Featured Events in Berkeley in April, 2024 (August Updated)

Join the highly acclaimed Bestselling Author/Illustrator of the FRAZZLED series, Booki Vivat, as she unveils her latest graphic novel, Meet Me On Mercer Street, designed for readers aged 8-12. The event will take place at Mrs. Dalloway's Bookstore in Berkeley on April 2, 2024. Booki Vivat will be in conversation with Thien Pham, the talented author/illustrator of Family Style: Memories of an American from Vietnam. Meet Me On Mercer Street is a delightful blend of Harriet the Spy and Front Desk, following aspiring artist Kacie on a journey to uncover the mysteries of her changing neighborhood. With a keen eye for detail and a love for sketching, Kacie navigates through a series of unexpected events in this charming and insightful graphic novel. Booki Vivat, known for her bestselling Frazzled series, draws readers into a world filled with humor and depth. Thien Pham, a graphic novelist and educator based in Oakland, CA, adds his unique perspective to the event. This free event requires pre-registration and seats are limited, so early registration is recommended. The event begins promptly at 6:30 PM at Mrs. Dalloway's Bookstore. Attendees are kindly requested to arrive between 6:15 and 6:30 PM. Please note that non-support companion animals are not permitted, and restroom access is restricted after 6:30 PM.

Join renowned Berkeley author Sheryl Kaskwitz as she captivates audiences with a reading, discussion, and book signing of her highly-anticipated new release, A CHANCE TO HARMONIZE. Immerse yourself in the enchanting atmosphere of Mrs. Dalloway's Bookstore on Wednesday, April 3rd at 7:00 PM, as local author Sheryl Kaskowitz unveils her latest masterpiece, A Chance to Harmonize: How FDR's Hidden Music Unit Sought to Save America from the Great Depression--One Song at a Time. Be sure to stay for a personalized book signing session with the esteemed author. A Chance to Harmonize delves into the extraordinary tale of a covert New Deal initiative that aimed to transform America and eradicate the Great Depression through the power of folk music. This groundbreaking program laid the foundation for the folk revival and left an indelible mark on American culture. Preorder your copy of A Chance to Harmonize today to embark on a journey back to 1934, a time when the US economy was ravaged by the Great Depression, leaving its inhabitants destitute. First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt implored President Roosevelt to take decisive action to aid the most vulnerable members of society, including Appalachian miners, mill workers, displaced city dwellers, and struggling farmers. The government established cooperative living environments in rural areas across the nation, providing these individuals with a fresh start. To stimulate morale and foster community spirit, the administration enlisted artists to lead group activities, particularly folk music. Under the guidance of Charles Seeger, father of the legendary Pete Seeger, the music unit embarked on an expedition across the country, recording hundreds of folk songs. Notably, staffer Sidney Robertson traveled extensively to amass this invaluable collection. Accompanied by music leaders like Margaret Valiant, who were dispatched to the homesteads, these songs were utilized to cultivate a sense of unity and cooperation among the residents. Operating discreetly and purposefully beneath the radar, the music unit amassed over 800 songs and continued its mission for nearly two years. Unfortunately, due to opposition from a conservative congressional coalition that viewed the entire homestead initiative as dangerously "socialistic," the music unit was eventually shut down prematurely. Nevertheless, its legacy endured, demonstrating the potency of music in providing hope and a sense of belonging even in the darkest of times. Moreover, it paved the way for the folk revival that ensued, propelling the careers of influential artists such as Woody Guthrie, Pete Seeger, Odetta, and Bob Dylan. Distinguished author and Harvard-trained American music scholar Sheryl Kaskowitz has been granted exclusive access to the music unit's comprehensive collection of recordings and a treasure trove of archival materials, some of which have never before been made available to the public. A Chance To Harmonize unveils this untold chapter in American cultural history, captivating readers with its revelatory content. Sheryl Kaskowitz, PhD, is the acclaimed author of God Bless America: The Surprising History of an Iconic Song, which earned her an ASCAP Deems Taylor Book Award for music writing. Her articles have graced esteemed publications including the New York Times, Slate, and Bloomberg News. Kaskowitz, who completed her PhD in music with a focus on ethnomusicology at Harvard in 2011, also holds a BA in music from Oberlin. She has previously served as a lecturer at Brandeis University and Brown University, and currently resides with her family in Berkeley, California. This event is open to the public, with pre-registration kindly requested before 5:30 PM on April 3rd. As seating is limited, early registration is strongly encouraged to secure your place. Walk-ins will be accommodated if space permits. Attendees are kindly requested to arrive between 6:45 and 7:00 PM for the event. Please note that non-support companion animals are not permitted, and restroom access may be limited after 6:30 PM. Mark your calendars for this extraordinary opportunity to delve into the hidden recesses of American history with Sheryl Kaskowitz and her enlightening new publication, A Chance to Harmonize.

Witness the grand debut of Toria's Closet at its first-ever fashion showing in Berkeley. Step into a world of exquisite style and sophistication as we unveil our exclusive collection of unique designs and costume sets. Immerse yourself in an evening filled with live music by a talented DJ and refreshing drinks. Our team is excited to share this special moment with all attendees. Join us at 2727 California Street, Berkeley, CA, USA, on April 4, 2024, to experience this one-of-a-kind event. Tickets are priced at $15 for entry to this premier fashion showcase. Don't miss this extraordinary opportunity to explore Toria's Closet and be part of a memorable evening. Mark your calendars and be part of the experience at the first fashion showing of Toria's closet.

Join the UC Men's Octet's 76th Anniversary Reunion at the Cal Alumni House in Berkeley, CA, USA. This highly-anticipated event will take place on Saturday, April 6th, from 1-5pm. Celebrate the Octet's rich history with a delightful afternoon of food, drink, and of course, singing. The festivities will begin with a mouthwatering spread of food and drink, followed by a captivating Parade of Octets. Throughout the event, you can expect impromptu singing sessions that will surely fill the air with melodious harmony. After the reunion concludes, don't miss the opportunity to continue the festivities at Stephen's Hall, where more singing will take place in the archway. This reunion is open to friends and family members, and we are excited to announce that all kids under 18 can attend for FREE. Mark your calendars and make sure to attend the Octet's Spring Show the night before, on Friday, April 5th. Stay tuned for more details and join us in celebrating the UC Men's Octet's 76th anniversary at this memorable event.

The Adult Learn-to-Ride Class in Berkeley is designed for adults or teens who are looking to either learn how to ride a bike for the first time or refresh their skills. The class covers the fundamentals of balancing, pedaling, and steering, all in a supportive and non-judgmental environment. Participants are required to bring a working bicycle, but rental options are available for $30 if needed. It is recommended to bring your own equipment if possible. Reservations are necessary for rentals. The class offers a low student-to-teacher ratio to ensure individualized attention. If the class is full, interested individuals can join the waitlist or stay informed about future sessions. This program is presented in collaboration with UC Berkeley Planning & Transportation, with funding support from the Alameda County Transportation Commission. The Adult Learn-to-Ride Class will take place at the Bancroft Parking Structure on April 6, 2024. Ticket prices range from $0 to $30.

Award-winning journalist and Democracy Now! host, Amy Goodman, will grace Berkeley with her presence on April 6, 2024, to pay tribute to KPFA’s 75 years of fostering community trust. With a longstanding and cherished association with KPFA, Amy will share her unique insights on the station's 75-year journey. Secure your tickets early to show your support for the Bay Area's truly independent media outlet. The event will commence at 6:30pm at the First Church of Christ Scientist in Berkeley. VIP meet and greet tickets are also available as a special premium on kpfa.org/donate. For any inquiries or media requests, contact Quincy McCoy at 75@kpfa.org. Don't miss this exclusive opportunity to celebrate KPFA's 75th Anniversary with the esteemed Amy Goodman. Mark your calendars for an evening filled with reflection, community, and appreciation for KPFA's remarkable legacy. Ticket prices range from $25 to $75.

Experience the excitement of collegiate women's tennis at the MTA Watch Party as the Cal Women's Tennis team takes on Pepperdine at the prestigious Hellman Tennis Complex on the Cal campus in Berkeley. This free event is set to take place on Saturday, April 6, 2024, with matches starting at 12 pm and estimated to conclude around 3 pm. The venue, located at Frank Schlessinger Way at Oxford Street in Berkeley, promises a thrilling afternoon of competitive tennis. For convenient access, it's recommended to utilize public transportation, with the Downtown Berkeley BART station just a short 6-minute walk away from the tennis complex. If driving is preferred, kindly adhere to parking restrictions to avoid costly fines. As the event approaches, a designated meeting spot will be identified outside the complex, or simply look for the group in the stands - a contact number will be provided for any queries. Friends and family are welcome to join for an inspiring and enjoyable day of women's tennis. For any inquiries, feel free to reach out to Kenny Goodman at kennygoodman@montclairtennis.org.

Experience an exclusive donor walkthrough at the Berkeley Art Center's latest exhibition, "In the Presence of: Collective Histories of the Asian American Women Artists Association." This curated tour led by Christina Hiromi Hobbs offers a unique insight into the carefully selected artworks and artists featured in this showcase. Delve deeper into the legacy and sense of community fostered by AAWAA with this intimate event. Limited spots are available for this special occasion, so secure your attendance now to ensure you don't miss out on this opportunity. The event, "Exclusive Donor Walkthrough: 'In the Presence of...,'" will take place on April 6, 2024, at 1275 Walnut Street, Berkeley, CA 94709. Admission is free for all attendees.

Discover the secrets to mastering self-tape auditions like a professional at the upcoming workshop, "Mastering the Self Tape Audition - A Complete Technical Guide for Actors." Taking place at the prestigious Berkeley Rep School of Theatre in Berkeley, this intensive event on April 7, 2024, focuses on equipping actors with the technical skills necessary to excel in the digital age. Participants will delve into the intricate details of lighting, sound, framing, backdrops, and more, guided by industry experts. This hands-on experience will enable attendees to perfect their self-tape setup and leave a lasting impression on casting directors with polished auditions. Unlike traditional acting classes, this workshop solely concentrates on the tools and technology essential for self-taping, eliminating any confusion and providing a reliable process for consistent, high-quality results every time. From mastering lighting techniques and capturing pristine audio to choosing the right backdrop and setting up the camera effectively, participants will gain invaluable knowledge to elevate their audition game and secure lucrative acting opportunities. With a ticket price of $125, this workshop offers a rare opportunity to refine your self-taping skills and advance your acting career.

Experience an enlightening evening at the Fotovision Lecture featuring renowned photographer James Nachtwey. Delve into his captivating narratives and gain valuable insights into his illustrious career. The event will be held at the Brower Center in Berkeley on April 9, 2024. Doors will open at 6:30 pm, followed by a compelling lecture and conversation with James Nachtwey at 7:00 pm. Nachtwey, an esteemed American photojournalist and war photographer, has extensively covered armed conflicts and social issues across various regions including South Africa, Latin America, the Middle East, and Europe. His powerful images have been featured in The New York Times Sunday Magazine, showcasing his exceptional talent and dedication to his craft. Nachtwey's remarkable achievements include numerous prestigious awards such as the Robert Capa Gold Medal, World Press Photo award, and the Leica Award. Don't miss this exclusive opportunity to witness the work of a true visionary in the world of photography. Admission to this event is free of charge.

Get ready to dive into the world of storytelling and improvisation at Corey Rosen Leads A Dynamic Storytelling And Improvisation Workshop in Berkeley. This unique arts event will take place at Mrs Dalloway's on April 10, 2024. Corey Rosen, a master in the art of storytelling, will guide participants through an enriching experience filled with creativity and spontaneity. The workshop promises to be a one-of-a-kind opportunity to sharpen your storytelling skills and explore the magic of improvisation in a supportive environment. Located at 2904 College Avenue, Berkeley, CA 94705, Mrs Dalloway's provides the perfect setting for this inspiring event. Tickets are priced at $16.95, offering exceptional value for an unforgettable experience. Don't miss out on this chance to learn from a seasoned professional and connect with fellow storytelling enthusiasts. Reserve your spot today and get ready to unleash your creativity at Corey Rosen Leads A Dynamic Storytelling And Improvisation Workshop.

The Oakland Art Library is excited to announce its return with the First Party of 2024! Artists, weirdos, and friends are cordially invited to come together at Lumen Labs in Berkeley on April 11, 2024. This event will be a vibrant gathering where attendees can immerse themselves in art, music, and creativity. The library is evolving with a new approach - art pieces will be available for purchase instead of borrowing, ensuring support for the talented artists involved. Attendees are encouraged to bring any borrowed art to the party for spring inventory. Those looking to keep their favorite pieces can reach out via email. Donations are also welcome to help sustain the arts community in the Bay Area. The library extends its gratitude to Lumen Labs for hosting, Airpusher Collective for providing music, and other supporters for their contributions. Artists interested in showcasing their work or volunteering can connect with the organizers at the event. For inquiries or to get involved, please contact oakartlibrary@gmail.com. Let's keep the spirit of art alive in the Bay Area!

Experience a day filled with soul-stirring music, spoken word, instrumentals, uplifting praise dance, and clean comedy at the East Bay Gospel Festival 2024 in Berkeley. Taking place at the prestigious Black Repertory Group located at 3201 Adeline Street, Berkeley, CA, USA, this event on April 13, 2024, promises a powerful and uplifting celebration of faith and talent. Delight in a variety of performances, including song, praise dance, spoken word, comedy, and music, designed to inspire and entertain attendees. Don't miss this opportunity to come together and immerse yourself in a day of inspiring artistry. Secure your ticket for only $20 and prepare to be uplifted at the East Bay Gospel Festival 2024.

Experience a weekend of immersive bellydance fusion with Zoe, featuring 6 hours of intensive training in isolation technique, fluidity, and dynamics. This workshop covers a range of movements such as undulations, arms, locks, and pops, with a focus on technique and strength training. Suitable for all levels, participants can expect a fast-paced class with plenty of drills and fun combos. Bring along a yoga mat and 1 or 2 yoga blocks for added support. The fully hybrid workshop allows you to join online via Zoom or in-person at the studio in Berkeley, limited to 20 students. Dates are set for April 13th to April 14th, from 12:00 PM to 3:30 PM PST, with a half-hour break included. The in-person sessions will be held at 1741 Alcatraz Avenue, Berkeley, CA, 94703. Don't miss out on this opportunity for a comprehensive bellydance experience. Ticket prices range from $90 to $175 for this Beginner Bellydance Fusion weekend.

Witness the inaugural "Order on the Court" basketball match between Stanford Law School (SLS) and Berkeley School of Law at Berkeley High School gymnasium on Sunday, April 14, 2024, at 3:00 pm. Led by Coaches David Engstrom, Jeff Fisher, and Sydney Jordan, SLS' top players will face off against the Golden Bears in a rivalry that promises to be legendary. Secure your spot on the buses departing from Munger at 1 PM for just $10, ensuring you don't miss a moment of the action. While admission is free, a suggested $20 donation will support the Stanford Public Interest Law Foundation, aiding graduating public interest students and pro bono projects on and off campus. This event replaces the SPILF Auction this year, offering a unique opportunity to contribute to a worthy cause while enjoying an unforgettable basketball showdown. Show your support for SLS and be part of history in the making as we aim for victory in Berkeley on April 14.

Join East Bay Booksellers in Berkeley for the exclusive book launch event of "Chipped" by José Vadi at the Gilman Brewing Company. Celebrate the release of Vadi's memoir with an evening of readings and discussions featuring special guests Cole Nowicki and Nina Renata Aron. Discover the essence of skateboarding culture and its profound impact on art and society through Vadi's unique perspective in "Chipped: Writing from a Skateboarder's Lens" published by Soft Skull Press. Delve into essays that explore themes of dedication, empathy, and the transformative power of skateboarding in one's life. Learn about the influence of iconic figures like jazz composer Sun Ra and skateboard artist Ed Templeton on the skateboarding community. Don't miss this genre-defying meditation on resilience and passion in the face of life's challenges. The event will take place on April 15, 2024, at Gilman Brewing Company, 912 Gilman Street, Berkeley, CA 94710. Admission is free, so mark your calendars for an unforgettable literary experience.

Join Lissa Soep, senior editor for audio at Vox Media, at Mrs. Dalloway's Bookstore in Berkeley on April 17th. She will be presenting her latest work, "Other People's Words," a poignant exploration of grief and friendship. The book delves into the lasting impact of loss through the voices of loved ones who have passed away. Drawing on the philosophy of Mikhail Bakhtin, Lissa reveals how language becomes a vessel for memories, allowing conversations to endure beyond death. Through encounters with familiar phrases and recollections, she shows how dialogue transcends time and space. This intimate reflection on the power of language to heal amidst sorrow resonates deeply. The event is free, but registration is required by 5:30 pm on April 17th due to limited seating. Arrive between 6:45 and 7:00 PM to ensure your spot. Please note that companion animals are not permitted, and restroom access is limited after 6:30 PM. Don't miss this opportunity to engage with Lissa Soep and her transformative exploration of loss and connection.

Experience the thrill of Cal Game Day 2024 as the Cal Bears face off against Oregon State at Evans Diamond in Berkeley on April 19th. Children are invited to participate in the Anthem Buddies activity before kickoff, so be sure to arrive early! Enjoy pre-game snacks, games, and entertainment. Ticket distribution will take place in front of the stadium between 5:30 pm and 6:30 pm for the 6:05 pm game. Remember to collect your tickets from our dedicated volunteers. Please adhere to the venue regulations, including the prohibition of metal water bottles. Your support is greatly appreciated. Let's cheer on Oakland together at this exciting event. Get ready for an unforgettable night of baseball as the Cal Bears aim for victory.

Join the community in Berkeley at Drop 84 on April 20th, 2024, for the UP IN SMOKE (4/20 All Day Event). Beginning at noon and running until 6 pm, the event kicks off with a lively Day Market featuring local Bay Area vendors offering a variety of goods. Indulge in delicious cuisine while being entertained throughout the day. At 2:30 pm, immerse yourself in laughter with a lineup of comedians at the Stoned Comedy Show. From 4:20 pm to 6 pm, Oasis Pro Wrestling takes the stage with an action-packed showcase of athleticism and excitement. Later in the evening, from 9 pm to 1 am, Finaumenal Brand presents Island Vibes (4/20 Reggae Night) with DJ KB spinning tunes and a performance by Highguylai. Doors open at 8:30 pm for the event starting at 9 pm. Tickets for this exceptional event range from $10 to $40. For further details, reach out to Finaumenal Brand via email.

Mark your calendars for the Berkeley Chinese Music Ensemble Spring Concert, set to take place at the renowned Hertz Hall in Berkeley on April 21, 2024. Immerse yourself in an evening of exquisite melodies and cultural richness as this talented ensemble showcases traditional Chinese music in a modern setting. The event is open to all, with tickets available for free to ensure that everyone has the opportunity to enjoy the beauty of this musical performance. Located at Hertz Hall, Berkeley, CA 94720, this enchanting concert promises to be a highlight of the spring season. Don't miss this unique opportunity to experience the magic of the Berkeley Chinese Music Ensemble Spring Concert as they captivate audiences with their exceptional talent and passion for the art of Chinese music.

Explore various facets of physical preparedness and foundational movement-skill development at the Zero Forms and Movement Situations event with M JMK. This all-levels class aims to establish readiness for disciplines like dance, contemplative arts, sports, and martial arts, as well as everyday life activities. Grounded in Jozef Frucek and Linda Kapetanea's movement pedagogy, participants will also draw on methods from Hatha yoga, strength and conditioning, contact dance, and more. The focus is on body awareness, vitalization, and athletic potentiation, with an emphasis on self-correction, injury prevention, and cognitive flexibility. The class involves various exercises, joint articulations, coordination patterns, partner games, and improvisational scores to enhance spontaneity and re-patterning. Gain practical knowledge of concepts like weight shifting, elasticity, and more, suitable for all skill levels. Facilitated by movement teacher and coach Michael JMK, who brings over 10 years of experience in strength and conditioning. Join with curiosity at The Berkeley Alembic on April 22, for an immersive training experience. Ticket prices range from $15 to $25.

Attend the enlightening discussion and book signing event with Nina Guilbeault at Books Inc. Berkeley. On April 23, 2024, join Nina Guilbeault, a Harvard-trained sociologist, as she presents her latest work, "The Good Eater." Delve into the fascinating world of veganism and its impact on our food choices and the planet. Explore the historical, ethical, health, environmental, and social justice implications of adopting a plant-based diet through Guilbeault's insightful research and interviews. Discover the profound implications of our food choices on both personal and planetary well-being. This event at Books Inc. Berkeley offers a unique opportunity to engage with Nina Guilbeault in a vibrant setting surrounded by fellow book enthusiasts. Don't miss this chance to gain valuable insights into ethical eating practices and sustainable food systems. Admission is free, so mark your calendars for this thought-provoking event with Nina Guilbeault at Books Inc. Berkeley.

Experience healing and integration through creative expression at the event "Alligator Lizards in the Air: Integration Through Creative Expression." This monthly gathering offers a unique opportunity to translate visions and experiences from altered states of consciousness into two-dimensional art. Led by visionary artist Krisztina Lazar at The Berkeley Alembic in Berkeley, California, participants will explore various art mediums such as paint, colored pencils, and crayons to bring their internal landscapes to life on paper and canvas. No prior art experience is necessary; just come with an open mind and a willingness to explore. Krisztina Lazar, known for her expertise in oil paint, watercolor, and drawing, will guide attendees in creating opalescent artworks using a blend of Mische Technique and Alla Prima. Her work, inspired by themes of Pop Shamanism and sacred art, has been showcased in exhibitions worldwide. Don't miss this chance to delve into the realm of creativity on April 27, 2024, with tickets priced at $15 to $20.

Rebecca Kormos' INTERTWINED In-Store Reading, Discussion, And Signing is set to take place at Mrs Dalloway's in Berkeley on April 30, 2024. This event promises an engaging exploration of Kormos' work, offering attendees the opportunity to delve into the intricacies of her writing through a reading, followed by a thought-provoking discussion. The author will also be available for a signing session, adding a personal touch to the experience. Best of all, admission to this event is completely free, making it accessible to all who wish to attend. Located at 2904 College Avenue in Berkeley, CA 94705, Mrs Dalloway's provides the perfect backdrop for an intimate and inspiring evening of literary discovery. Don't miss this chance to immerse yourself in the world of Rebecca Kormos and connect with fellow literature enthusiasts. Mark your calendars and prepare to be captivated by the magic of words at Rebecca Kormos' INTERTWINED In-Store Reading, Discussion, And Signing.