Claremont Middle School hosts its annual Auction Gala, “Casino Night,” on Saturday, April 18 from 6–11pm at the Masonic Lodge at 5449 College Ave. This adults-only evening brings the community together for a stylish night of dinner, drinks, and fundraising in support of CMS students.

The event begins with a beer and wine cocktail hour, followed by a plated sit-down dinner and an exciting live auction featuring standout items and experiences. Casino tables will be open throughout the night, adding an extra layer of fun and friendly competition.

Guests are encouraged to dress in classic casino glamour—think elegant, polished, and bold. Each ticket includes cocktail hour, dinner, open bar, casino access, and participation in the live auction.

The excitement continues online with the CMS Auction launching April 1, and continuing until April 15, offering a wide range of items and experiences. Highlights include spa packages, wine tastings, gift cards to local restaurants, jewelry, and fitness classes such as yoga and Pilates. Participants can also bid on tickets to popular CMS-hosted parties, including themed gatherings like a Hot Dog Party, Ethiopian Dinner, and Mahjong Night.

For those looking to get more involved, CMS is seeking volunteers to assist with auction setup, guest check-in, and event closing. Volunteering offers a fun and meaningful way to support the event while connecting with the school community. For tickets, volunteer opportunities, and auction details, please visit the CMS PTA website.

Edges of Attention
Saturday, April 16 through May 23

Artists’ Reception: Saturday, April 25, 1-4pm
GearBox Gallery, 770 West Grand Avenue

Edges of Attention, an art exhibit with Rockridge artist Javier Arizendi-Kalb, and Susana Arias.

Javier Arizmendi-Kalb grew up Mexico City, where he learned to paint at young age from a group of landscape painters which included his grandfather, Marcos Kalb. He graduated from Dartmouth College in 1986 with a degree in engineering and art history, receiving the Ames Fine Arts Award. In 1991 he completed an MA in Architecture with distinction at the Harvard Graduate School of Design. He has lived in the Bay Area since 1994.

Annual Ride 4A Reason
Saturday, April 25
Pedal for Public Schools at the 18th Annual Ride 4A Reason.

What began in 2009 with four parents riding from Oakland Tech to the State Capitol has raised more than $2 million for Oakland and Alameda schools. On Saturday, April 25, cyclists of all levels can choose 110-, 68-, or 45-mile routes ending in Sacramento, plus a virtual option. Last year, 325 riders raised $225,000, benefiting 12 schools. R4R prioritizes campuses serving historically marginalized communities and equitably directs funds for essential programs and staff. Riders commit to raising $250 toward a $200,000 goal. Learn more at r4rschools.org.

Taste of Temescal
Wednesday, April 29 | 5:30–8:30pm
Temescal District, Oakland

The annual Taste of Temescal returns for an evening of food, drink, and neighborhood exploration in one of Oakland’s most celebrated dining districts. Temescal invites guests to stroll the neighborhood and sample offerings from a wide range of local restaurants, bars, and specialty businesses—all while enjoying live entertainment throughout the event.

Participants will take part in a self-guided tasting experience using an official event “Passport,” which provides access to food samples and select wine and beer tastings at participating locations across the district.

Tickets are $60 for adults and $25 for youth under 15 (plus processing fees). Advance purchase is recommended, as the event often sells out. Proceeds benefit the Telegraph Temescal District Association, supporting local arts, culture, and community initiatives.

7th Annual LakeFest Oakland
June 27, from 11am to 7pm
Come for a full day of music, culture, food, and community. Experience with three amazing stages featuring local talent, a dedicated gospel zone celebrating faith and music, a tech and innovation hub, a health and wellness zone, and family-friendly activities in the Kid’s Zone. Celebrate the beauty, diversity, and vibrant spirit of Oakland with performances, interactive programming, and immersive experiences for all ages.

Tickets:
Kids 5 and under enter free. Tickets for children ages 6 to 10 are $5, and general admission for ages 11 and up is $10. Tickets are available online and at the door.

Additional Information:
LakeFest Oakland is ADA accessible. No re-entry is allowed, and outside food, beverages, or alcohol are prohibited. Dogs on leashes are welcome, and blankets, lawn chairs, and umbrellas are permitted, but tents are not allowed. Street parking is available, and Douglas Parking garages at 180 Grand provide a free shuttle to the festival entrance.

The Temescal Street Fair
Saturday, July 11, 2026, from 11am–7 pm

This free, family-friendly event features three stages of live music, outdoor dining from award-winning restaurants, artisan cocktails, a children’s zone, vendor market, dance competition, and local fashion show. Attracting over 15,000 attendees annually, the fair celebrates and supports Oakland’s vibrant Temescal District.