Hiatus 5/30

Hey Everyone,

BayScope will be on a short hiatus. I'll be away for a program for a while but afterwards everything will be back up and running. While there won't be any new blog posts for a while, the Twitter page will still be up and running so check it out @BayScope.

Be Back Soon...

Food Trucks, Chocolate & Free Films 5/27

FRIDAY

Off the Grid: Food Truck Party
Fort Mason
Marina and Laguna, San Francisco
5pm - 10pm

The “Off the Grid” Food Truck Party returns this Friday at Fort Mason Center on May 6th with nearly two dozen different food vendors and food trucks. The event lasts all evening (from 5pm to 10pm), with tons of tents for coverage from the elements, Alembic Bar & Magnolia Brewery are running the bar, plus there’s usually live music starting around 6pm.


Free Chocolate Tasting
Press Club
20 Yerba Buena Lane, San Francisco
6pm - 9pm

A free chocolate tasting featuring some of the country’s top artisanal producers. You’ll be able to taste everything from dark chocolate single origin bars to creative confections like chocolatey salt and pepper cookies. The first 100 attendees will get a free taste of Late Harvest Zinfandel


Free Film Fridays
MLK Jr. Civic Center Park
2151 MLK Jr. Way, Berkeley
8pm - 10pm

Free Film Fridays is Berkeley Community Media's way of saying Thank You to the city of Berkeley.  We will be showing movies that make a difference and have some connection to community.  This month's film is "Time in the Minors" a documentary about baseball.  Come join us for a big screen and small town experience in the park with some pop and pop corn!

Music, Nighlife & Clubbing 5/26

Thursday...


SoundWaves Outdoor Music Series
Jack London Square
66 Franklin St., Oakland
5:30pm - 7:30pm

Enjoy the sounds of live big band music along the beautiful waterfront.  Jack London Square introduce a new outdoor music series called SoundWaves.  SoundWaves presents the best local musical talent in an unparalleled setting.  Artists will cover genres ranging from smooth jazz, to big band classics and more.  You will be able to enjoy these bands while overlooking the beautiful waterfront.  Concerts continue weekly through June on Thurdays at 5:30 pm.  It’s a great way to end the workday and enjoy the outdoors.

Nightlife at the Academy of Sciences
California Academy of Sciences
55 Music Concourse Dr., San Francisco
6pm - 10pm


Sample a variety of cheeses provided by local and sustainable farms. Wine pairing by local sommelier Alex Casella, who also showcases his personal palate in the first vintage of JAC ONE Napa Valley Cabernet. Talk by Rainbow Grocery’s Gordon Edgar on becoming a cheesemonger, followed by a book signing of Cheesemonger: A Life on the Wedge. Music by Janky Barge DJ collective and KMEL’s DJ Mind Motion. $12 cover, 21+ crowd. 


Club Drama
Uptown Night Club
1928 Telegraph Ave., Oakland
9pm - 2am


Club Drama is your place to dance to the best Indie, Electro, Remixes and MORE! in the East Bay every LAST Thursday at Oakland's best alternative venue, The Uptown! Club Drama is an all inclusive party where all are welcome! Gay, straight, bi, transgendered, queer, etc! Come one, come all! $5 cover, 21+ crowd.

Comedy, Karaoke & Swing Dancing 5/25

It's Wednesday! Looking for something to get into? Look no further.

Free Outdoor Swing Dancing
Union Square
Powell & Geary, San Francisco
6pm - 8pm


Live in San Francisco's Union Square, free swing dance lessons, live music and Djs playing all sorts of swinging music from the 1930's thru the 1950's. Each week features a beginning swing dance lesson taught by various SF Bay Area teachers so yes, this is your chance to get out on the floor and boogie! Dj-6pm, 6:30pm - 7pm Beginning dance lesson, concurrent with open dancing. 7pm - 8pm live music!


"Star Walker" Comedy Show
The Purple Onion
140 Columbus Ave., San Francisco
8pm - 11pm

Stand-Up Comedy in the North Beach of San Francisco on the 34th Anniversary of A New Hope you say? Yes, indeed I say! Start your evening at the Historic Purple Onion for the low-low-low price of $10. To top it all off, the night will be hosted by San Francisco greatest MC: The Legendary Tony Sparks (Brainwash Cafe). 


$7 Comedy Night
The Make Out Room
3225 22nd St., San Francisco
8pm - 10pm

This May 25th, join host Paco Romane and headliner W Kamau Bell at The Romane Event Comedy Show. Watch some of the Bay Area’s best comedians in an “anything goes and probably will” environment, with cool tunes by Dj Specific, and stiff drinks, in one of San Francisco’s best clubs, The Make-Out Room.


Karaoke Night at Pandora
Pandora Karaoke & Bar
177 Eddy St., San Francisco
9pm - 2am

Your Host DJ ALLIER and his lovely assistant, Karaoke Mistress JANET WOOD
Get the party started at 9pm and we keep going until 2am EVERY SINGLE WEDNESDAY
Come by, bring a friend, and let your inner Rock Star SHINE!

Wine, Mob's & Mics 5/24

It's cheap movie night! For $5 you can stop by the Concord drive in for a double feature of Fast Five and Thor or see the new Pirates of the Caribbean movie. If you need more choices check out the Regal Cinema in Jack London Square  or the United Artists Theater in Emeryville. They both feature $5 movies today.


Free Wine Tasting
Otis Lounge
25 Maiden Lane, San Francisco
5:30 - 9:00pm


You will be able to taste all of our wines for FREE! Enjoy appetizers provided by new restaurant “Radish”, cheese provided by “Fiscalini” paired with great wine to awesome music! 100% of proceeds will be donated to our Plant a Seed Foundation project- building a chicken farm that will impact 1,500 orphaned & abandoned children. 



Flash Mob Dance Class: Thriller
Bollyhood Cafe
3372 19th St., San Francisco
7pm - 9pm

Bay Area Flash Mob will recreate the King of Pop’s most iconic music videos with renditions of “Thriller”, “Beat It” “Bad” and “Smooth Criminal.” The big flash mob is Saturday, June 25th, the second anniversary of MJ’s passing. If you’ve never been in a flash mob, here’s your chance. The mob will perform a Medley including all these songs.


Open Mic @ The Starry Plough
3103 Shattuck Ave, Berkeley
8pm - 10pm

Every Tuesday Open Mic Hosted By Joan Pez.

Heralded as the finest open mic in all of the Bay Area and beyond. 

Every Tuesday, everyone gets to play.
There are Featured Acts each week and a guaranteed raucous time!

Sign up at 7:30 
All-Ages Until 10pm
Free!

Networking, Films & Movies 5/23

It's so hard waking up on Monday's, especially when you don't get enough sleep. I now understand the importance of coffee, but I don't think I'll ever get the true hang of it. When you (and I) finally awaken for our work day, here are a few things to do today.

Networking Workshop
The Box SF
1069 Howard St., San Francisco
6pm - 9pm


Come to The Art of Active Networking and learn how to do better, meet some amazing people and attend a sponsor free evening! Tickets at http://www.TheArtofAct. This is not your typical networking event. You will leave refreshed and excited...take a look at our site for reviews!  Come see why nearly 3500 people have already attended.


Film Screening: Pushing the Elephant
Hayward Public Library
835 C St., Hayward
6pm - 8pm


When civil war came to Rose Mapendo's Congolese village, Rose managed to escape with nine of her ten children, but was separated from her five-year-old daughter, Nangabire. More than a decade later, mother and daughter are reunited in the U.S., where they must come to terms with the violence and devastation of the past and build a new future.


Free Movie Screening: TRON
The Independent
628 Divisadero, Sam Francisco
8pm - 10pm


The son of a virtual world designer goes looking for his father and ends up inside the digital world that his father designed. He meets his father's creation turned bad and a unique ally who was born inside the digital domain of The Grid.

Food, Films & Circus Acts 5/22

SUNDAY

Doof-A-Palooza: Food Festival
Jack London Square
66 Franklin St., Oakland
10am - 5pm


The 3rd annual DooF-a-Palooza, a free admission food and family festival for children of all ages and adults takes place at beautiful Jack London Square in Oakland. Like the wildly successful prior two festivals at Google Headquarters, DooF-a-Palooza, a food-backwards, table-to-source, food educational experience, includes contests, games, entertainment and fun hands-on activities with growers, chefs, purveyors, businesses, and cookbook authors all filmed and streamed live online.


Character Project - Film Screening
Justin Herman Plaza
Upper Level
Market St. at the Embarcadero, San Francisco
10am - 8pm

Screenings of the Character Project short films will be available to consumers through a multi-day touring exhibition beginning in New York City on Friday, May 13th and visiting Los Angeles, San Francisco and Chicago. Audiences in these cities will be invited to visit customized screening capsules as unique as the films that inspired them. Creatively adapted from shipping containers into state-of-the-art screening rooms, these 18-seat, fully air-conditioned spaces will offer the comforts of a mini-theater with the sleek style and spectacle of a contemporary art installation.


Circus Spring Carnival
Circus Center
755 Fredrick St., San Francisco
11am - 4pm

On Sunday 22 May, join us for Spring Carnival! In this family-friendly extravaganza, we'll have events and spectacles for children of all ages. Come try the flying trapeze, learn to walk the tightrope or juggle. Enjoy free performances throughout the day. Test your balance and perform feats of strength, or get your face painted!

Pricing: varies by event, $2/ticket with discount packages available

Children, Wine & Soul 5/21

SATURDAY  5/21

6th Annual International Children Dance & Food Festival
Golden Gate Club
50 South Tea Garden Dr., San Francisco
10am - 6pm

There will be 22 different traditional dances performed by kids with parents from 22 different countries all over the world, including: Afghanistan, Argentine, Bosnia, China, Brazil, Ireland, Korea, Mexico, Morocco, Polynesia, Russia, Spain, Thailand and even Native American dances.
Other Activities:

• Foods from all over the world, including: gyro, kofte, ayran, baklava, turkish coffee, dolma, borek, gozleme, lahmacun, ozbek rice and more
• Magic show from Magic Dan
• Puppet Show

Uncorked! Wine Festival
Ghirardelli Square
Larkin & Polk St., San Francisco
1pm - 6pm





Tasting tickets for Uncorked are $50 and include a souvenir wine glass and unlimited tastings. All other activities at Uncorked are free of charge for attendees. There is no admission fee to enter the event. Other activities include cooking demonstrations by renown Bay Area chefs, seminars such as “Wine 101” and “Chocolate & Wine Pairings.” The event will also have great musical entertainment.



KBLX Who's Got Soul - Talent Search Finale
Jack London Square
66 Franklin St, Oakland
2pm - 4pm


KBLX has been calling out to all Bay Area Soul and R&B enthusiasts asking them "Who's Got Soul?" This talent search will conclude at the finale hosted at Jack London Square from 2 - 4 p.m. as the finalists battle it out for the coveted spot of opening act at the KBLX Stone Soul Concert.

Jazz, Movies & 80's 5/20

Good Friday! For a recap of yesterday's Jazz concert in Oakland, it was really nice. SoundWaves is a summer music series that will be happening Thursdays. They had it set up really nicely on the lawn outside of Miss Pearl's Jam House but unless you're ordering food and sitting on Miss Pearl's patio, actual seating is limited. Bring a chair or a blanket and set up camp on the lawn. Crystal Monee Hall was yesterday's feature, and if she is a look at what's to come then you won't want to miss the next SoundWaves show on the 26th featuring the Big Band sounds of the Ben Oni Orchestra.


Live Jazz Concert
Oakland Marriott City Center
1001 Broadway, Oakland
7pm - 9pm


"LIVE JAZZ BY THE SAX MAN...SONY FAIRLEY, PLAYING FOUR HORNS...A MUST SEE !!!!! LIVE PAINTING BY THE ARTIST TONY STROMAS, EVERY FRIDAY AND SAT. FOR AFTER WORK HAPPY HOUR.....THE OAKLAND MARRIOTT, DOWNTOWN OAKLAND CA. FOR MORE INFO. tstromas@gmail.com - tell a friend to come on by !!!! all New Lounge area !!!"


$5 Movie Night: A Streetcar Named Desire
Paramount Theatre
2025 Broadway, Oakland
8pm - 10pm

"“A Streetcar Named Desire” (1951) – Tennessee Williams’s Pulitzer Prize-winning play with Marlon Brando and Vivien Leigh setting the scene for one of the most vicious battles of the sexes ever filmed. When the curtain rises at 8:00 p.m., you’ll be treated to a newsreel, cartoon, previews, and the Paramount’s prize give-away game “Dec-O-Win”. The feature film begins at 8:30 p.m."


That 80's Show - PARTY
Madrone Art Bar
500 Divisadero St., San Francisco
9pm - 1:30am


"From the producers of The Prince and Michael Experience, http://bombhiphop.com presents the ultimate 80s party - THAT 80s SHOW. Cabbage Patch Kids, Rubik's Cube, Live Aid, Flashdance, Purple Rain, Beat Street, Yo MTV Raps, spandex, leggings & shoulder pads! If you grew up in the 80's come by and relive the decade and if you weren't around in the 80's come experience what you missed. With dj's Dave Paul and Jeff Harris the fun begins at 9pm. $5 cover for 21+ crowd."

Jazz, Backpacking & Partying 5/19

This weekend can't come fast enough.

SoundWaves Outdoor Music Series
Jack London Square
66 Franklin St., Oakland
5:30pm - 7:30pm

"Jack London Square introduce a new outdoor music series called SoundWaves.  SoundWaves presents the best local musical talent in an unparalleled setting.  Artists will cover genres ranging from smooth jazz, to big band classics and more.  You will be able to enjoy these bands while overlooking the beautiful waterfront.  Concerts continue weekly through June on Thurdays at 5:30 pm.  It’s a great way to end the workday and enjoy the outdoors."


Backpacking for Beginners
Sports Basement
610 Old Mason St., San Francisco
6:30pm - 7:30pm

"Bears keeping you out of the back country? This is an opportunity for people who want to gain the skills to explore backcountry trails & camp in the wilderness. Join Roger Williams for an hour of Backpacking 101. This seasoned Sierra Club veteran will guide you through backpacking gear (backpacks, tents, food), navigation, first aid, and trip planning. As summer quickly approaches, you can learn to camp with confidence!"


SF Weekly Best of SF 2011
Ruby Skye
420 Mason St., San Francisco
9pm - 12am

"Join us to celebrate all the Best of San Francisco. Enjoy live entertainment, music, live art installation, drink specials, features from our sponsors and much more to come. $10 admission goes to Benefit our Masterminds Artist Grant Program. The event will feature life performances by The Peelers and DJ ZAQ. Also at the event enjoy complimentary massages, live screen printing, and more."

Baseball, Spy's & Salsa 5/18

Happy Wednesday.

Jericho Urban Spy Game
Union Square
Geary and Stockton St., San Francisco
7pm - 9pm


"Jericho is an Urban Game that is a battle of wits, because everyone is a spy! Think of it as a game of capture the flag played in public. We will meet every month to play rain or shine, day or night. All that is needed to play is a Nerf pistol, a baseball cap, a healthy imagination, and an uncanny ability to hide in plain sight. All games are usually played downtown. No advance preparation needed. Just show up at the meeting spot with your gun & hat. Cellphones are not required, but suggested."


Oakland A's $2 Ticket Day
Oakland Coliseum
7000 Coliseum Way, Oakland
7pm - 9pm

"$2 tickets are available in Plaza Level, Plaza Outfield and Plaza Reserved sections, while supplies last. Purchase tickets now for this popular promotion. $2 Wednesdays are presented by BART. Tonight's game is against the Twins and starts at 7pm."


Noches de Salsa
Shiro Restaurant Lounge
1523 Giammona Dr., Walnut Creek
9pm - 12am

It's Salsa Night at Shiro!

$10 Cover / $5 Guest List
* 1 FREE DOMESTIC BEER!!! or 1 FREE well MARGARITA!!!
V.I.P BOTTLE SERVICE (925)425.1400 shirowalnutcreek@yahoo.com

, shirowc@mail.com Kitchen closes at 9:pm
http://www.shirowc.com/home.html

Books, Movies, & Theatre 5/17

Things have been really hectic lately. I was out of town this past weekend and almost didn't make it back due to the weather, so that accounts for the silence yesterday.


Movie Screening: With My Own Two Wheels
Sports Basement
610 Old Mason St., San Francisco
5:30pm - 9pm

"For many Americans, the bicycle is a choice. An expensive toy. An eco-conscious mode of transportation. For countless others across the globe, it is much more. For Fred, a health worker in Zambia, the bicycle is a means of reaching twice as many patients. For Bharati, a teenager in India, it provides access to education. For Mirriam, a disabled Ghanaian woman, working on bicycles is an escape from the stigma attached to disabled people in her community. With My Own Two Wheels weaves together the experiences of five people from around the globe into a single story about how the bicycle can change the world -- one pedal stroke at a time." 

Free admission. Arrive early for seating.




One Nation Under Sex - Book Review
Books Inc.
1760 4th St., Berkeley
7pm - 9pm

"LARRY FLYNT and DAVID EISENBACH in Berkeley!  In One Nation Under Sex, free speech activist and notorious Hustler magazine publisher Larry Flynt teams up with Columbia University history professor David Eisenbach to peek behind the White House bedroom curtains and document how hidden passions have shaped public life. "

Free admission. Arrive early for seating.



Theatre Pub Presents: Henry IV
Cafe Royale
800 Post St., San Francisco
7:30pm - 9pm


"Monday night, the San Francisco Theater Pub tackles Shakespeare for the first time in our history with THE BOAR’S HEAD – a new play drawn from the text of Henry IV Parts I and II and Henry V. Director Jessica Richards turns the entire bar space into the Boar’s Head tavern in Eastcheap, where a young prince struggles to reconcile himself with the responsibility that will be expected of him as king."

Free admission. Arrive early for seating.

Foot Race & Festivals 5/15

SUNDAY

Bay 2 Breakers - 12K Foot Race
Embarcadero, San Francisco
7am - 12pm


"The 100th running of the Zazzle Bay to Breakers will celebrate the race’s heritage and allow everyone to be a part of its history. We are excited to announce the following new initiatives for the centennial Zazzle Bay to Breakers 12k race. "


Oakland GREEK Festival
Greek Orthodox Cathedral of the Ascension
4700 Lincoln Ave., Oakland
10am - 11pm


"What makes this Festival so special is that you will have an opportunity to experience the best of Greece with its natives, your friends and neighbors. We invite you to celebrate our own Greek culture with us while enjoying the breathtaking views of the bay! We hope that you leave feeling a little more "Greek" than when you arrived! Opa!!
$6 Admission"


25th Annual Young at Art Festival
De Young Museum
50 Hagiwara Tea Garden Dr., San Francisco
11am - 5pm

"The San Francisco Unified School District proudly unveils Young at Art; an 8 day celebration of student creativity in visual, literary, media and performing arts hosted by the world renowned de Young Museum in Golden Gate Park from May 14-22, 2011 (closed Monday, May 16, 2011).  For the past 25 years this unique San Francisco event, (formerly San Francisco Youth Arts Festival), has been a point of destination for families, teachers, artists and community members from San Francisco and beyond."

Mystery Events & Scavenger Hunts 5/14

SATURDAY

Mystery Event
Yerba Buena Gardens Esplanade
Mission St. & 4th St., San Francisco
9am - 10pm

Stop by the Yerba Buena Gardens today for a surprise event! It could be live music, performance, food, or something else entirely. All we know is that its happening all day and is entirely free.


Scavenger Hunt SF
Kezar Pub
770 Stanyan, San Francisco
7:15pm - 11pm

A huge scavenger hunt is a great way to enjoy a Saturday. Tonight CLASH is hosting its weekly hunt in the Upper Haight, and the theme is superheros! Wear your best costume as you compete with your team to win the grand prize! The game starts at 8pm but doors are open at 7:15 for drinks and socializing. Entry is $10 per person, but bring a team of 6 and entry is only $40.


Hella Gay Dance Party
Uptown Night Club
1928 Telegraph Ave., Oakland
9pm - 12am

"HELLA GAY DANCE PARTY! A bunch of regular East Bay girls who just wanted to throw a rad party in Oakland got together and created Hella Gay. None of them could have known what a big hit it was going to be & how awesome people would respond to a party."

"GStar, Astro & rotating guest DJ's spinning electronica, indie, house & hip-hop. $7 cover."

Bikes, Hills, & 70's 5/12

It's Thursday. We're inching closer to the weekend and the Bay to Breakers festival. If you haven't been, definitely make you way this year to the annual San Francisco event that's been going on for over 100 years. There will be tons of people, so plan for it now. Until then, enjoy a Bike party, Asian celebration and runners challenge.


Bike Away from Work Party
Old Oakland
Washington St. & 9th St., Oakland
5:30pm - 8:30pm

"Join the East Bay Bicycle Coalition, Walk Oakland Bike Oakland and hundreds of cyclists in wrapping up the excitement of Bike to Work Day with our biggest, most extravagant ever Bike Away from Work Party and celebration. The Bay Area's biggest Bike to Work Day party culminates weeks of great bike events and preparations for the largest bike event in the Bay Area."

This year's gala event features:

• The Muddy Roses Band 
• music, raffle prizes, drinks from Trumer Pils Brewery in Berkeley and Clif Winery as well as Hansen's sodas 
• the fabulous Derailleurs fire show 
• and more...

Divis Up or Shut Up Challenge
Fleet Feet Sports
2076 Chestnut St., San Francisco
6pm - 7pm


"The Divis Up or Shut Up Challenge is a fun, challenging, and free event for the San Francisco running community to challenge all skill levels to take on the hardest hill in The City. In a 30 minute time period, how many times can you run up Divisidero St (between Lombard and Broadway)? All levels of runners are welcome to attend.  The grade of the route is very, very steep, so choose your battle wisely!  (Think Lyon St stairs... only longer... and without the stairs.) Prizes will be awarded."


Asian Heritage Celebration
Macy's Union Square
170 O'Farrell St., San Francisco
6pm - 7:30pm

"To celebrate Asian Pacific American Heritage Month, the INC Department of Macy’s is hosting an esteemed author and one-time political refugee, plus feasting with a traditional asian dance performance, music and drinks. Plus: Receive complimentary beauty tips from Shiseido."


Official Bay to Breakers Pre-Party
Sip Bar & Lounge
787 Broadway St., San Francisco
9pm - 12am

"Can't wait til Sunday morning to get in costume? Come out to SIP on Thursday! In association with ZOMG! the Official Pre-Bay to Breakers Events: SIP presents "70's Gangsta Sh*t!" featuring the sounds of Isaac Hayes, Curtis Mayfield, Bobby Caldwell & more + a little disco & country. For more info on ZOMG! Visit: http://zomg.zazzle.com/zomg_thursday/ Happy Hour Drink Specials from 9p-10p.
Doors open at 9pm. No cover. No dresscode."

Swing, Books, & Prom 5/11

Yesterday we took a small break but we're back. Before we get to the events, I just want to plug a great movie. If you haven't seen Thor yet, you're missing out. I saw it recently in 3D, and it was great! It had a good amount of comedy and lots of action. The 3D wasn't too bad either, just enough to accent the movie, but not too much so you remember you're wearing glasses. Also if you see it in theaters, stay around after the credits for a sneak peak at what's coming next.

<iframe width="640" height="390" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/JOddp-nlNvQ" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>


Swing Dance Lessons
Berkeley City Club
2315 Durant Ave., Berkeley
6pm - 11pm

Take today to try new things. Tonight at the City Club you can attend Swing Dancing lessons and socialize with other beginning & intermediate dancers. Bring those two left feet in for a correction. Intermediate lessons start at 6pm, and beginner lessons at 7. From 8pm on it's an open floor. Tickets are available online from $6 to $15.


Book Review - Jane Austen
Books Inc. 1760 4th St., Berkeley
7pm - 8pm

I'm a Jane Austen fan, but I've only ever seen her work in movie form. The Jane Austen Society is putting on an event all about Jane at Books Inc. Join the conversation tonight at 7pm with William Deresiewicz, the author of A Jane Austen Education and Karen Joy Fowler, the author of Jane Austen Book Club.


2nd Annual Mission Prom Night
Make Out Room
3225 22nd St., San Francisco
9:30pm - 12:30am

I didn't enjoy my prom much and I'm sure there are people who feel the same, but tonight you can try it again. Slip into your old gown, buy a new tux, and prepare for a night of photography, live music, and a prom king and queen. Unlike high school, this prom has an open bar to provide you with a bit of liquid courage for the dance floor. Enjoy.

Music, Movies & Magic 5/9

It can be hard falling back into the work week after the weekend. Make your Monday worthwhile with these events. 

One eskimO Free Live Performance
Apple Store
One Stockton St., San Francisco
6:30pm - 7:30pm


"An atmospheric rock band led by singer/songwriter Kristian Leontiou, One eskimO released its self-titled debut in 2009. Hailing from London, Leontiou had started his recording career several years earlier as a solo artist. After signing a major-label recording deal with Polydor, he made his full-length solo album debut in 2004 with Some Day Soon. Come out to the Apple Store and check out the incredible harmonies and poignant songwriting of One eskimO at a special free live performance."


Mr. Mystic Live - Magic Show
San Francisco Public Library
1305 18th Ave., San Francisco
7pm - 8pm

"MR. MYSTIC, legendary bay area performer, as seen on America's Got Talent, KTVU, KPIX, & KGO brings his hilarious and outrageous comedy, magic, and unexplained phenomena to the Sunset Library for all to witness a show that gives new meaning to the saying "Only in San Francisco." You are invited to enter MR. MYSTIC's World, unlike any other and if you are one of the first 25 guests, you will receive the MR. MYSTIC HypnoDisc to feel the power. The show is free to attend but there is a warning: This show will change your life. No registration is needed. FREE to the public"


Free Movie - Black Swan
The Independent
628 Divisadero, San Francisco
8pm - 10pm


"A ballet dancer wins the lead in "Swan Lake" and is perfect for the role of the delicate White Swan - Princess Odette - but slowly loses her mind as she becomes more and more like Odile, the Black Swan. Free showing with a 2 drink minimum."

Sunday Festivals 5/8

SUNDAY

11th Annual Spring Festival
Historic Park St. Business District
Central at Grand St., Alameda
10am - 6pm
 
"The 11th Annual Park Street Spring Festival has become a Mother’s Day weekend tradition in Alameda. With over 150 vendors, the street fair is a perfect place to find a gift for Mom. Or maybe you would like to treat Mom to a mimosa and lunch at one of the street’s food establishments. Fun for the whole family! Art and craft vendors, live music, kids’ area, food vendors, and beer & wine sales."

Sunday Streets Festival
Mission District
24th St. & Valencia St, San Francisco
11am - 4pm

"Sunday Streets 2011 Season continues the tradition of visiting diverse communities throughout the City with a variety of routes in different neighborhoods. While returning to popular areas along established routes, 2011 events will extend into new neighborhoods and include more diverse program elements that highlight each neighborhood’s unique character and often overlooked community attractions and institutions."


2nd Sundays - Dance Performance
CounterPULSE
1310 Mission St., San Francisco
2pm - 4pm


"Dancers' Group and CounterPULSE have teamed up to present 2nd Sundays, a series of free salons where artists share work and dialogue with audience members and fellow artists. We see this as an exciting opportunity to advance discussion of the craft and hope you'll join us for the conversation. Free admission!"

Saturday Festivals 5/7

SATURDAY

Cinco De Mayo Festival 2011
Dolores Park - 18th St. & Delores
San Francisco
10am - 6pm

"The festivities will continue on the main stage with over 10 local talented artists performing throughout the day.  The performers will delight the audience to an array of  diverse cultural performances, which will include an traditional Aztec dance group,  Xiuhcoatl Danza Azteca, traditional Mexican folk dancers, Los Ensambles Ballet  Folklorico, an effervescent experience of outstanding mariachi music, by Ms. Berta  Olivia y Su Marachi Mexicanisimo, several talented young Latin professionals, Latin  Jazz Youth Ensemble,  Futuro Picante, Margarita and the energetic, versatile, salsa orchestra of the Julio Bravo y su Orchesta Salsabor.

The Kids Zone sponsored by San Francisco Healthy Kids will include a full day of arts and crafts including painting, beading, weaving with balloon art, magic tricks and lots of laughs."


10th Annual Pagan Festival
Civic Center Park
2151 Martin Luther King Jr. Way
(between Center and Allston)
Berkeley
10:30am - 5:30pm


"Music, Dance, Stage Performances, Speakers, Pagan Pride Parade in the streets of Berkeley, Speaker's Pavilion, Altars, Public Ritual, Vendors, Druid Story Telling Pavilion, Green Pavilion and Displays, Authors Circle, Arts & Crafts Pavilion, Info Booths and Program/Resource Guide."

"Interfaith Procession begins at NOON. Line-up with our Color Guards Kay and Bryce at 11:30 am.
Best Costume prizes for Youth and Adults! Best Float prize!"


Childrens's Day Festival
Japantown Peace Plaza, Sam Francisco

"In recognition of Japan's national holiday to celebrate children, the JCCCNC presents our annual Children's Day Festival in Japantown.  There will be entertainment, food and hands-on craft activities for children."

Food & Art Showcase 5/6

We have officially reached the end of the work week, which means it's time to party! The fact that it's a holiday week just makes it that much better. Cinco de Mayo may have been yesterday, but seis, siete and ocho falling on a weekend unintentionally spread our our celebrations. How will you celebrate?

FRIDAY

18th Annual Artists Warehouse Sale 
Building A, Fort Mason Center
San Francisco
12pm - 8pm

"A huge selection of original artworks at a savings of up to 75 percent! Two venues with over 7,000 square feet filled with art: your first chance to purchase art by more than three hundred artists at incredible savings!


Preview sale tickets: $10 at the door; free for SFMOMA members"


Off the Grid: Food Truck Party
Fort Mason
Marina & Laguna, San Francisco
5pm - 10pm


"The “Off the Grid” Food Truck Party returns this Friday at Fort Mason Center on May 6th with nearly two dozen different food vendors and food trucks.
The event lasts all evening (from 5pm to 10pm), with tons of tents for coverage from the elements, Alembic Bar & Magnolia Brewery are running the bar, plus there’s usually live music starting around 6pm."



RAW Visual Art Showcase
The Uptown
500 William St., Oakland
6pm - 10pm


"As the RAW art gallery exhibit prepares to showcase leading contemporary artists during the Oakland Art Murmur, it is "worth a look out," according to Juxtapoz art and culture online magazine. The RAW featured artists include Brian Leo, Greg Gossel, Carly Ivan Garcia and Greg Haberny. The exhibit is co-curated by Neo abstract artist and curator Carly Ivan Garcia, and Spoke Art's Ken Harman.

Uptown gallery has become a showplace for artists and their works. The curatorial concept and event takes great measure to ensure that each artist invited to participate reflects the rich diversity of Oakland. "

Happy Cinco De Mayo 5/5

If you've ever needed an excuse to party, today is the day! Happy Cinco De Mayo! As a heads up, these are only a few of many events going on today so feel free to search around for something that may be closer to you.


Cinco De Mayo Celebration
Oakland City Center
1414 Clay St., Oakland
12pm - 1pm


"Come celebrate Cinco de Mayo and get into the festive mood with a special performance by Ballet Folklorica Mexicano."


"About Ballet Folklorica Mexicano: The dance company draws on traditional dance, music and songs as tools for cultural transmission. Since its founding, the BFM has educated and provided performing opportunities to many young people."



One Big ART Party
White Box Studio
1730 San Pablo Ave., Oakland
6pm - 10pm

"Live Music+Flamenco Guitars+Food Truck+Sangria+Silent Auction & Art/Gift Sales

Come spend Cinco de Mayo eating, drinking and seeing art by some of the Bay Area's top artists!

This stellar evening extravaganza is made possible by the generous collaboration between local businesses, members of the art community and young artists of Oakland School for the Arts, to raise funds for Arts education.

We have an amazing line up of entertainment throughout the night. Artists include: Archival print from the Dorothea Lange collection, Huge Leeman, Laurel True, Keiko Kuramoto and many, many more...  Prices range from $10 - $2000 - something for everyone. "


Cinco De Mayo 80's Style
Cat Club
1190 Folsom St., San Francisco
9pm - 3am

"Tequila and Coronas on special all night, ay carumba!
Also it's Footloose movie night.
Dress like the 80's and get in free until 11pm!"

Art, Jazz & Fashion 5/4

Just because holidays fall in the middle of the week doesn't mean you can't celebrate them. Cinco De Mayo is tomorrow and there's plenty of things happening throughout the day. Plan ahead with the BayScope calendar to prepare for a night  of celebration and partying. And if tomorrow is too far away, start the fun with today's events.


Wine & Jazz on Fillmore
1300 Fillmore St., San Francisco
4:30pm - 8:30pm

"Join us for a wonderful evening out in SF's Historic Fillmore Jazz District. Female vocalist/songwriter NaJe will be joined by some of the Bay Area's finest jazz musicians from 6:30 - 8:30 and $5 Wine Happy Hour from 5:30 to 8. Please RSVP to this Facebook event to receive 10% off dinner in the restaurant. Call ahead to reserve a table as space is limited."


18th Annual Artists Warehouse Sale
Building A, Fort Mason Center, San Francisco
6pm -9pm

"A huge selection of original artworks at a savings of up to 75 percent! Two venues with over 7,000 square feet filled with art: your first chance to purchase art by more than three hundred artists at incredible savings! Preview sale tickets: $10 at the door; free for SFMOMA members."

Glamour Days Fashion Show
California Historical Society
678 Mission St., San Francisco
6:30pm - 10:30pm

There's just something about fashion from the 40's! This is definitely something you'll want to RSVP to. Check out this fashion show from the 40's and get inspired for some new styles. Doors are open at 6:30 and the show starts right at 7 so being there early for a seat is a high priority. Stay around and you can party at the after party.


Karaoke Night at Pandora
Pandora Karaoke & Bar
177 Eddy St., San Francisco
9pm - 2am

It's Karaoke Night with DJ Allier at the Pandora! Enjoy drink specials and private rooms to sing your heart out! Bring friends because Karaoke has always been better with an audience. There's no cover for the event which is great, and there's street parking which, for San Francisco, makes it better. Also, for the 21+ crowd. And as they say on all alcoholic commercials, Please Drink Responsibly.

Music, Movies, & Dance 5/3

It's Tuesday. Keep in mind $5 movies t Jack London Squre in Oakland and free open mic at the Starry Plough in Berkeley. Aside from that there's music, movies & latin dance for the rest of us.


Fleet Foxes Listening Party
Amoeba Haight
2455 Telegraph Ave., Berkeley
5pm - 8pm

"Fleet Foxes are releasing their new album Helplessness Blues on Tuesday, May 3. Come by Amoeba Berkeley between 5:00pm and 8:00pm that day to hear the new album and pick up a copy. Get a limited edition silk screened poster (while supplies last) when you purchase Helplessness Blues during the listening party 5-8pm."

And Enter to Win a Vinyl LP copy of Helplessness Blues or a prize pack with Sub Pop items




Free Screening - Blazing Saddles
Cafe Royale
800 Post St., San Francisco
9pm - 11pm

"The Ultimate Western Spoof. A town where everyone seems to be named Johnson is in the way of the railroad. In order to grab their land, Hedley Lemar, a politically connected nasty person, sends in his henchmen to make the town unlivable. After the sheriff is killed, the town demands a new sheriff from the Governor. Hedley convinces him to send the town the first Black sheriff in the west. Starring Cleavon Little, Gene Wilder, Slim Pickens, Harvey Korman, Madeline Kahn, and a cast of thousands."



Mucho Axé & Palavra Latin Brazilian Show
Elbo Room
647 Valencia St., San Francisco
9:30pm - 12:30am

doors at 9pm $8
9:30 Palavra, Brazilian Funk Fusion, highly energetic and groovy blend
10:30 Mucho Axé Original Latin pop & Roots, playing Salsa, Cumbia, Boogaloo Samba & Reggae
our Cd Time is Art available for $10

Bagels, Films & Authors 5/2

The weather this past weekend was perfect! If you stayed inside, don't worry because it looks like today won't be half bad either. Here are a few things to keep you occupied today.


Free Bagel Mondays
La Victoria Bakery
24th St. & Mission, San Francisco
8am - 3pm

"There’s a lot of kind-hearted folks in this city by the bay but is in the pantheon of kind folks.Danny Gabriner of La Victoria Bakery. Every Monday, he bakes and then gives away hundreds of free bagels on 24th and Mission. The giveaway starts at 8am Mondays and the handmade and boiled bagels usually runs out by 3pm."



54th SF International Film Festival
Sundance Kabuki 8 Cinema
San Francisco
1pm - 11pm


"The San Francisco International Film Festival (April 21–May 5) opens its 54th year with an exhilarating lineup of films from around the world and an inspired variety of accompanying festivities. Highly anticipated by its loyal and passionate audiences, championed by civic and community leaders, admired by filmmakers and closely watched by industry professionals, it is one of the most important events on the Bay Area cultural calendar and an important stop on the international festival circuit."


Meet the Author - Jackson Holtz
Books Inc
1760 4th St., Berkeley
7pm - 9pm


"JACKSON HOLTZ discusses Fly, Colton, Fly: The True Story of the Barefoot Bandit, a page-turning account of the life story, extraordinary crimes, and ultimate arrest of Colton Harris-Moore, the 19-year-old Barefoot Bandit who captured the nation's attention with his hijinks."

Street Fairs & Festivals 5/1

SUNDAY

Norway Day Festival 2011
Fort Mason Center
Buchanan St., & Marina Blvd, San Francisco
10am - 5pm


"The largest Norwegian festival in the United States, showcasing the best of Norwegian culture, food and music. Nearly 5,000 people attend the weekend event. A family-friendly festival with two stages of live entertainment, cooking demonstrations, local vendors selling Norwegian crafts, clothing, food, and art. There are plenty of activities for kids as well, including a jumpy house, dog petting area, ice skating, sing-alongs, arts and crafts, and games. "

$12 at door
Kids ages 4-12 are $3
Kids under 3 are free


Cinco de Mayo 2011
2345 Fruitvale Ave, Oakland
11am - 5pm

"This years’ 5 de Mayo celebration will take place on International Blvd from 35th Ave. on through to Fruitvale, up Fruitvale Ave on to E. 17th St. The event will be filled with a dynamic collection of renowned musicians & dancers on three stages, a parade featuring a “Banda de Guerra” military marching band & Charros on horseback. Local food vendors and restaurants will serve up their flavorful delights from all around the world. Get to know local businesses in our community booths and if you’ve got kids, we’ve got that covered too! Our Kid Zone will be filled with exciting activities for children of all ages."



12th Annual How Weird Street Fair
111 Minna Gallery, San Francisco
12pm - 2pm

"Nine city blocks filled with eight stages of world-class electronic music, art and performances, vendors from around the world, tasty food and drinks, and all the colorful weirdness that San Francisco is famous for. All ages are welcome, and costumes are highly encouraged. There is a requested donation of $10 for the faire, which buys a Magic Sticker that is potentially worth many times more, with discounts at the faire bars and after-parties, as well as specials at many of the vendors."