Beer City Festival, Radio Day by the Bay, history walking tours, and ribbon cuttings for four local businesses
Alameda’s social calendar is packed with regular favorites and exciting special events this week. On Thursday, July 17, join four fantastic local businesses at the Grand Marina for a Ribbon Cutting Ceremony. Some of the beloved businesses have been around for years, while others are up-and-coming. On Saturday, July 19, beer enthusiasts of all energy levels are invited to have fun at the Beer City Festival, including footraces and a brewery crawl scavenger hunt. The same day, California Historical Radio Society welcomes one and all to their Radio Day by the Bay 2025 for a blast into the past and a look at the future of broadcasting.
Alamedans looking for a taste of the familiar have some great options as well. On Saturday, July 19, join Alameda Walks for a stroll and discussion of Alameda Hospital and the surrounding area. And on both Saturday, July 19 and Sunday, July 20, the Alameda Post is hosting a highly anticipated History Walking Tour to dive into the history of Neptune Beach and the Baths.
Ribbon Cutting Ceremony
Thursday, July 17
The Grand Marina just keeps getting better! Join the Alameda Chamber & Economic Alliance to formally welcome four local businesses—and celebrate established favorites—at an official Ribbon Cutting Ceremony on Thursday, July 17. Festivities begin at 5 p.m. at 2099 Grand Street.
Stop by to meet and greet these great businesses:
- Mosley’s Cafe: Grab a delicious bite and beverage at this community favorite coffee and brunch spot where dogs are welcome—and often featured on the cafe’s Instagram. Now with extended summer hours.
- Bae Boats: Rent an electric boat for up to 10 people. Be sure to check out the Insta-worthy hot pink option!
- Two Mary’s Mercantile: Peruse a beautifully curated collection of home decor, clothing, vintage items, and more at this new shop. Well-behaved dogs are welcome on leash.
- Hot Tub Boats: It’s exactly what it sounds like! Comfortably cruise the Oakland Alameda Estuary in style and comfort in your very own hot tub boat. Boats fit up to six people.
After the ribbon cutting, guests are encouraged to participate in the Business After Hours. Get to know your neighbors, chat with local business owners, and enjoy some light bites. While you’re there, hop on a Bae Boat for a short trip to Coast Guard Island. The event is free but the Chamber recommends that you RSVP online.
Beer City Festival
Saturday, July 19
Alameda is a beer-lover’s paradise, and this weekend is no exception. Beer City Festival is coming to RADIUM Runway, 2151 Ferry Point, on Saturday, July 19.
Festivities begin at 8:30 a.m. with a 5K and 10K race, and the new Beer City Half™. Runners and walkers are encouraged to sign up ASAP to reserve a spot.
As the day goes on, the planned activities get more and more exciting and unusual. Check out the “SHINDIG” at Faction Brewing from 1 p.m. until 5 p.m. for a party with music, food trucks, and games. For a twist on a one-mile fun run, join “Beat the Beast,” starting at 11 a.m., when participants will drink four 12-ounce beers while running a mile. Don’t run too slow while trying to keep the beer down—if the “Beast” catches you, you’re out!
Non-runners are more than welcome to attend other festival events. Despite its name, “The Beermazing Race” doesn’t involve any huffing or puffing. Instead, participants accept the challenge to visit five breweries between 1 p.m. and 5 p.m. to drink a pint and find the next clue. Grab a ticket for the Beer Trolley to catch a ride to eight breweries and establishments in Alameda and West Oakland. Trolleys will arrive every 45 minutes.
Tickets for the various events and tours range from $11.60 to $27.50, and race registration prices range from $16.90 to $109.65. Read more on the Beer City Festival website, and get ready to raise a glass to summer.
Radio Day by the Bay 2025
Saturday, July 19
Celebrate the art of radio and the future of broadcasting with the California Historical Radio Society, 2152 Central Avenue, at Radio Day by the Bay 2025. The festivities are scheduled from 8 a.m. until 3 p.m. on Saturday, July 19.
Throughout the day, groove to the rhythm with DJ sets and enjoy live music by the Royal Society Jazz Orchestra. Special presentations will include a live radio play and a recounting of the story of the Tongs, a family of pioneering Chinese American broadcasters in San Francisco dating back to 1939.
While you’re visiting, take a guided museum tour to check out all the latest exhibits—and check out the surplus electronics sale to find a new treasure! Plenty of other exciting activities are planned, including a live auction and a boombox building contest.
Admission to Radio Day by the Bay 2025 is completely free. Attendees are invited to RSVP in advance for a chance to win raffle prizes. Proceeds from the event benefit the California Historical Radio Society.
Alameda Walks
Saturday, July 19
Alameda Walks is back with a tour discussing Alameda Hospital, the history of “Old South Shore,” and a look at some beautiful architecture. Meet at Alameda Hospital, 2070 Clinton Avenue, for the 9 a.m. start. This week’s walk will last approximately one hour and 15 minutes.
Louise Nakada, Manager of Public Affairs and Community Engagement for Alameda Health System, will lead the tour. Learn about the history of Alameda Hospital before venturing out to explore more of the area. Among other destinations, the tour will visit the lovely Meyers House and Garden.
Alameda Walks are sponsored by Alameda Recreation and Park Department (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.
History Walking Tour: Neptune Beach and the Baths
Saturday, July 19 and Sunday, July 20
Turn back time to explore Alameda’s famous historical waterfront resort, commonly known as Neptune Beach. Award-winning Historian Dennis Evanosky will explore the history of “the Coney Island of the West” on Saturday, July 19 and Sunday, July 20. The tours will meet at 10 a.m. at the corner of Central and McKay avenues. (McKay is a block from Webster Street and is the entrance to Crab Cove.)
The history of the tourist destination dates all the way back to 1877, when the resort first opened its doors as Newport Swimming Baths. After years of fantastic success, the famous Neptune Beach would officially open in 1917. The rest, as they say, is history.
Prior to the tour, a supplementary online lecture will be made available so attendees can hit the ground running. If you’d like to get a further head start on what will be discussed, check out Dennis’s articles “Explore Alameda’s Lost Baths and Beaches” and “West End Once Served As a Magnet for Bathers” Part 1 and Part 2.
Alameda Post History Walking Tours generally last about 90 to 100 minutes and cover one to two miles. Wear comfortable shoes, and bring water and sunscreen. Well-behaved, leashed dogs are welcome to attend. Tickets are $20 each, and kids under 6 are free. Get your ticket for Saturday, July 19 or Sunday, July 20 online.
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].
