributions of East Oakland residents.
This year, the festival will kick off at Liberation Park with a bike ride hosted by the Scraper Bike Team, leading to Scraper Bike Way on 90th Avenue between Holly and Birch Streets.
Visitors can look forward to a family-friendly atmosphere with entertainment, over 40 local vendors, artisans, and small businesses, along with live performances by artists including rapper JWalt, headliners Stonï, and The Love Moore Show.
From 12 p.m. to 6 p.m., this event promises a lively experience for everyone.
Art lovers will have the opportunity to explore the Summer Open Studios in Jingletown on Saturday and Sunday, June 7 and 8, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
As one of Oakland’s historic arts districts, local artists will open their workspaces to the public, allowing visitors to witness their creative processes firsthand.
Participating studios include Chapman Street Studios and Norton Factory Studios, amongst others, providing a unique glimpse into the artistic community.
Mark your calendars for a significant civic event on Sunday, June 8, from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m., as the Oakland Inaugural Committee celebrates Mayor Barbara Lee’s inauguration.
Taking place at Jack London Square, this community gathering will feature live music, a ceremonial swearing-in, and coincide with the weekly farmers market, fostering community connection and engagement.
For those seeking a musical experience, David Cook, the winner of American Idol in 2008, will be performing at Yoshi’s on Friday, June 6, at 7 p.m.
Tickets are priced between $37 and $79 for those interested in enjoying his show.
Looking ahead, mark your calendars for Cuco’s performance at the Fox Theater on September 10 at 7 p.m., where the Southern California singer-songwriter will bring his unique synth-pop and lo-fi sounds to Oakland.
With a variety of events from artistic showcases to community celebrations, this weekend in Oakland offers something for everyone.
image source from：https://oaklandside.org/2025/06/03/oakland-events-things-to-do-june-6-to-8-2/
