Tis the Season in this creative and diverse city!
Oakland, CA – In all our travels around California, Oakland always leads the pack for delivering a culturally-rich, entertainment filled, more fun than you can handle experience. Residents love their city and tirelessly advocate to highlight the brighter side of this sometimes overlooked Bay Area city. Tis the season to explore Oakland!
Known as a diverse city filled with creative energy, Oakland is home to numerous small businesses and shops that are signature to The Town. These hidden gems are found in each of Oakland’s distinctive neighborhoods. From artisan baked goods to hand crafted maker creations, local fashion designs, vintage treasures, foodie finds, and eclectic shops filled with unique gifts – Oakland is the place to find the perfect present for someone special.
2025 Placer County Fair in Roseville!
Oakland proud
“Shop local and tap into the independent spirit and soul of Oakland’s artisans, makers, and merchants. By spending your dollars in the Town’s unique shops, eclectic culinary attractions, and vibrant nightlife, you support the people who contribute to Oakland’s rich character and drive the city’s economic engine,” said Mayor Sheng Thao.
The benefits of shopping locally are widespread. By supporting local establishments, this increases revenue for farmers, suppliers, accountants, cleaners, and uniform manufacturers. Local businesses generate sales tax revenue for the city that is reinvested into the community to further growth and redevelopment.
“Tis the season to be #OakProud! Think, shop, dine and show your love for Oakland by supporting our creative entrepreneurs, eclectic businesses, and delectable restaurants for all of your holiday shopping and dining,” said Barbara Leslie, President & CEO of the Oakland Metropolitan Chamber of Commerce.
Holiday experiences abound
With a vibrant art scene, live music performances, festive shows, great holiday markets, award-winning dining experiences, family-friendly activities and so much more – Oakland’s welcoming community shines bright during the holiday season. And these experiences also make great gifts! Think Oakland First promotes experiential gift giving with certificates for art tours and classes, concert tickets, reservations for amazing cultural culinary adventures, and hotel stays.
“With so much to do in Oakland and a variety of specialty stores, it’s the ideal time to come to our city to shop and stay awhile” stated Peter Gamez, President and CEO of Visit Oakland. “We invite Oaklanders and visitors to take in a show, check out our art galleries, museums and attractions, dine at our award-winning restaurants, experience Oakland’s beautiful hotels and really make the most of the holidays in The Town.”
HERE ARE JUST A FEW WAYS TO KEEP IT LOCAL AND THINK OAKLAND FIRST . . .
SHOP FESTIVE HOLIDAY MARKETS
From art to handmade crafts and delectable treats – our Oakland community holiday markets are filled with gifts and goods that will delight every shopper.
TAKE IN THE CULTURE
Holiday time in Oakland is extra vibrant! With Oakland Art Murmur’s East Bay Open Studios, the Oakland Interfaith Gospel Choir 38th Annual Holiday Concert, the Graham Lustig’s Nutcracker, Glowfari at the Zoo, Fairy Winterland at Children’s Fairyland and more – getting in the holiday spirit is easy in The Town. An entire Oakland calendar of events awaits!
UPCYCLE & GO VINTAGE
Oakland is home to several incredible vintage shops that feature fashion, vinyl records, retro housewares, locally produced jewelry and beauty products, candles, and so much more. Discover The Town’s treasures on a self-guided tour of all things vintage.
GET EXPERT ADVICE
Our community shares great Oakland gift ideas and our talented chefs offer at home entertaining tips using culinary delights found only in Oakland!
GIVE A MEMORABLE EXPERIENCE
Buying a gift card is far from boring when you choose a personalized experience for friends and family. Think art classes, history tours, spa treatments, award winning dining, concerts, movies, hotel stays and more. The possibilities are truly endless in Oakland. Check out this list of Only-In-Oakland shops for inspiration.
RELAX & STAY AWHILE
Oakland has more than 40 hotels from historic icons and sleek contemporary urban oases to family friendly hotels and chic boutique properties. With an array of hotels to choose from, there is a place for everyone to call home. Our hotels are hosting holiday events and offering seasonal rates – giving locals and visitors a few more reasons to stay and enjoy all that The Town has to offer!
The Think Oakland First holiday season promotion is a partnership between the City of Oakland, Visit Oakland, and the Oakland Metropolitan Chamber of Commerce.
To learn more about Think Oakland First and explore the online small business directories and shopping resources go to VisitOakland.com/holidays/
related
- Oakland remains a diverse mosaic of urban delights for adventure seekers
- Oakland Zoo soars above with stunning views, new features, and native creatures
- Visit Oakland Cultivates the Oakland Vegan Trail
☃️ Roseville Today’s Holiday Guide 🎄
Your local resource for holiday fun, entertainment, and encouragement. Check out the latest in Christmas and holiday craft fairs, tree lighting, parades in Roseville, Rocklin, Lincoln, Folsom, and surrounding communities! CLICK HERE FOR THE LATEST UPDATES!
2025 Placer County Fair in Roseville!