It’s a packed day for Alameda and Bay Farm Island!
There are a lot of exciting things happening on Saturday, April 19. For starters, it’s both National Garlic Day and National Cat Lady Day! Here in Alameda, there are other fun events to celebrate as well. <del>In the morning, join the Alameda Post for Part 2 of the Bay Farm history walking tour series.</del> Saturday’s tour has been rescheduled to May 3. Then, starting at midday, three fun and family-friendly events are on the schedule—Alameda Recreation and Parks Department is hosting its annual Spring Shindig at Alameda Point Gym and Field, the Alameda Free Library is celebrating Día de los Niños at the Main Library, and South Shore Center invites the community to their free Easter Bunny Event. On Saturday evening, head over to RADIUM Runway for Shebeen Theatre Company’s unique theatrical production of Shakespeare’s The Comedy of Errors.
History Walking Tour: Bay Farm, Part 2
Bay Farm Island Library, 3321 Mecartney Road
Unfortunately, Dennis is under the weather and won’t be able to lead the tour on Saturday April 19. We have rescheduled the tour for Saturday, May 3. We will honor tickets previously purchased; if you can’t attend the new date, please contact us for a refund.
Part 2 of the Alameda Post’s Bay Farm history walking tour series is here! Bring your friends, family, and well-behaved dogs to this educational stroll back in time. The tour begins and ends at Bay Farm Island Library.
As we dive deeper into Bay Farm history, historian Dennis Evanosky will analyze the Utah Construction Company’s pivotal role in shaping the landscape. Discover the origin of the name “Harbor Bay Isle,” get to know key players like Amos Mecartney, and explore the development that never came to be, known as “Alameda Acres.”
If you missed Part 1 and would like to join us for Part 2, check out Dennis’s articles “Building Out Bay Farm Island” and “Bay Farm Island History” to set the scene. Additionally, you are invited to enjoy an optional, supplementary online lecture that will be available prior to the tour.
History Walking Tours generally last about 90 to 100 minutes and cover one to two miles. We suggest that you wear comfortable shoes and bring water and sunscreen. Tickets are $20 each, and kids under six are free. Get your ticket online for Saturday, April 19 Saturday, May 3, or Sunday, April 27.
Spring Shindig
Alameda Point Gym and Field, 1101 W Red Line Avenue
Grab your cape and tights! Alameda’s Spring Shindig is back, and this year’s theme is “Superheroes.” Alameda Recreation and Park Department (ARPD) has arranged a day of free, family-friendly fun to celebrate Earth Day. Drop by between noon and 3 p.m. to join the festivities.
ARPD has prepared lots of fun activities, including:
- Superhero-themed games.
- Jumpers (all ages).
- A petting zoo.
- A bug exploration area.
- Crafts.
- A “Recycled Hero Contest.”
- Local vendors.
If you don’t have a costume, ARPD welcomes you to make your own at their DIY costume station. The event is free, and you don’t need to reserve a spot. During the Spring Shindig, participants will have the opportunity to register for any open spots in ARPD summer programs. If you have any questions, please contact ARPD at [email protected] or 510-747-7529.
Easter Bunny Event
South Shore Center, 523 South Shore Center West
The Easter Bunny is coming to Alameda! Hop over to South Shore Center’s free, family-friendly Easter Bunny Event from noon until 3 p.m. to join the fun.
Children are invited to enjoy glitter tattoos, face painting, and a petting zoo. There will be a photo booth as well, and attendees are invited to take a selfie with the Big Bunny in person. Each child will receive a swirl lollipop!
Please note that the event will be photographed and filmed, and photos may be posted on South Shore Center’s social media. All activities and gifts are available while supplies last.
Día de los Niños
Alameda Main Library, 1550 Oak Street
The Alameda Free Library’s annual Día de los Niños celebration is back. The Library has planned an afternoon full of free, family-friendly fun from 12:30 until 4:30 p.m.
The schedule is as follows:
- 12:30 to 1:30 p.m.: Puppet Art Theater Co. puppet show.
- 2 to 3 p.m.: Cascada de Flores musical performance.
- 2:30 to 4:30 p.m.: Free photobooth station available for attendees.
- 3 to 4 p.m.: Free churros from Churros Mexicanos.
This free event is made possible by Friends of the Alameda Free Library. Space is limited, and entry is granted on a first come first served basis. From 12:30 until 4:30 p.m., a free health and development screening will be available for children. Additionally, free school readiness materials will be available while supplies last.
Shebeen Theatre Company Presents The Comedy of Errors
RADIUM Runway, 2151 Ferry Point
RADIUM Runway, Alameda’s favorite new open-air performance venue, is open for a new season! Check out an exciting and uncommon show with Shebeen Theatre Company’s presentation of The Comedy of Errors, starting at 6:30 p.m.
Shebeen is shaking things up with a unique, one-night-only pop-up of Shakespeare’s famous farcical comedy. The performers receive the script 30 days in advance, but they don’t rehearse together until the day of the show. Once the show starts, the audience becomes a part of the singular experience.
Admission is free to this all-ages performance. Reserve a spot online to let Shebeen know you’re coming. Guests are invited to spread out a blanket and enjoy a picnic at the venue prior to the performance.
Please note that RADIUM Runway is located on a tarmac. Seating is provided, but guests who prefer to use their own seats for comfort are welcome to bring their own. RADIUM suggests that all guests also bring sun protection, a parka, or anything else required for spring weather in Alameda.
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].
