Start the New Year taking a trip back in time at the Vintage Paper Fair in San Francisco, celebrate at the Three Kings Day Party in San Jose, and appreciate an evening of art and music in Oakland. There’s never a dull moment with this full weekend of events along the Capitol Corridor!
Vintage Paper Fair: 1/6 – 1/7, San Francisco
A perfect event for history buffs and vintage lovers! In San Francisco’s thousand-acre Golden Gate Park, you’ll find the largest selection of old and interesting paper goods at the San Francisco Vintage Paper Fair. Open 10am to 6pm Saturday, and 11am to 5pm Sunday, visitors will explore the biggest paper event on the West Coast. This is California’s finest selection of antique postcards, advertising, pin-up art, local history, sports, entertainment, transportation memorabilia and more. The event is free and free appraisals will be available on site. While you’re there, you can make a day of it by checking out one of the park’s many museums, including the world-famous de Young; strolling around beautiful Stow Lake; or visiting the Japanese Tea Garden.
Getting there: Depending on your station of origin, take the train to the Richmond Station or Oakland Coliseum Station. There you can connect to BART for service into downtown San Francisco. From any of these San Francisco bus or BART stops, you can walk or take public transit using Google Maps.
Three Kings Day Party: 1/6 – 1/7, San Jose
You’re invited to the Children’s Discovery Museum this weekend for the Three Kings Day Party, which brings to life the rich traditions and colorful customs of the Three Kings observances in many Spanish-speaking countries. Participate in traditional Rosca de Reyes bread sampling, while the kids explore their creative side making tissue paper flowers and corn husk dolls. Community performers will provide live entertainment, and the Three Kings will offer delightful photo opportunities for children and families. Festivities are included in the price of museum admission.
Getting there: Take the train to the San Jose/Diridon Station. The museum is within walking distance of the station and is also accessible by the VTA with a free Transit Transfer from the Capitol Corridor.
Oakland First Fridays Block Party: 1/5, Oakland
Hit the streets to see and experience art, live music, and stroll through the eclectic city during Oakland First Fridays Block Party. From 5 to 9:30pm, be inspired, eat great food, and immerse yourself as Oakland’s KONO district (Koreatown Northgate) springs to life. Galleries and artist collectives will be open, street artists, culinary artisans, musicians, dancers, poets, and everything in-between will be sharing their talents. If that sounds overwhelming, start with Oakland Art Murmur, a collection of galleries and mixed-use venue. The range of artistic exhibitions is stimulating and most are open from 6–9 pm. Check their website for venue locations.
Getting there: Take the train to the Berkeley Station, and connect to downtown Berkeley on AC Transit with a free Transit Transfer. Or, take the train to the Richmond Station where you can connect with BART. From there travel to the 19th Street stop and stroll a few blocks to 23rd Street and Telegraph Ave.
Written by Sylvia Sheehan
Photo courtesy Vintage Paper Fair