All of the edginess of a big city such as New York coupled with its own dynamic and artsy presence, Oakland
CA is a
hidden gem waiting to be explored. Often referred to as “The Town” by Bay Area
natives, the city is a
melting pot of
eclectic cultures. Situated right in the heart of the bay directly across the bridge from San Francisco, it
is also the home of "Hyphy".
A dance/music movement popular in the early 2000's, perpetuated by music from local artists such as E40, Mac
Dre and Kead Da Sneak.
Oakland has consistently ranked as one of the most ethnically diverse major cities in the country. This fact
makes
visiting such a warm and welcoming experience.
Notable talent native to the city includes the likes of Damien
Llliard (NBA), Keyshia Cole (singer), Ryan Coogler
(director, Black
Panther), Zendaya (Emmy Award winning actress) and current
Vice
President of the United States Kamala Harris among many others.
Whether the allure comes from the mild enjoyable weather year round, the many festivals and concerts
centered around
strong community or the desire to sample one of many delicious local diners in the city;
experience Oakland today!
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The History
Oakland boasts a rich history filled with notable figures. Two of the most well-known figures are the founders of the Black Panther Party, Huey Newton and Bobby Seale. Founded at Merritt College, the group emphasized Black nationalism amidst heightened racial tension in the 1960’s as well as started many social programs to help the less fortunate members of the communities. Also apart of Oakland’s history is its brush with the aviation field. Aviation Pioneer Amelia Earhart set a flying record in the city, being the first person to fly solo from Honolulu HI to Oakland CA in January 1935. Later the city served as the starting point of her ill-fated attempt to circumnavigate the globe before her disappearance in July 1937. Learn More →
The Culture
Oakland has a vibrant art scene and claims the highest concentration of artists per capita in the United States. The growth of the monthly First Friday’s event, occurring in the Uptown neighborhood and helped to bring about a strong sense of community between artists and patrons. The city is a renowned culinary hotbed, offering both a wide variety and innovative approaches to diverse cuisines in restaurants and markets, featuring international styles such as French, Italian, Ethiopian, Asian, Latin American, as well as Caribbean, Southern United States/Louisiana Creole, etc., all of which reflects the culinary traditions of the city's ethnically diverse population. Learn More →