Calligraphy, books, chili, and more!
Chilly temperatures and rainy days are headed our way this week. We think it’s the perfect time to cozy up with a good book, enjoy a hot meal, or participate in some fun indoor activities. On Saturday, February 1, kids are welcome to learn a new skill and socialize at the Little Flippers Pinball Class at the Pacific Pinball Museum. Afterwards, walk a few blocks to check out Cupcake Casino at Doodlecakes Bakery for some sweet treats and fun games. That night, the Kiwanis Club of Alameda invites the community to warm up at their annual Chili Cookoff fundraiser at the Officers Club on Alameda Point. Have you ever wanted to learn calligraphy? On Sunday, February 2, Alameda Brewing is hosting a Galentine’s Beginner Calligraphy class for just such an occasion. Starting on Wednesday, February 5, beat your book slump with some new reading material at the annual Used Book Sale at the Alameda Main Library. A fresh book and a night in sounds like a great way to pass these winter nights.
Little Flippers Pinball Class
Saturday, February 1
The Pacific Pinball Museum (PPM) invites the next generation of pinball lovers to their Little Flippers Pinball Class on Saturday, February 1, from 11:30 a.m. until 12:30 p.m. All kids ages 5 to 12 are welcome to attend this event at the PPM West Side location, 1510 Webster Street.
The Little Flippers is a national organization designed to “introduce kids to social interaction and engagement through fun, hands-on, cross-generational games, which helps to foster important social skills and group participation,” as well as keep the sport of pinball alive for future generations. The chapter at PPM is led by Instructor and facilitator Scott Weigum, a credentialed special education teacher and pinball lover.
Participation in the Little Flippers Pinball Class is covered by a regular ticket to PPM, which is $12 for ages 5-12. No registration is required, and no experience is necessary. Please note that parents are required to stay on site during the event. You may observe the class for free, or you may purchase an adult ticket for $22 to enjoy the rest of the museum.
Doodlecakes 3 Year Celebration – Cupcake Casino
Saturday, February 1
Have you visited that delicious little cupcake shop near Crab Cove? Doodlecakes Bakery, 647 Central Avenue, invites the community to celebrate their third birthday with the Cupcake Casino event. Stop by on Saturday, February 1, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. to wish the bakery well.
Throughout the day, customers can play three mini-games to win prizes, and, of course, purchase some delicious cupcakes. Bakery staff will be dressed as casino card dealers to facilitate the fun. Doodlecakes promises that their best-selling regular cupcake flavor, “Chocolate Wasted,” will be in the case on the big day. Their number one vegan and gluten-free option, Strawberry Crunch, will be available as well. Attend in person to discover the 10 other flavors of the day.
Doodlecakes is open to the public Friday and Saturday, 11 a.m. until 5 p.m. Check out their delicious cupcakes online. The bakery is also known for their custom cakes. Fill out an inquiry form on the website to start the ordering process.
Alameda Kiwanis 23rd Annual Chili Cookoff Fundraiser
Saturday, February 1
The Kiwanis Club of Alameda’s annual fundraiser is almost here! Get ready for the 23rd annual Chili Cookoff on Saturday, February 1, 5 to 9 p.m., at the DeWitt Officers Club, 641 West Redline Avenue (Alameda Point).
The chili tasting will be followed by a silent auction of donated baskets, a full-meat barbecue dinner and sides, live music, dancing, entertainment, and an auction/raffle for high-ticket items. The fundraiser aims to raise $20,000 for Alameda nonprofits that serve children, youth, and families.
Admission to the 23rd Annual Chili Cookoff is $90 for adults and $40 for children ages 4-12. Beer and wine will be sold during the event. To purchase tickets, call 510-764-1472 or email [email protected].
Galentine’s Beginner Calligraphy at Alameda Brewing
Sunday, February 2
Now is your chance to learn calligraphy. Join Sip & Script® at Alameda Brewing, 1716 Park Street, for their Galentine’s Beginner Calligraphy class on Sunday, February 2, from 3:30 to 5 p.m. Arrive early to grab a parking spot and a drink. Of course, you’re welcome to stay after class to try more of what Alameda Brewing has to offer.
Tickets for the class are $75 per person. Each participant will receive a beginner’s calligraphy kit, which contains two nibs, a black ink pot, two letter guides, tracing paper, a straight pen holder, and paper to write on. This class is designed for students who have never taken a calligraphy class before, and lefties are welcome!
“Sip & Script® strives to cultivate creativity through the arts of calligraphy and hand lettering, giving people access to a fun and supportive environment in which to learn and hone their craft,” the organization shares on their website. If Galentine’s Beginner Calligraphy is sold out, don’t dismay! Check out the Sip & Script® online calendar for future events nearby.
Friends of the Alameda Free Library Used Book Sale
Wednesday, February 5 – Saturday February 8
Looking for some new reading material—without breaking the bank? Friends of the Alameda Free Library’s annual Used Book Sale is set for Wednesday, February 5, through Saturday, February 8. Head over to the Alameda Main Library, 1550 Oak Street, for good deals on good reads.
On Wednesday, February 5, the Used Book Sale is open to the public from 3 to 7 p.m. On that day only, Friends of the Alameda Free Library is offering a special sale for teachers—a full bag of books for just $5! On all other days of the sale—Thursday, February 6, through Saturday, February 8—everyone else can shop the sale from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. Books for Friends, a subgroup of the Friends of the Alameda Free Library, will also be offering a buy-one-get-one-free discount.
Friends of the Alameda Free Library was founded in 1974, and have been supporting the library ever since through fundraising efforts and volunteer opportunities. The nonprofit supports 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?
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. Reach her at [email protected].
