Grab a brew, cheer on radio legends, go bowling, play mahjong for a cause, and get your next read
This week’s event highlights include a delightful selection of quintessential island activities, old favorites, and new beginnings. Kick off the weekend with a fiesta to celebrate the re-introduction of Alameda Brewing’s Mexican Lager on Friday, January 30. The same evening, everyone is invited to mix and mingle at the California Historical Radio Society while celebrating iconic radio station Live 105, which recently earned the title of Legendary Station of the Year for 2026. On Sunday, February 1, Alameda’s local bowling alley is celebrating new beginnings with a rebrand party as Lucky Strike, including free bowling and arcade games. The same afternoon, the very popular Alameda Mahjong Social Club is hosting a special fundraiser for the Alameda Food Bank at their beautiful new Alameda Point facility. And don’t miss your chance to score great deals on books at the Friends of the Alameda Free Library Used Book Sale, from Wednesday, February 4 through Saturday, February 7.
Mexican Lager Launch Party at Alameda Brewing
Friday, January 30
It’s time for a fiesta! Alameda Brewing is re-introducing their Mexican Lager on Friday, January 30. Stop by the taproom at 1716 Park Street from 5 until 10 p.m. to join the party.
Alameda Brewing enthusiasts will remember the brew under its former name, Hasta la Raíz. The Mexican Lager is officially back in the rotation with a new name, Pachuco. Enjoy the beer on its own, or in a cocktail with micheladas and chavelas.
Festivities for the evening include a live mariachi group, pan dulce, and Mexican candies. There’s no cover charge, and no reservations are required. While you’re there, you can also watch the Warriors take on the Pistons at 7 p.m. on the taproom TVs.
Legendary Station Celebration: Live 105
Friday, January 30
If Live 105 (KITS 105.3 FM) is your go-to radio station, you’re going to love the party that the California Historical Radio Society (CHRS) is hosting on Friday, January 30. Raise a glass to the Live 105 team as they celebrate their new title of Legendary Station of the Year for 2026 from the Bay Area Radio Museum and Hall of Fame (BARHOF). The party is scheduled from 5:30 until 10 p.m. at CHRS, 2152 Central Avenue.
Live 105 will celebrate 40 years of fantastic music in 2026. “Two years before Billboard magazine launched its Modern Rock Tracks chart, Live 105 was already playing the music that would define an era,” the BARHOF award announcement states. “…The station is credited with launching or boosting the careers of many major modern rock acts.”
Doors open at 5:30 p.m., a program is scheduled from 7 until 8:30, and the party continues until 10 p.m. Featured speakers and guests include Richard Sands, Alex Bennett, Steve Masters, Big Rick Stuart, John Allers, Aaron Axelsen, Mark Hamilton, Ed Krampf, Gabby Medecki, No Name, Dallas Osborne, Spud, Lori Thompson, Roland West, and Marci Wiser.
Tickets are $45 per person and may be purchased online. Heavy appetizers are included in the price of your ticket, and guests are welcome to purchase drinks from the no-host bar.
Lucky Strike Launch Party
Sunday, February 1
Alameda’s bowling alley got a rebrand! What used to be called The Bowlero at 300 Park Street is now known as Lucky Strike. Help celebrate at the Lucky Strike Launch Party on Sunday, February 1, from 11 a.m. until 2 p.m.
This family-friendly event is free to attend, and guests will receive one free bowling game each. All attendees will also receive a $10 arcade credit and complimentary snacks. Guests are invited to snap a photo, tag Lucky Strike, and share their experience on Instagram for a chance to win a prize.
Attendees must RSVP online in advance. Please note that there are no lane reservations available, and attendees will get their turn on a lane on a first come, first served basis.
Alameda Mahjong Social Club Fundraiser for the Alameda Food Bank
Sunday, February 1
Supporting the Alameda Food Bank (AFB) is always a good choice, and this week it’s extra fun! Join the Mahjong Social Club at the Alameda Food Bank’s new facility, 677 West Ranger Avenue, on Sunday, February 1, for a mahjong fundraiser from 1 until 4:30 p.m.
Participants are invited to enjoy light refreshments, engage in some friendly competition, and make new friends. If you’ve been curious about the beautiful new AFB facility, it’ll also be a great opportunity to see the new digs. Tickets are $40 and going fast.
A limited number of “First Timer” tickets will be available for brand new players. Event organizers ask that participants who have played before—even just once—select a “General Admission” ticket. Players will be grouped according to skill level, so you’ll be in good company even if you’re still learning.
Friends of the Alameda Free Library (FAL) Used Book Sale
Wednesday, February 4 – Saturday, February 7
Get your next read at a great price at FAL’s annual Used Book Sale this week. Head over to the Alameda Main Library, 1550 Oak Street, on Wednesday, February 4 from 1 until 6 p.m., or Thursday, Friday, and Saturday from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. to shop.
The sale promises over 10,000 books at “unbeatable prices.” A wide variety of books for all ages will be available. And on Wednesday, February 4, educators are invited to fill up an entire bag for only $5!
Friends of the Alameda Free Library was founded in 1974 and has been supporting the library ever since through fundraising efforts and volunteer opportunities. The nonprofit backs a number of library programs, including the Alameda Reads literacy program and art docent lectures. Check out their website for more information and ways to get involved.
What else is going on in Alameda?
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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].
