Oakland Marathon (March (annually; 2026 was 17th edition)). Annual marathon, half marathon, 10K, 5K through Oakland landmarks. The only marathon featuring a run across the Bay Bridge. Drew 11,000+ runners in 2026.
Oakland Chinatown StreetFest (4th weekend of August annually (2026: Aug 22-23)). Free two-day festival covering 10 city blocks in Oakland Chinatown. ~80,000 attendees, 90+ vendors, two stages of live entertainment. 37th edition in 2026.
Oakland Black Cowboy Parade and Heritage Festival (October (annually since 1975)). Founded by Lonnie Scoggins; first held in 1975 in partnership with the Oakland Museum. One of the longest-running parades of its kind in the US. Parade begins and ends at DeFremery Park, West Oakland.
Autumn Lights Festival (Three nights in October (2025: Oct 16-18; 2026: Oct 15-17)). 90+ illuminated art installations across the eight-acre Gardens at Lake Merritt. Nightly 6 pm–11 pm. Annual fundraiser for the Friends of the Gardens at Lake Merritt.
Oakland First Fridays / Art Murmur (First Friday of every month, 5 pm–9 pm (year-round)). Monthly street festival on Telegraph Avenue from West Grand to 27th Street. Up to 30,000 attendees. Free, all ages. Art Murmur affiliate galleries hold coordinated openings 6–9 pm the same evening.