Events in Hayward today

Teens and tweens are invited to a weekly Pokémon Trading Card Game club in the TeenZone at the Cesar E. Chavez Branch Library. Participants can learn the basics of gameplay, practice building decks, open packs, and connect with peers while fostering a sense of community.

The ESL Conversation Club offers a welcoming space for English learners to practice together. Instead of studying on your own, connect with peers and build language skills through conversation in a friendly, encouraging setting.

Build confidence on the dance floor with a beginner-friendly Social Mixer Ballroom Class led by professional ballroom instructor Christian Solares. The class focuses on practical skills for social dance parties, weddings, ballroom events, cruises, and nights out at clubs, helping you feel comfortable dancing in any setting. Instruction covers foundational ballroom technique, lead and follow, rhythm and timing, and approachable partner work in a relaxed, social atmosphere. No partner is required, and everyone is welcome.

International Standard ballroom classes at Just Dance Ballroom focus on elevating technique for all experience levels. Debbie and Stephen Cullip lead the instruction, with guidance from Professional Ballroom Champion Stephen Cullip. Dancers working on fundamentals and those refining advanced choreography alike can expect focused training to advance their skills.

Build your West Coast Swing skills in a friendly, progressive program designed for both newcomers and experienced dancers looking to refine their basics. The curriculum moves through Levels 1 to 3 in monthly modules so you can steadily add technique and confidence. No partner or prior dance experience is needed, just bring your energy. From Level 2 and up, supplemental classes help you meet assessment criteria for advancing. After class, stay for practica and a weekly social to practice what you learned and connect with the community. Pricing options include a $25 drop-in class with a $5 discount available in advance, $15 for social-only entry, and $35 for a class plus social, payable at the door. First-timers receive their class free. To keep dance accessible, The Omni Movement offers an Ambassador work-trade program with 50 percent and 100 percent discounts, and the Omni Promise reserves discounted spots for community members in need at 50 percent of the standard rate.

Speed Meeting Mondays at The New Parkway Theater offers a free, easygoing way to meet new people without the pressure. A friendly staff host guides the flow so no one feels stuck or unsure of what to do next. The evening starts with a simple group activity that uses conversation prompt cards to make introductions feel natural. After that, attendees rotate through short, relaxed chats, making it simple to connect with several people without worrying about when to begin or move on. The atmosphere is intentionally casual and welcoming for those who feel nervous in social settings. There is no expectation to perform or be outgoing. Come alone or with friends, participate at a pace that feels right, and engage only as much as is comfortable. Food and drinks are available for purchase in the lobby throughout. Whether the goal is to make friends, broaden a community, or try something different, the focus is on genuine connection. Arrive comfortable and curious, and simply be yourself.

A bilingual storytime features stories, music, and movement activities. An additional hour of open play follows. Designed especially for children ages 18 months to 4 years. Accessibility information is available.

Kids can dive into a hands-on craft each week, exploring creativity through projects that may include painting, cutting, and gluing. The atmosphere is relaxed and playful, creating space for imagination and simple fun. Accessibility information is available.

Give your young pup a chance to mingle in a dedicated social session for puppies 9 to 16 weeks old. Participants need at least one vaccination completed seven days beforehand, and puppies must have lived in their new home for at least 10 days. Advance registration is required, and spots are limited with signups closing once capacity is reached.

American Smooth and Rhythm dance classes take place at Just Dance Ballroom with instruction from Vanessa and Elizabeth Thomason. Weekly programming features two consecutive sessions, beginning with a class for beginners and followed by an intermediate lesson, so dancers can choose the level that best matches their experience.

Dungeons & Dragons at The New Parkway offers a relaxed, welcoming tabletop session with several simultaneous games led by different Dungeon Masters. Newcomers and seasoned players are both supported, with tables suited to every level and a community that includes regulars, some of whom started as players and now run games. It is easy to jump in with beginner-friendly options, no prior experience needed and no long commitment required, whether dropping in for a single session or returning more often. Participants can arrive alone or with friends, choose a table that matches their style, and dive into a collaborative story filled with creativity and fun. Food and drinks are available to buy, and getting there a little early helps with settling in before play begins. Roll the dice, get comfortable, and step into the adventure.

Lydia Pense & Cold Blood bring the storied East Bay Grease sound to Yoshi’s Oakland, led by vocalist Lydia Pense, whose range spans fiery soul shouts and quietly intense blues. The group first broke through during the Fillmore’s prime, drawing the attention of Bill Graham, who signed them to his label. Their late-sixties and early-seventies run helped shape a funky blend of soul and R&B that still resonates today. Early releases such as Cold Blood, Sisyphus, First Taste of Sin, and Thriller remain among their best-known work, and the band continues to record and perform with a veteran Bay Area lineup featuring a gritty horn punch and a deep-groove rhythm section, with credits alongside Elvin Bishop, Jefferson Starship, Boz Skaggs, and Albert Collins. Performances often include essentials like You Got Me Hummin’, I Just Want To Make Love To You, I’m A Good Woman, and Down to the Bone, alongside songs from Soul Of The Gypsy, a collection that shows how the group pushes ahead while honoring its roots. Admirers over the years have included Bonnie Raitt, Michelle Shocked, David Lee Roth, and, in earlier days, Janis Joplin.

Frank’s Sports Bar hosts a weekly karaoke night with a live DJ spinning favorite tracks. Expect karaoke all evening, refreshing drinks, and a lively, welcoming atmosphere. It suits both seasoned performers and casual singers, whether arriving solo or with friends, with plenty of chances to take the mic and shine.

Settle into The New Parkway Theater for a laid-back creative evening centered on sketching, sipping, and conversation in a friendly, low pressure atmosphere. All skill levels are welcome, from first-timers to seasoned artists, and you can doodle, experiment, or work on your own ideas at whatever pace feels right. Bring your favorite supplies or use materials provided on site. Come on your own or with friends, grab a drink, and relax. Beer, wine, non-alcoholic options, and food are available for purchase throughout the night. There is no formal instruction and no expectations, just time to make art and enjoy good company.

A weekly healing circle for Black men focuses on the circle process and collective healing, with co-founder Gary Malachi Faciane sharing more about these practices. Sessions take place at the RJOY Office. A free meal is provided. Sign up is available for those interested in visiting or joining.

A dance party at Just Dance Ballroom welcomes both seasoned dancers and those curious to try something new. It offers a friendly atmosphere that provides a refreshing break in the middle of the week.

Settle in for a laid back team trivia night at The New Parkway Theater, centered on friendly competition, laughs, and community. Play solo or with friends, and feel free to team up with new people once you arrive. It is free to participate, and prizes are given out during the event, including a movie token redeemable for one movie ticket at The New Parkway and a peso worth one dollar off food at concessions. The theater serves classic concessions and a full menu along with beer and wine, with plenty of vegan options. The space can fill up, so arriving a little early helps with finding a table, getting comfortable, and grabbing food and drinks before the questions begin. Open to everyone, from seasoned quizzers to first timers, it offers an easygoing night out without the pressure.

At Yoshi's Oakland, Wild Night honors the music of Van Morrison with a show built on the legacy of its founder, the late Gary Coppola, who launched the project in 2019. The lineup features lead vocalist Jason Feddy, whose career includes opening for Neil Young, Tears for Fears, The Cranberries, Joe Cocker, and Christie Moore at stages such as the London Palladium and Albert Hall. Guitarist and singer Magic Kramer has performed and recorded with Ray Charles, Stevie Wonder, The Knack, Norah Jones, B.B. King, Diana Krall, Michael MacDonald, Willie Nelson, Bonnie Bramlett, Dave Stewart of Eurythmics, and Phillip Bailly of Earth, Wind, and Fire. Bassist and singer Bobby Pickett has worked with Sugarloaf, Etta James, Chuck Berry, Bo Diddley, Big Joe Turner, The Drifters, The Coasters, Martha Reeves, Bobby Freeman, and Greg Allman, and he spent many years with Detective. Drummer Chris Ross has toured and recorded with Maria Muldaur, Coco Montoya, Lyle Lovett, Mark Chestnutt, Kenny Loggins, John Waite, Three Dog Night, Grammy Award winner Pete Anderson, and Hall of Fame singer Sam Moore. Keyboardist Chris Rhyne has appeared on stage and on record with Santana, Whitney Houston, Jean Luc Ponty, Gino Vannelli, Dianne Reeves, Dave Koz, BB King, Buddy Rich, Burt Bacharach, and George Benson. Saxophonist and flutist Mel Steinberg has collaborated with Stevie Wonder, Ella Fitzgerald, Etta James, The Beach Boys, Paul Revere and the Raiders, Little Anthony and the Imperials, Lesley Gore, Sam "The Sham," Joe Williams, Emmanuel, Lupita d'Alessio, Little Joe y La Familia, Yoram Gaon, Dudu Fisher, and Alexander Bisenz. Baritone sax player Chris Jennings has credits with Martha Reeves, Freddy Cannon, Brian Wilson, José Feliciano, John Entwistle, Carla Olson, Doug Fieger, and Bob Hope. Trumpeter Gary Bivona has performed and recorded with Tom Jones, The Four Tops, Mel Torme, and Phil Hartman, and has also played on and produced tracks for Survivor and for television shows including Seinfeld, 21/2 Men, Hill St Blues, Frazier, Murphy Brown, Everybody Loves Raymond, and The Tonight Show. Promotional videos for the group were filmed by Nathaniel Beaver with support from Steve Vlasak and edited by Beaver with help from Magic Kramer.

Enjoy a Bachata class at Just Dance Ballroom in a friendly, welcoming setting, then keep the night going with a Bachata social dance party immediately after.

Bay Area Explorers hosts a short, beginner-friendly hike on the Sinawik Loop in Joaquin Miller Park in Oakland. Covering roughly 1.2 miles at an easygoing, social pace, the outing lasts about 45 minutes to an hour and offers time in shaded woodland and oak forest. Children are welcome, though the route may not suit very young kids because some sections are narrow and bike traffic is common. Dogs may join but must remain leashed and under control throughout. Parking is available near the ranger station across from the trailhead, with additional roadside pull-off options nearby. Bring water, wear comfortable hiking shoes, and pack a light layer since temperatures can cool in the evening. Solo participants are welcome, and no prior connections are needed.

Grammy-nominated R&B and soul artist Syleena Johnson performs at Yoshi's Oakland -Jack London square. A versatile talent, she has shared her gifts as a singer and songwriter, as well as an author and a host on daytime talk television. With a sultry voice, classic style, and commanding delivery, she has connected with fans for nearly twenty years.

A tango weekend in Oakland explores the genre’s breadth, from Golden Age favorites to contemporary and alternative sounds. The schedule features workshops with Nick Jones and Diana Cruz, live music by Trio Tangazo, and five milongas. Each evening includes two curated dance rooms, with the Golden Room presenting selections from the Golden Age through contemporary tango, and the Spectrum Room highlighting contemporary through alternative music. Designed for dancers who value musicality, creativity, and connection, it offers opportunities to learn in depth, dance with joy, and discover the wide range of tango.

West Coast Swing takes center stage at Just Dance Dance & Event Center with instruction from Stephanie Krul and Jason Wayne. The program starts with lessons for beginners and pre-intermediate dancers, followed by an intermediate class. After the classes, the dance floor opens for a West Coast Swing party.

Yoshi's Oakland -Jack London square hosts a performance by Grammy-nominated recording artist Syleena Johnson, an R&B and soul vocalist whose voice and clear, heartfelt delivery have resonated with listeners for many years. Her catalog spans the Chapter album series with songs like 'I Am Your Woman' and 'Guess What', collaborations with Kanye West, Common, and Anthony Hamilton, and the live-in-the-studio project 'Rebirth of Soul' created with her father, the legendary Syl Johnson. She also released the single 'WOMAN' from the album of the same name with Grammy-winning Toxic Productions. Beyond music, she has appeared on television programs including R&B Divas: Atlanta and Marriage Boot Camp, is part of the TV One daily talk show Sister Circle, and is the author of the self-help book 'The Weight Is Over'. This show brings her blend of classic soul and contemporary R&B to the stage.

Kruder & Dorfmeister brings the K&D Kicks 30 Anniversary Tour to Oakland's historic Fox Theater. An Another Planet Entertainment presale is offered online only and uses the password ace. A general on sale follows.

Karaoke Night at The New Parkway offers a relaxed evening of music and community. Take the mic or sing along from your seat, and enjoy a welcoming setting for every voice and comfort level. Come solo or with friends, choose a track when you arrive, or simply enjoy the performances. Song choices are pulled from YouTube, providing a wide range of options. There is no need to be perfect... heartfelt, playful, bold, or reserved performances are all encouraged, and first-timers are welcome. Food and beverages are available for purchase throughout the event, including beer, wine, and nonalcoholic choices. Arriving a little early can help with finding a seat and getting your song in before the list gets full. All are welcome as they are for a low pressure night of singing and cheering together.

Yoshi’s Oakland hosts a showcase built on the legacy of Detroit-born talent linked to Rick James’s punk funk era and Motown history. At the center is vocalist Val Young, who started out singing behind acts like The Gap Band, George Clinton and P-Funk, and Roy Ayers before Rick James elevated her at Motown with a glamorous "Black Marilyn Monroe" image. Her debut album Seduction became a gold seller with songs such as "Mind Games," "Piece Of My Heart," and "If You Should Ever Be Lonely," followed by Private Conversations on Amherst Records. Her credits span collaborations with artists including Mariah Carey and Tupac Shakur, notably the track "To Live & Die In L.A.," and sessions with members of Rufus. Sharing that lineage is Candice "Candi" Ghant, another Detroit native who signed to Motown at 19, moved to Hollywood, and was selected by Rick James as one of the Mary Jane Girls. Her studio and stage work ranges from background vocals for Ice Cube and other hip hop and R&B figures to soundtrack contributions and production projects that highlight her range behind the scenes. The story also connects to Farah Saraya Melanson, an L.A. artist who has performed with The Mary Jane Girls featuring Val Young, New Birth, and Jon B, and has recorded with Barry White. A multi-instrumentalist with formal music studies, she has collaborated with Val Young and Candi Ghant for several years. Together, these histories trace a path from Motor City roots to Hollywood studios, reflecting the voices and collaborators that shaped a distinctive chapter of funk, soul, and R&B.

Rain or shine, the DBFL monthly bag sale brings a wide selection of clothing, shoes, accessories, home goods, toys, sporting goods, books and more. Fill a paper grocery bag for $15 per bag, with no limit on how many you can purchase. Find budget-friendly treasures for the whole family while choosing secondhand. Cash and credit cards are accepted.

A custom 34-foot by 10-foot tiny house built for Velux debuts as the Mobile Skylight Experience at the ADU Festival. Alongside this showcase, the Bay Area ADU Expo gathers people and information, plus resources to support ADU plans, all in one place. Whether you are just starting to explore or preparing to build, you can compare options, ask questions, and move forward with confidence. Admission is free.

A chance for teens to gather and play a popular role playing game. Dice will be available, and new players can begin with ready to play characters. The game will be run by Dungeon Master Vic. Accessibility information is available. Actividad para adolescentes que quieran jugar un juego de rol popular. Habrá dados, y los jugadores nuevos podrán empezar con personajes listos. El juego estará a cargo de Dungeon Master Vic. Hay información de accesibilidad disponible.

The 7th Annual Black Podcasting Awards comes to Oakland, honoring independent Black podcasters who consistently release episodes and grow real audiences without major network or media support. After six seasons of recognition, the seventh season brings the ceremony to the West Coast for the first time. With Black-led shows accounting for fewer than one percent of podcasts worldwide, the evening centers on these creators and their achievements.

This free, drop-in gathering features Super Smash Bros. Melee and board games at The New Parkway. The format is casual and flexible, so participants can jump into a Melee match, choose a board game from the on-site collection, or bring a favorite to share. Come solo or with friends, stay for a quick round or spend the afternoon. Chef Tyler will be available to host board games, explain rules, and help get games started if you would like, and it is equally welcome to grab a table and play on your own. The atmosphere is welcoming and come-and-go friendly, with food and drinks available for purchase.

Nayab Midha takes the stage for a live evening of evocative poetry, gripping storytelling, and soulful performances. The program celebrates emotion, narrative, and creative expression, inviting audiences into a thoughtful, inspiring atmosphere. The event takes place at the Chabot College Performing Arts Complex.

This once-a-year flamenco night returns to The Dome for its fourth edition, showcasing Melissa Cruz in live performance with an ensemble of dancers and musicians. The program highlights Roberto Zamora on flamenco vocals, Brenna McDonald on flamenco guitar, Yeshe Wingerd on flamenco guitar and vocals, Jesse Torre on flamenco guitar, and Bob Sanders on electric bass, with Melissa Cruz leading in flamenco dance. Additional artists will be announced. Guests can settle in to enjoy the distinctive setting along with drinks and light snacks. A suggested donation of $25 per person is requested, and a separate reservation should be made for each attendee. Thanks to The Dome, performers receive 100 percent of donations.

LeeAnn Law & the Motherlode Band take the stage at The Ole Fillin Station in Meadow Vista, a 1940s-era service station reinvented as an old-school bar full of character. The venue opens only occasionally, creating a chance to experience a hidden foothills spot as it comes alive with high-energy country and country rock. Enjoy live music, a drink from the bar, and a reason to pull on your boots for a spirited night in a one-of-a-kind setting.

Conoce Tus Raíces honors the heritage of Hispanic and Latino communities in observance of Hispanic Heritage Month. With an emphasis on culture, history, and community, it highlights the long-standing roots and enduring contributions of Latino communities throughout Oakland and the wider region.

A community-driven stand up show that centers Black, Queer, and femme perspectives, with space for the occasional ally. Expect sharp, dynamic comedians from around the Bay Area and an emphasis on healing through shared laughter. Tickets are $12 online or $15 at the door. Open to all ages, though the material may not be suitable for children. Held at All Out Comedy Theater.

Enjoy a shoreline run presented by the Hayward Area Recreation and Park District, with distances for every level. Choose a one mile family fun run, a 5K at 3.1 miles, or a 10K at 6.2 miles. Each course starts and finishes at the Hayward Shoreline Interpretive Center, where open bay views and refreshing coastal air set the scene. All participants receive a commemorative T-shirt and medal, and taking part supports the center’s education and conservation programs. Strollers are welcome in the family fun run.

Metropolitan Horsemen's Association presents a 2026 Hunter and Jumper schooling show in its series at Joaquin Miller Park’s Sequoia Arena in Oakland. The event highlights a welcoming, supportive, and inclusive environment at an affordable rate.

Just Dance Ballroom hosts a weekly session of Standard and Smooth rounds every Sunday. The gathering centers on these ballroom styles.

Get help with basic computer tasks, with instruction provided in English only. Appointments can be made by phone, and walk-ins are accommodated after scheduled appointments on a first come, first served basis. Accessibility information is available.

At Spire, the Church, this all-levels yoga session pairs mindful movement with a moody goth soundtrack to create a space for both physical practice and inner reflection. A carefully selected playlist sets an evocative tone while participants move through accessible poses, building strength, flexibility, and calm. The gathering also centers community, welcoming those who share an interest in yoga and goth culture to connect in a supportive, inclusive environment. Sliding scale admission is $10 to $20, with $15 suggested, and no one is turned away for lack of funds. Donations are accepted at the door via Venmo, PayPal, or Zelle, and presales are available. Because the venue is in a residential neighborhood, respect for neighbors is essential. Parking nearby is limited, so consider biking, carpooling, walking with friends, rideshare, or public transit, and plan ahead. Disrespect toward neighbors can result in exclusion from this and future gatherings. Bring a yoga mat or borrow one on site, and wear comfortable clothing that allows easy movement.

A friendly brunch social centered on American Sign Language takes place at Prescott Market in West Oakland. Deaf hosts foster a voice off, sign on environment where Deaf and hard of hearing ASL users and hearing allies can connect and practice conversation. The gathering uses indoor seating within the food hall. Participants are encouraged to prepare with their ASL teacher beforehand. West Oakland BART is referenced for transit access.

Patrick Landeza & Sons weaves a multigenerational celebration of music, family, and aloha. Led by slack key guitarist Patrick Landeza, a two-time Nā Hōkū Hanohano Award recipient, the group features Justin Firmeza on Hawaiian steel guitar and keyboards with Danny Landeza on bass. Their sound honors Hawaiian roots while embracing fresh energy from a new generation. The performance blends skilled musicianship, warm storytelling, and light island humor as they share songs and memories that trace Patrick’s musical path. Spanning treasured Hawaiian standards and original pieces, the set shines a light on family, culture, and the lasting spirit of aloha.

Isaiah Collier appears at Yoshi’s Oakland with a forward-looking take on contemporary jazz that bridges heritage and the present moment. A South Side Chicago native, he is a composer, arranger, educator, and self-described sonic scientist whose work has earned international recognition. Honors include selection as a Steve Jobs Archive Fellow, being named Chicagoan of the Year in Jazz in 2024, a cover feature in DownBeat Magazine, and placement on The New York Times list of the year’s best jazz albums. His suite The Story of 400 Years was highlighted on NPR’s Jazz Night in America, and he has received a DownBeat Critics Poll award along with the Jazz Journalists Association’s Up and Coming Artist of the Year.