Swing, Fashion & Haunted Houses 4/15

We're only 3 away from the 100 post mark. I'm looking at my calendar and it's almost hard to believe all the events I've found and posted in the last 3 1/2 months. So far this blog isn't exactly where I want it to be, but it's a start. There will be changes for the better coming soon, but you have to start somewhere. I think for once I'm actually going to enjoy my weekend. After such a tiresome week, I know I'm not the only one that deserves it.

FRIDAY

Disaster Preparedness Fair
Union Square
Powell St. &  Geary, San Francisco
11am - 12pm

We haven't had a major earthquake since '89, and with all the craziness happening in Japan, there's a good chance we could be next. So to prepare for that next big earthquake, the Red Cross is throwing a public rally in Union Square. Play some games, get free first-aid training, and win a disaster preparedness kits. Lots of things to do all to help you gear up for that day. Better safe than sorry.


Spring Swing Concert
Oakland City Center
1414 Clay St., Oakland
12pm - 1pm

Big band music is the best. I wish I could have been born during that time, but I'll have to settle for listening to mp3 and watching old movies. The Oakland city center is having a spring swing concert today at noon featuring Larent Fourgo and His Ensemble. Stop by for some old fashioned sounds for this free concert.


F3 Fashion & Art Show
Cotton Mill Studios
1091 Calcot Place, Oakland
6pm - 10pm

This is one of the ultimate in art shows, and it's free! Cotton Mill Studios presents art in all forms. You'll see work from numerous designers and craftsmen. Enjoy lots of food and music while you relish over paintings & photos. Catch the bart because parking is limited, and you'll have access to a free F3 shuttle to the event. Though everything is free, they are accepting donations. Gas isn't cheap!


Haunted Houses @ Books Inc.
Books Inc.
1344 Park St., Alameda
7pm - 8pm

If you're one of those people who believe in the great beyond, here's something you might be interested in. Bay Area Haunted House Hunter Jeff Dwyer will be at Books Inc tonight in Alameda. He is an experienced "paranormal investigator" who will mingling with the public and available for questioning. So if your house has one too many bumps in the night, let him know. He may be able to help.

Art, Movies & Party 4/14

And the week goes on. Yesterday's weather was surprising but hopefully it didn't ruin anything.  Today's a new day full of art, movies and a launch party. It may only be Thursday, but that shouldn't stop you from partying like it's Friday.

Divisadero Artwalk
Haight to Geary St. on Divisadero, San Francisco
5pm - 10pm

The blue moon has risen, and the art walk has arrived. Take a stroll down Divisadeo to see what the Bay has to offer. Check out the blogsite for addresses to the individual shows from participating merchants. This seems like it will be a laid back event that will go well as long as the weather holds up.

Blast Colt45 Launch Party
111 Minna
111 Minna St., San Francisco
6pm - 10pm

There isn't anyone I know that will turn down a free party. Tonight's launch party at 111 Minna is

featuring Trackademics and the Honor Roll Crew, Mr Meyerz, DJ Design and co-hosted by Uptown Almanac. Lots to look forward to so stop by by between 6 and 9pm for a drink and a dance.

Free Movies at WestWind Drivein
Solano 2 Drive In & Public Market
1611 Solano Way, Concord
8pm - 11:30pm

If you haven' t had the drive-in movie experience, here's your chance. Tonight's double feature is free and has something both for the kiddies and the adults. Personally I enjoyed both movies so it was a win-win. Gates open at 6pm and the first films starts at dusk. See "Just Go With It" featuring Jennifer Aniston and Adam Sandler, and later "Tangled" the Disney interpretation of the fairy tale Rapunzel.

Green, Movies & Beatbox 4/13

The sunny weather has been good to us for over a week now, but rain is expected later on tonight. No worries though. If all the clouds stay where they are, it won't affect today's events. Tree huggers can unite today at the Earth Expo, Movie lovers have a great double feature to enjoy, and the artists can enjoy beatboxing & poetry.


Oakland Earth Expo 2011
Frank H. Ogawa Plaza
14th St. & Broadway, Oakland
10am - 2pm

Earth Day is right around the corner so the Oakland Earth Expo is right on time. Learn about gardening and growing your own organic foods. Visit booths on how to turn your home green. Take tours on energy and recycling and more. There will be plenty to do, see and learn, and everything is Green! Watch their video here.




Free Movies: Scott Pilgrim & Kick-Ass
The Variety Preview Room Theatre
582 Market St., San Francisco
6:30pm - 10pm

You can't hate cheap movies. Tonight's double feature at the Variety Preview Room Theatre includes the movies "Scott Pilgrim vs. The World" and "Kick-Ass." I've seen both and they are hilarious. Doors open at 6pm and there's free popcorn. For more info on the movies, check out the website.


How to Be a Human Beatbox - Session
Bazaar Cafe
5927 California St., San Francisco
7pm - 9pm

When I ran across this event it reminded me of a video I'd seen a long time ago on Youtube of a female beatboxer in Canada. I've always thought this was a skill you were born with so it will be interesting to see what exactly will be taught at tonight's session. If you're an aspiring beatboxer or just want to know what's going on, check it out.


Poetry Night at the Air Lounge
Air Lounge
492 9th St., Oakland
8pm - 10pm

The Air Lounge is no joke when it comes to poetry night. If you're early enough, cover is only $5. The atmosphere is very relaxed, and there's a good amount of seating. What I like most is that they have a sign-up sheet that allows anyone to speak without being judged, compared to the Berkeley Slam which is actually a competition. You'll definitely find some new favorite poets here so stop by in your dressed-to-impress attire. 

Comedy, Open Mic & Ice Cream 4/12

It's Tuesday.


Ben & Jerry's Free Cone Day
Nationwide
11am - 9pm

It doesn't happen often, but when it does you'll want to be there. Ben & Jerry's is giving out free ice cream. With the weather almost perfect, free ice cream just makes it that much better. Check out the stores in San Francisco, Oakland and Berkeley for your free scoop.


Open Mic @ The Starry Plough
3101 Shattuck Ave
Berkeley, CA 94705
8pm - 10pm

It's Tuesday night and that means doors are open for the mic. Tonight is open mic night and there's no cover! Bring your rants and your raves, let out your stress and your creativity on the mic. There's no cover and the sign up sheet will be posted at 7:30pm.


Improv Comedy Show
Saturn Cafe Space Lounge
2175 Allston Way, Berkeley
8pm - 10pm


The best kind of comedy is the kind that's not rehearsed. The spontaneous, random jokes that catch you off guard. Go out to the Saturn Cafe for a great night of scenes, games and songs. Don't get shy because audience participation is what fuels the jokes. Cafe is open until midnight so you won't go hungry. Get there early for a seat.

Singles, Meditation, & Hoops 4/11

The weather was pretty perfect this past weekend and it looks like today will be just as great.


Free Meditation Classes
Center for Healing & Expression
1749 Ofarrell St., San Francisco
7pm - 8:30pm

"These Meditation and Mindfulness classes are intended for people who are living and working in today's active and chaotic world.

What to expect: The class will consist of either a brief explanation of meditation, the review and practice of a specific technique and an overview of mindfulness or a brief overview of the meditation technique and a more in-depth conversation about mindfulness, mysticism or other topics people are interested in discussing.  

Chairs will be provided.  Please dress comfortably."


Sip-n-Search Singles Event
Parea Wine Bar and Cafe
795 Valencia St., San Francisco
7:30pm - 11pm

Here's another mixer for the Singles. Tickets are available online for $10 and they allow you to bring a "wingman" for free, which make the event that much more fun. This is a great way to meet people so if you're looking for some good conversation this is one event you may want to attend. This is for the 21+ crowd.


Monday Night Hoop Jam
Studio 12
2525 8th St., Berkeley
8pm - 10pm

I love re-visiting my childhood and what better way than with an old playground pastime. Studio 12 hosts their hula hoop night every Monday for only a donation of $5 to $10. Re-live those elementary glory days and start swinging those hips. This event is for the young and old, beginners and experienced. You'll be surprised at how much fun swinging a hoop can be.

Green, Fashion, & Blossoms 4/10

I'm definitely getting a late start today, but no worries. Festivals are going on all day today.


SUNDAY

Indie Fashion Show
Metreon Shopping Center
101 4th St., San Francisco
11am - 6pm

• Shop from trendsetting designers of men’s and women’s clothing, accessories, shoes, jewelry, and browse art from local top artists.
• Visit a DIY (Do it yourself) booth featuring live crafting on site.
• Male guests will be able to “Bro down with us” in the new THREAD Man-cave featuring some mantastic fun.
• Designer and sponsor giveaways from a DJ booth.
• Signature cocktails and food from various vendors will be available for purchase
• Some non-alcoholic beverages and a small snack selection is provided free of charge.
• A local nail salon will also be offering free manicure or pedicure samples.
• A Style Lounge will be available for make-up touch ups and styling tips from Nikol Elaine Make-up Artistry and Ginger Rubio Salon

SF Green Festival
Concourse Exhibition Center
635 8th St., San Francisco
11am - 5pm

"This weekend, grab your friends, family and co-workers and head on down to the San Francisco Green Festival to celebrate solutions that help make healthier lives—socially, economically and environmentally! There are several ways to get FREE ADMISSION this weekend! Bring 4 cans of food for the SF Foodbank; shop at Rainbow Grocery and bring us your receipt; or visit your local Ford dealership to gain free admission. You can also still engage with local nonprofits to "Pay it Forward, Get it Back" and receive free tickets. Plus, Green America and Global Exchange members always get in free. For more information, visit the SF Admissions Page."

Cherry Blossom Festival
Japantown
1759 Sutter St., San Francisco
12pm - 6pm

"The 2011 Northern California Cherry Blossom Festival now celebrating its 44th year, is one of California's most prominent celebrations of Asian traditions. Each year, over 200,000 people attend this dazzling display showcasing the color and grace of the Japanese culture and the diversity of the Japanese American Community. Please join us and become a sponsor of this popular Japanese American community event."

Festivals, Books & Blossoms 4/9

SATURDAY

Cesar Chavez Festival
Dolores Park
566 Dolores St., San Francisco
10am - 6pm

It's time to celebrate the life of Cesar Chavez. Parade starts at 11am and leads into a street fair. Music, entertainment, arts & crafts and a classic car show all for your enjoyment. Some of the live artists include the Cuban Cowboys, En Vivo & Dr. Loco's Rockin' Jalapeno Band. If your Saturday is free then fill it up with these festivities.


16th Annual Anarchist Book Fair
County Fair Building
Golden Gate Park
9th Ave & Lincoln, San Francisco
10am - 6pm

This fair is perfect for the avid reader, put on by the Anarchist Bookstore itself. There's a list of speakers including Jim Miller, Sasha Liley and Allan Ruff among many others. There will also be panels discussing various topics like crime and politics. Expect to see lots of booths, buy a few books, and also take home some free material.


Cherry Blossom Festival
Japantown
1759 Sutter St., San Francisco
12pm  - 6pm

I'm always looking forward to the Cherry Blossom Festival. There will definitely be lots to see culturally and buy. Not only is it this weekend, it's ongoing until April 8 so you have time to get to it. Another great thing about the festival is that if you're not of Japanese decent, you will experience a culture shock. Get out and enjoy.