A movie, volunteer opportunity, inaugural Ocean Hoptimism session, and two tours
Kids are out for the summer, the days are warming up, and Alameda’s unique charm is on full display in this week’s curation of local events. On Thursday, June 26, head over to Faction Brewing for their first-ever Ocean Hoptimism lecture. Then get ready for the latest Starlight Movie in the Parks with a screening of Despicable Me 4 on Friday, June 27, at Alameda Point Multi-Purpose Field.
On Saturday, June 28, check out three signature local events. In the morning, take a stroll around Bay Farm Island with Alameda Walks. Head over to Bay Area Makerfarm to get your hands dirty and your heart filled at the Summer Solstice Celebration and Volunteer Day. And for more local history, swing by the beautiful Meyers House and Garden for a tour—remember, they’re only open one day a month!
Ocean Hoptimism
Thursday, June 26
An exciting new event is coming to Faction Brewing, 2501 Monarch Street, on Thursday, June 26. Join fellow nature-lovers and beer enthusiasts at Ocean Hoptimism’s inaugural session from 7 until 8 p.m. Attendees can enjoy a pint, a speaker, and a hopeful look towards the future of our planet.
Ocean Hoptimism aims to be a “vibrant monthly gathering where ocean conservation, science, exploration, culture, recreation, and policy collide—alongside a shared love for local craft beer.” Each month, a new ocean expert will share their knowledge and perspectives on the world around us. Despite some modern day sentiments of environmental doom and gloom, Ocean Hoptimism wields “an attitude that highlights solutions, celebrates progress, and fuels action.”
Dr. Rachel Carlson, an interdisciplinary coastal ecologist and Director of Berkeley’s Center for Ocean Futures, will kick off the gathering. In her work, Dr. Carlson seeks strategies for coastal resilience despite a changing climate. “Her inspiring message will remind us that optimism isn’t just a feeling — it’s the fuel we need for action,” the lecture description promises.
Ocean Hoptimism will meet on every fourth Thursday of the month at Faction Brewing. Entry to the event is free, and attendees are invited to grab a drink at Faction and check out the rotation of local food trucks parked outside. On Thursday, June 26, Mario’s Food Truck will be serving up pizza nachos, wings, tacos, and more.
Starlight Movies in the Parks – Despicable Me 4
Friday, June 27
It must be summer! Starlight Movies in the Parks is bringing family-friendly movies to the Alameda Point Multi-Purpose Field, 1101 West Redline Avenue. Join Alameda Recreation and Park Department (ARPD) for their second screening of the season with Despicable Me 4 on Friday, June 27.
This free, fun-filled event will start at 6:30 p.m. with pre-show festivities, including games and crafts for kids. Throughout the summer, the movies will start between 8:15 and 8:45 p.m., depending on darkness. Snacks and food will be available for purchase—proceeds support the Alameda Youth Committee and Teen Programs.
Please bring your lawn chairs and blankets. Pre-registration is not necessary. Kindly leave all barbecue grills, alcoholic beverages, and pets at home.
Alameda Walks
Saturday, June 28
Alameda Walks is back with a look at Bay Farm Island on Saturday, June 28. Meet at Godfrey Park, 281 Beach Road, for the 9 a.m. start. This week’s walk will last approximately one hour and 15 minutes.
Join award-winning historian Dennis Evanosky for a trip back in time on Bay Farm. The Ohlone knew the land as “Wind Whistle Island,” while early European settlers who stole the land referred to it as “The Uplands.” Over the years, Bay Farm would become a complex ecosystem of oyster farming, oyster pirates, and oyster patrols. Famously, author Jack London once washed ashore on the island while working as a patrolman. Over time, the land would evolve into the residential sprawl we see today.
Alameda Walks are sponsored by ARPD. All events begin at 9 a.m. and last approximately an hour unless otherwise noted. Attendees are encouraged to wear comfortable walking shoes, use sun protection, and bring water to stay hydrated. Registration is not required for this free event. Kindly leave pets at home.
Bay Area Makerfarm Summer Solstice Celebration and Volunteer Day
Saturday, June 28
Join Bay Area Makerfarm, 2676 Barbers Point Road, for a full day of volunteering, food, music, and great community vibes on Saturday, June 28. The Summer Solstice Celebration and Volunteer Day will begin at 10 a.m.
The schedule for the day is as follows:
- 10 a.m.: Coffee is served.
- 10 a.m. – 1 p.m.: Volunteer tasks.
- 1 – 2:30 p.m.: Potluck lunch, tours, and socializing.
- 2:30 – 5 p.m.: Volunteer tasks and open mic time for performances.
- 5 p.m. and beyond: Potluck dinner and socializing.
Let your creativity run wild while you meet new friends and get plugged into the community. “There’s endless projects to work on,” the event description states. “Dream up something to help the farm and make it real!” Guests are also invited to contribute with music during open mic time. The farm will have guitars, a ukulele, a drum set, keyboard, tuba, clarinet, and more available to share.
Bay Area Makerfarm is a unique outdoor workspace, urban farm, and community hub. They offer free compost, host bike clinics, cultivate native and edible plants, and more. Check out the ways you can get involved online.
Meyers House and Garden Tours
Saturday, June 28
Dive into Alameda history at Meyers House and Garden, 2021 Alameda Avenue, on Saturday, June 28, between 1 and 4 p.m. This special property is open to the public for tours on the fourth Saturday of each month.
The Meyers House was built in 1897, and it is a beautiful example of the Colonial Revival style of architecture that was popular at the time. The house and gardens spread over three city lots, and a carriage house stands there to this day. Along the tour, check out beautiful antiques, furniture, and household items—many of which belonged to the home’s original owners, the Meyers.
Read about the history of the Meyers House and Garden online, and arrive ready to learn even more during the tour. Admission is $5 (cash only), and no RSVP is necessary. Guests may take the tour at their own pace and chat with docents around the property. Final entry is at 3 p.m. Street parking is available around the property. Please note that guests will need to navigate stairs in order to participate in the tour.
What else is going on in Alameda?
All these events and more, in Alameda and beyond, are always posted on our online Events Calendar. Post yours, too, for free!
Amanda Laird is the Content Manager and Events Editor of the Alameda Post. Her writing is collected at AlamedaPost.com/Amanda-Laird. Reach her at [email protected].
