Stay Up to Date on the East Bay Market
Simone Spotlight | Selling your House During the Holiday Season VS the Spring
Many homeowners and real estate agents believe the best time to sell real estate is in the spring. Here are reasons why the holiday season may be a goos time for you to sell and why buyers choose to purchase during this time.
Selling your House During the Holiday
Season VS the Spring
DECEMBER 11th
BENEFITS TO SELLING YOUR HOME DURING THE HOLIDAYS
Many homeowners and real estate agents believe the best time to sell real estate is in the spring. After all, many people hunker down during the winter or are too busy with the holidays to think about buying a new home. Buyers often like to start shopping in the spring to make sure they are settled in their homes before the start of a new school year.
But the winter holiday season does have its benefits for home selling as well. So if you can't wait until the weather warms up to get your house on the market, you can take advantage of some of winter's unique upsides.
Lower Housing Inventory
Conventional wisdom says you should wait until the spring to get the most from a home sale. After all, there are generally more buyers in the spring with warmer weather. More competition can lead to price wars, and homes can sell faster and for higher prices than during the winter.
As a result, serious buyers won't have as many homes from which to choose, so there's more time for them to focus on yours. Furthermore, the limited range of options available to buyers means you may be able to command a higher price.
More Serious Buyers
But if your house is up for sale in the winter and someone is looking at it, chances are that person is serious and ready to buy. Anyone shopping for a new home between Thanksgiving and New Year’s is likely going to be a serious buyer. Putting your home on the market at this time of year and attracting a serious buyer can often result in a quicker sale.
That Warm and Cozy Feeling
The holidays are often a time when people gather around fireplaces, drink hot chocolate, and bake cakes and cookies. Homeowners who put their houses up for sale during the winter months can take advantage of these traditions as they stage their house. You can leverage holiday decorations for both curb appeal and to create a cozy interior.
Festive Neighborhoods Are Inviting
One of the staples of the holiday months is that many people adorn their homes with festive lights and decorations. That is also true of local communities where lights, wreaths, and other holiday decorations can add charm.
People purchasing a home during that time may see the neighborhood as festive and cheerful. So they may be more willing to consider an area that they would want to live.
Year-End Job Transfers
The end of the year is typically the time when people get notified they will be moving because of a job transfer. Perhaps an offer comes through from another company that's just too good to pass up.
Those people are going to need a home sooner rather than later and, as a result, they'll be hunting for a new home during the holidays. These buyers can’t wait for spring, which is one reason why listing during the holidays can get the home sold more quickly.
End-of-Year Tax Breaks
Reducing the property tax bill may not be the main reason buyers purchase a new home, but it could be why serious buyers make a move during the holidays. That’s because buyers can deduct the mortgage interest, property taxes, and interest costs of the loan if a sale closes on or before Dec. 31.
Recent tax laws limit the deduction, but the tax benefits could still prompt a buyer to move during the holidays instead of waiting until spring.
WHY BUYERS PURCHASE A HOME DURING THE HOLIDAYS
There are certain advantages buyers have when purchasing a home during the holiday season. Here are some of those advantages:
1. Less competition
The off-season typically sees fewer buyers in the market. With many potential buyers waiting for the warmer months or the new year, you’ll likely face less competition. This means fewer offers being made leading to less bidding wars.
2. Motivated sellers
A house listed in the off-season often belongs to sellers who have more of an urgency to sell. This could be due to several reasons, such as relocating for a job, financial needs, or other life changes that makes selling their home in the off season the best or only solution. As a result, these sellers are typically more open to negotiation on terms and price.
3. better deals
Historically, home prices can be lower during the off-season, though you should check out the trends in your local housing market. With fewer buyers and motivated sellers, you might just snag a property at a lower price than you would in the peak season.
4. Faster transactions
With fewer real estate transactions taking place, lenders, inspectors, and appraisers are less busy. This can result in a smoother and faster home-buying process, allowing you to settle into your new home sooner.
East Bay Weekly Events
Immerse yourself in the enchantment of the Grand Menorah Lighting. 🕎
#FestivalOfLights ✨
The East Bay Weekly Events are listed below.
Your Weekly Guide to Local Events
DECEMBER 8-14
Immerse yourself in the enchantment of the Grand Menorah Lighting. 🕎
#FestivalOfLights ✨
The East Bay Weekly Events are listed below.
Friday 12/8
8:30am Oakland Chamber of Commerce Leadership Oakland Session 3
10am 510families Wee Play: Drop-In Playtime
10:30am Visit Oakland Fairyland Toddler Storytime
11am FunCheap Laurel Burch Studios 2023 Holiday Sale & Celebration
11am The Good Life Let's Get Moving - Cardio/Strength
11am 510families Christmas Tours at the Patterson House for Families
12pm 510families Visit with Wildlife
1pm Oakland Public Library Mandela Partners Produce Stand
1pm The Good Life Let's Get Moving - Stretch/Strength
3pm Oakland Public Library The Bike Fix
3pm 510families Holiday On The Plaza
4pm 510families Shabbanukkah at the Farm (RSVP)
5pm Oakland Zoo Glowfari
5pm Jack London Square BRIDGEGOOD'S ANNUAL FUNDRAISER EVENT
5:15pm 510families Cinema Under The Stars
6:30pm Eventbrite Walk with Spirits, A Haunted Pub Crawl
7pm The Mercury News Cinderella Enchanted
7pm Visit Oakland WE ARE OAKLAND Holiday Concert
7:30pm FunCheap East Bay Bike Party
7:30pm 510families Free Telescope Viewings
7:30pm Chabot Space & Science Center FREE TELESCOPE VIEWINGS
7:30pm Eventbrite Thai Massage & Conscious Touch Workshop
8pm Comedy Oakland Comedy Oakland at The Washington Inn
8pm Eventbrite Berkeley Comedy Co-op
Saturday 12/9
8am Eventbrite Brothers Code 2023
10am Oakland Zoo Veterinary Hospital Tours
10am 510families Breakfast with Santa (RSVP)
10am 510families Carquinez Model Railroad Society Open House
10am Alameda County Fair GREAT TRAIN SHOW
10:30am 510families Creature Feature: Meet Animals
10:30am 510families Outdoor Family Storytime
10:30am Chabot Space & Science Center FAMILY NATURE ADVENTURES: FANTASTIC FUNGI FUN
10:30am Oakland Public Library Family Storytime
11am FunCheap Laurel Burch Studios 2023 Holiday Sale & Celebration
11am 510families Family Time
12pm 510families Santa on Solano Ave.
12pm 510families Selfies with Santa Claus
12pm Jack London Square FREE SELFIES WITH SANTA
12pm Oakland Museum of California MEMBER GALLERY CHATS AT OMCA
12pm Oakland Public Library 5th Year Anniversary of the Friends-Stewards of AAMLO
1pm Fourth Street Holiday Craft Market
1pm The Mercury News Cinderella Enchanted
1pm Oakland Museum of California GALLERY CHATS AT OMCA
2pm 510families Fun at the Farm
2pm Visit Oakland Outdoor Wine Tasting
2:30pm Oakland Public Library Kimchi Making Demo with Volcano Kimchi! Volcano Kimchi
3pm Oakland Public Library Teen Game Day @ 81st Ave // Dia de Juegos para Adolescentes
5pm Oakland Zoo Glowfari
5:15pm 510families Free Outdoor Xmas Movie
7pm The Mercury News Cinderella Enchanted
7:30pm 510families Free Telescope Viewings
7:30pm Chabot Space & Science Center FREE TELESCOPE VIEWINGS
7:30pm Eventbrite LAND AND SEA/TIMELESS PRESENT- A DINNER WITH CHEF SCOTT WINEGARD
8pm Comedy Oakland Comedy Oakland at Calabash
Sunday 12/10
9am Montclair Village Montclair Village Sunday Farmers’ Market
10am 510families Carquinez Model Railroad Society Open House
10am 510families Donuts & Dreidels
10am The Mercury News FAMILY PROGRAM: HOLIDAY CRAFTS FROM NATURE
10am Alameda County Fair GREAT TRAIN SHOW
11am 510families Christmas Tours at the Patterson House for Families
11am FunCheap Laurel Burch Studios 2023 Holiday Sale & Celebration
11am Jack London Square JACK LONDON SQUARE FARMER'S MARKET
12pm Drake’s Brewing S’MORES & STOUTS
12pm 510families Kids’ Holiday Celebration
12pm 510families Model Trains at the Golden State Model Railroad Museum
12pm 510families Santa on Solano Ave.
12pm 510families Selfies with Santa Claus
12pm 510families Stroll-ish, WINTER
12pm Jack London Square FREE SELFIES WITH SANTA
1pm Alameda County Fair Fresh Cut Christmas Trees
2pm The Mercury News Cinderella Enchanted
2pm Visit Oakland Make a Holiday Themed Flower Crown Headdress
2pm Oakland Public Library Puzzle Challenge - Winter Edition
3pm Black Cultural Zone SHOP & SKATE AT LIBERATION PARK
3:30pm 510families Grand Menorah Lighting – Chabad Alameda
4pm 510families Broadway Plaza Menorah Lighting
5pm Oakland Zoo Glowfari
5:30pm Eventbrite Kelly Park BIG Band with Shawn Ryan
7:30pm Chabot Space & Science Center LASER AFTER HOURS: QUEENS OF POP
Monday 12/11
9am The Good Life Mindful Mondays with Iya Kemi
9:30am 510families Together Wee Play Drop-In
10am 510families Wee Play: Drop-In Playtime
11am The Good Life Let's Get Moving - Moves and Grooves
5pm Oakland Zoo Glowfari
Tuesday 12/12
9:30am 510families Together Wee Play Drop-In
10am Berkeley Public Library Gentle Yoga @North
11am The Good Life Let's Get Moving - Pilates
12pm 510families Visit with Wildlife
4pm Oakland Public Library Family Game Night @ 81st Ave // Noche De Juegos en Familia
5pm Oakland Zoo Glowfari
Wednesday 12/13
9am The Good Life Brothas Building Brothas - Barbershop Talk
9:30am 510families Together Wee Play Drop-In
10am 510families Wee Play: Drop-In Playtime
10:30am 510families Story Time on the Lawn
11am The Good Life Let's Get Moving - Cardio/Strength
5pm Oakland Zoo Glowfari
5:30pm Berkeley Public Library Movie Night @Claremont
6pm Drake’s Brewing DUNGEONS & DRAKE’S
7:30pm Visit Oakland Wednesday Game Night
11:45pm Chabot Space & Science Center GEMINIDS METEOR SHOWER VIEWING
Thursday 12/14
9am The Good Life Brothas Building Brothas - Let's Get Movin' Brothas
9:30am 510families Together Wee Play Drop-In
11am The Good Life Let's Get Cooking
2:30pm Berkeley Public Library Super Cinema
5pm 510families Santa Visits
5pm 510families South Shore Menorah Lighting
5pm Oakland Zoo Glowfari
5:30pm Berkeley Public Library Family Game Night @North
6pm Visit Oakland Twas the Night Before Fairy Winterland
8pm Comedy Oakland Comedy Oakland at The Washington Inn
Simone Spotlight | Holiday Season Events in the East Bay
We are in the holiday season and here are some great family events taking place in the month of December to enjoy with your family.
We are excited for the holiday season and we want to wish everyone a wonderful and memorable holiday!
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East Bay Weekly Events
Join the luminous spectacle of the 47th Annual Lighted Yacht Parade!
The East Bay Weekly Events are listed below.
Your Weekly Guide to Local Events
DECEMBER 1-7
Join the luminous spectacle of the 47th Annual Lighted Yacht Parade!
The East Bay Weekly Events are listed below.
Friday 12/1
11am The Good Life Let's Get Moving - Cardio/Strength
11am 510families Christmas Tours at the Patterson House for Families
1pm The Good Life Let's Get Moving - Stretch/Strength
1pm Oakland Public Library Mandela Partners Produce Stand
3pm Oakland Public Library The Bike Fix
5pm Oakland Zoo Glowfari
5pm Visit Oakland First Friday: "Frosty Friday"
5pm Visit Oakland First Friday Street Festival
5pm 510families Oakland First Fridays: Family-friendly Street Party
5pm Black Cultural Zone BCZ 2ND ANNUAL GUMBO FESTIVAL, PARTNER MIXER & AKOMA HOLIDAY MARKET
5:15pm 510families Free Outdoor Xmas Movie
5:30pm Eventbrite 2023 End of Year Party
5:30pm 510families It’s a Wonderful Night
5:30pm 510families Tree Lighting & Car-Free Holiday Parade
5:30pm 510families Tree Lighting Ceremony
6pm 510families Holiday Light Up the Night
6pm Chabot Space & Science Center FIRST FRIDAY: LIGHT UP THE NIGHT
7pm Eventbrite HellaSecret Speakeasy Comedy & Cocktail Night
7pm Eventbrite Japanese Vegan Family Style Feast w/ lots of yuzu
7pm The Mercury News Cinderella Enchanted
7:30pm Chabot Space & Science Center FREE TELESCOPE VIEWINGS
8pm Comedy Oakland Comedy Oakland at The Washington Inn
8pm Eventbrite Berkeley Comedy Co-op
8pm Eventbrite Midnight Brunch/Karaoke
9pm Eventbrite HellaSecret Speakeasy Comedy & Cocktail Night
Saturday 12/2
10am Oakland Zoo Veterinary Hospital Tours
10:30am Berkeley Public Library Family Story Time @Central CCR
10:30am Oakland Public Library Family Storytime
11am Eventbrite Oakland - Brunch Tour
11am Eventbrite Girl Gang Craft Holiday Craft Fair (Oakland)
12pm Visit Oakland GIFTY 2023: A Holiday Celebration of Local Creative Culture
12pm Oakland Public Library The Bike Fix
12pm 510families Santa on Solano Ave.
12pm Eventbrite Day Thinking Trivia Brunch
1pm Eventbrite Yoni Yoga: Sensual Movement
1pm Fourth Street Puppets & Popcorn - Fratello Marionette Shows
1pm Berkeley Public Library Urban Cycling 101 @North
3pm Oakland Public Library Teen Game Day @ 81st Ave // Dia de Juegos para Adolescentes
3pm 510families Holiday Tree Lighting & Santa
3:30pm 510families Light Up the Season
4:30pm 510families Light up the Night
4:30pm Visit Oakland Piedmont Avenue Tree Lighting
5pm Oakland Zoo Glowfari
5pm 510families Holiday Parade & Tree Lighting
5:15pm 510families Free Outdoor Xmas Movie
5:30pm Jack London Square THE 47TH ANNUAL LIGHTED YACHT PARADE
5:45pm Jack London Square HOLIDAY TREE LIGHTING
7pm Eventbrite HellaSecret Speakeasy Comedy & Cocktail Night
7pm Eventbrite Open Mic
7pm The Mercury News Cinderella Enchanted
7:30pm Chabot Space & Science Center FREE TELESCOPE VIEWINGS
8pm Comedy Oakland Comedy Oakland at The Washington Inn
8pm Visit Oakland Nuthouse at the Golden Squirrel
8pm Comedy Oakland Comedy Oakland at Calabash
9pm Eventbrite HellaSecret Speakeasy Comedy & Cocktail Night
10pm Eventbrite ISSA VIBE
Sunday 12/3
9am Montclair Village Montclair Village Sunday Farmers’ Market
11am Jack London Square JACK LONDON SQUARE FARMER'S MARKET
11am FunCheap Oakland Museum of California’s Free First Sundays
11am The Mercury News Annual Holiday Mercado
11am 510families Christmas Tours at the Patterson House for Families
12pm 510families Santa on Solano Ave.
12pm Drake’s Brewing S’MORES & STOUTS
12pm The Mercury News OPC COMMUNITY MUSIC DAY!
12pm Eventbrite Goth Yoga
1pm Eventbrite Join us every Sunday for our Signature Brunch
2pm Visit Oakland Make a Holiday Themed Flower Crown Headdress
2pm Oakland Public Library Puzzle Challenge - Winter Edition
2pm The Mercury News Cinderella Enchanted
2pm The Mercury News Live Music in the Cellar! at Dashe Cellars
2:30pm Eventbrite Intro to Taiko: The Art of Traditional Japanese Drumming (song: Kenka end)
3:30pm 510families Holiday Tree Lighting
4:30pm Eventbrite Reset & Renew - Restorative Yoga + Sound Healing
4:30pm 510families It’s a Wonderful Life Holiday Celebration
5pm Oakland Zoo Glowfari
6pm Eventbrite Rare Scotch Whisky Tasting Experience - Oakland
7pm Eventbrite Stand-Up Comedy at Nido's Backyard In Jack London Sq.
8pm Eventbrite Butter OAK
9pm Eventbrite Jush Sundays! Drag Cabaret hosted by Jasmine Masters
Monday 12/4
9am The Good Life Mindful Mondays with Iya Kemi
11am The Good Life Let's Get Moving - Moves and Grooves
5pm Oakland Zoo Glowfari
7:30pm The Mercury News CHRISTMAS WITH THE CELTS
9pm Eventbrite MONDAYS AT ZANZI - Amapiano | Afrohouse | Afrobeats
Tuesday 12/5
10am Berkeley Public Library Gentle Yoga @North
10:15am Oakland Public Library Fall Stay & Play
10:15am Oakland Public Library Storytime and Playtime
11am The Good Life Let's Get Moving - Pilates
4pm Oakland Public Library Family Game Night @ 81st Ave // Noche De Juegos en Familia
5pm Oakland Zoo Glowfari
6pm Drake’s Brewing TRIVIA NIGHT AT DRAKE’S DEALERSHIP
Wednesday 12/6
9am The Good Life Brothas Building Brothas - Barbershop Talk
10am Oakland Zoo Veterinary Hospital Tours
11am The Good Life Let's Get Moving - Cardio/Strength
11am Oakland Public Library Chair Yoga
3pm Oakland Public Library Teen Hangout // Pasa Tiempo de Adolescentes
3:30pm Oakland Public Library Family Yoga
5pm Oakland Zoo Glowfari
5:30pm Berkeley Public Library Movie Night @Claremont
6pm Drake’s Brewing GATHER STUDIO & EVENTS: HOLIDAY WREATHS
6pm Drake’s Brewing TRIVIA NIGHT AT DRAKE’S BARREL HOUSE
8pm Visit Oakland Nuthouse at the Golden Squirrel
Thursday 12/7
9am The Good Life Brothas Building Brothas - Let's Get Movin' Brothas
10am The Good Life Stress Busters!
10:30am Berkeley Public Library Story Time on the Lawn @North
11am The Good Life Let's Get Cooking
2:30pm Berkeley Public Library Super Cinema
4pm 510families 21st Annual Montclair Village Holiday Stroll
5pm Montclair Village Holiday Stroll 2023
5:30pm Berkeley Public Library Family Game Night @West
5pm Oakland Zoo Glowfari
7pm Montclair Village Montclair Neighborhood Council /Montclair Organized Neighborhood Leaders Monthly Public Meeting
8pm Comedy Oakland Comedy Oakland at The Washington Inn
Simone Spotlight | The East Bay Christmas Tree Farms
We are in the holiday season and if you haven’t put up your tree yet, here is a list of the East Bay Christmas Tree farms where you can pick up your family’s Christmas tree.
We are excited for the holiday season and we want to wish everyone a wonderful and memorable holiday!
The East Bay Christmas Tree Farms
november 27th
Berkeley
East Bay Nursery offers your pick of evergreens: living and cut trees, garlands, wreaths, and that natural piney smell along with a festive Christmas Shoppe filled with all the trimmings.
Dates & Time: November 24th - December 23rd | Monday - Sunday | 8:30 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Located: 2332 San Pablo Ave, Berkeley, CA
Berkeley Bowl they are fully stocked with Christmas trees. Pick up a tree with your groceries and be done.
Located: 2020 Oregon St Berkeley, CA & 920 Heinz Ave Berkeley, CA
Cal Forestry Club offers a popular tree sale in early December, which raises funds for the club to attend conferences, go on field-tours, and build a forestry community at Berkeley. Cost is $10 per foot.
Dates & Time: Sunday, December 3 | 8 a.m. - 6 p.m. & December 4 - 6 | 2 p.m. - 6 p.m.
Located: By Mulford Hall on UC Berkeley's campus | 130 Hilgard Way Berkeley, CA
Outdoor Supply Hardware has live and artificial trees as well as holiday decor.
Dates & Time: Monday - Saturday | 7 a.m. - 7 p.m. & Sunday | 8 a.m. - 6 p.m.
Located: 1025 Ashby Ave Berkeley, CA
CASTRO VALLEY
Castro Valley Christmas Tree Farm has a variety of trees grown on the farm and are available for cutting, which makes them the freshest trees possible.
Dates & Time: Friday - Sunday | 8 a.m. - 4:45 p.m.
Located: 7001 Miller Rd Castro Valley, CA
DIXON
Silveyville Christmas Tree Farm is halfway to Sacramento, but it is the full festive experience, and worth the drive. They have a Christmas boutique, concession stand that’s open on the weekends, a fire pit, and perhaps most importantly, goats.
Dates & Time: Monday & Wednesday - Sunday | 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. Closed Tuesdays.
Located: 6248 Silveyville Road Dixon, CA
EL CERRITO
Delancey Street Trees supports the community in a positive way. Find mistletoe, indoor tree lights, decorated wreaths, living potted pines, tree removal bags, and water bowls. No frills.
Located: 10496 San Pablo Blvd El Cerrito, CA
Home Depot El Cerrito carries a variety of Christmas trees, as well as loads of lights, decorations, and that tree stand you’ve been meaning to replace. Pro Tip: If you wait until Christmas Eve, you can get a tree for super cheap (sometimes free!).
Dates & Time: Monday - Saturday | 6 a.m. - 9 p.m. & Sunday | 7 a.m. - 8 p.m.
Located: 11939 San Pablo Ave El Cerrito, CA
LIVERMORE
Moore Pumpkins and Christmas Trees in San Ramon and Livermore has been providing East Bay Area families with trees since 1984. They offer Silver Tip, Noble Fir, and Nordmann fir trees at both locations ranging from three to 24 feet in height, with the option of flocked trees in Livermore. If you’re looking for extra holiday greenery, they also sell wreaths and garlands.
Dates & Time: Monday - Thursday | 12 P.M. - 7 p.m. & Friday - Sunday | 10 a.m. - 8 p.m.
Located: 19901 San Ramon Valley Blvd San Ramon, CA or 2180 Cayetano Ct Livermore, CA
Oakland
Brent’s Christmas Trees is conveniently located across from the Grand Lake Theater.
Dates & Time: November 18th - December 24th | 9 a.m. - 9 p.m.
Located: 503 Lake Park Way, across from the Grand Lake Theater Oakland, CA
Delancey Street Tree in Temescal & Trestle Glen carry mistletoe, indoor tree lights, decorated wreaths, living potted pines, tree removal bags and water bowls for trees. Flame retardant is also available.
Located: 5601 Telegraph Ave. & 3600 Park Blvd Oakland, CA
Wonderland Trees Christmas Tree on Bay Street in Emeryville is a great way to spend a day with your family. Purchase your tree after a day of fun along with your holiday shopping.
Dates: Opened on Black Friday, November 24th
Located: Bay Street Shopping Center | 5600 Shellmound St Emeryville, CA
Castro Valley Christmas Tree Farm offers many kinds of trees that you can choose and cut yourself. Enjoy an old-fashioned walk in the woods in the East Bay hills. Credit cards are allowed this year. They sold out by early December last year, so go early!
Dates & Time: Friday - Sunday | 8 a.m. - 4:45 p.m.
Located: 7001 Miller Rd Castro Valley, CA
Piedmont Scout Tree Lot is a great way to support the Scouts! Their online store is open for orders. The tree lot is open at Coaches Field.
Dates & Time: Monday – Friday | 4 p.m. – 8 p.m. & Saturday | 9 a.m. – 7 p.m. & Sunday | 9 a.m. – 7 p.m.
Located: 898 Red Rock Road at 890 Moraga Ave Piedmont, CA
Speer Family Farms has a variety of trees, services, you can purchase online and they will deliver.
Dates & Time: Monday – Sunday | 11 a.m. – 9 p.m.
Located: 2453 Hancock St Alameda, CA
Richmond
Richmond ABC Tree Farms is part of a large chain of Christmas tree lots with four locations in the East Bay (San Lorenzo, Concord, Antioch). Delivery and flocking are available.
Dates & Time: November 18th - 22nd until December 24th or until sold out.
Located: 2200 Hilltop Mall Road, Richmond, CA
WALNUT CREEK
Toby's Christmas Trees are cut and harvested just days before shipping. They sell Christmas Trees, Wreaths, Garland. They are a full service business with Flocking, Fire Retarding and Delivery as part of the customer options. The choice of Christmas Trees are Noble Fir, Douglas Fir, Nordman, Grand Fir and Silver Tip.
Dates & Time: Monday - Sunday | 9 a.m. - 9 p.m.
Located in: Heather Farm Community Center | 301 N San Carlos Dr Walnut Creek, CA
East Bay Weekly Events
Experience the amazing adventure with Blippi on his Wonderful World Tour!
The East Bay Weekly Events are listed below.
Your Weekly Guide to Local Events
november 24-30
Experience the amazing adventure with Blippi on his Wonderful World Tour!
The East Bay Weekly Events are listed below.
Friday 11/24
10:30am Visit Oakland Fairyland Toddler Storytime
11am The Good Life Let's Get Moving - Cardio/Strength
1pm The Good Life Let's Get Moving - Stretch/Strength
1pm Oakland Public Library Mandela Partners Produce Stand
4pm 510families Holiday Tree Lighting Festivities
4:30pm 510families Santa Lights the Square
5pm Oakland Zoo Glowfari
5:15pm 510families Free Outdoor Xmas Movie
6pm 510families Niles Festival of Lights Parade
6:30pm Eventbrite Sip & Step
7pm Eventbrite HellaSecret Speakeasy Comedy & Cocktail Night
7pm The Mercury News Cinderella Enchanted
7:30pm Chabot Space & Science Center FREE TELESCOPE VIEWINGS
8pm Comedy Oakland Comedy Oakland at The Washington Inn
8pm Eventbrite Midnight Brunch/Karaoke
9pm Eventbrite HellaSecret Speakeasy Comedy & Cocktail Night
Saturday 11/25
7am Eventbrite Volunteer w/Uhuru Foods & Pies @ the Grand Lake Farmers Market
9am Visit Oakland Grand Lake Farmers Market
10am Oakland Zoo Veterinary Hospital Tours
10:30am Berkeley Public Library Fratello Marionettes' Jack and the Beanstalk @THP South
10:30am Oakland Public Library Family Storytime
11am Eventbrite HIIT & Run
11am Oakland Public Library Family Time
12pm Drake’s Brewing CRAFTS & DRAFTS
1pm Oakland Museum of California GALLERY CHATS AT OMCA
1pm Fourth Street Caroling
1pm The Mercury News Cinderella Enchanted
1pm Fourth Street Saturdays with Santa
1pm Eventbrite Yoni Yoga: Sensual Movement
3pm Oakland Public Library Teen Game Day @ 81st Ave // Dia de Juegos para Adolescentes
5pm Oakland Zoo Glowfari
5:15pm 510families Free Outdoor Xmas Movie
5:30pm 510families Main Street Tree Lighting
6pm Chabot Space & Science Center FAMILY ASTRONOMY: THE MOON AND TIDES
7pm Eventbrite HellaSecret Speakeasy Comedy & Cocktail Night
7pm Eventbrite Open Mic
7pm The Mercury News Cinderella Enchanted
7:30pm Chabot Space & Science Center FREE TELESCOPE VIEWINGS
7:30pm Visit Oakland "Challenge Tonight" Improv Show
8pm Visit Oakland Nuthouse at the Golden Squirrel
8pm Comedy Oakland Comedy Oakland at The Washington Inn
8pm Comedy Oakland Comedy Oakland at Calabash
9pm Eventbrite HellaSecret Speakeasy Comedy & Cocktail Night
10pm Eventbrite (Afrobeats in Oakland) Ginger
Sunday 11/26
11am The Mercury News JACK LONDON SQUARE INVITES THE COMMUNITY TO A WEEKLY OPEN-AIR MARKET
11am 510families Nutcracker Sweet with the Puppet Company
12pm Drake’s Brewing S’MORES & STOUTS
12pm 510families Model Trains at the Golden State Model Railroad Museum
12pm The Mercury News Drag Yourself to Brunch at the Alameda Comedy Club
1pm Eventbrite Join us every Sunday for our Signature Brunch
2pm Oakland Public Library Puzzle Challenge - Winter Edition
3pm Black Cultural Zone SHOP & SKATE AT LIBERATION PARK
3pm Eventbrite Salsa by the Bay Sundays at Building 43 in Alameda
5pm Oakland Zoo Glowfari
7pm Eventbrite Stand-Up Comedy at Nido's Backyard In Jack London Sq.
8pm Eventbrite Butter OAK
Monday 11/27
9am The Good Life Mindful Mondays with Iya Kemi
9am 510families Visit the Little Farm
11am The Good Life Let's Get Moving - Moves and Grooves
6:30pm 510families Evening Family Storytime
7pm FunCheap 1/2 Off Oysters + Monday Night HellaFunny Comedy Show (Oakland)
7pm FunCheap Monday Night Blues (Oakland)
9pm Eventbrite MONDAYS AT ZANZI - Amapiano | Afrohouse | Afrobeats
Tuesday 11/28
8am 510families Explore Blake Garden
9am The Good Life GivingTuesday Live - Together We Grow
10am Berkeley Public Library Gentle Yoga @North
10am Oakland Chamber of Commerce Community Impact Committee Meeting
10:15am Oakland Public Library Fall Stay & Play
11am The Good Life Let's Get Moving - Pilates
11am The Mercury News Taco Tuesday at Tipsy Putt East Bay
12pm 510families Visit with Wildlife
4pm Oakland Public Library Family Game Night @ 81st Ave // Noche De Juegos en Familia
6pm Eventbrite $1 Margaritas + Disco Taco Tuesday
7pm FunCheap Trivia Night + All-Night Happy Hour at Plank (Oakland)
8pm FunCheap Tuesday Trivia Night at Nigh Heron (Oakland)
Wednesday 11/29
9am The Good Life Brothas Building Brothas - Barbershop Talk
9am 510families Free Hour at Japanese Tea Garden
9:40am The Mercury News Kindergym-Fall Sessions
10am Oakland Zoo Veterinary Hospital Tours
10:15am 510families Storytime in the Park
10:30am 510families Story Time on the Lawn
11am The Good Life Let's Get Moving - Cardio/Strength
3:30pm Oakland Public Library Family Yoga
4:30pm 510families Indoor Tree Lighting with Santa & Carolers
5pm Oakland Zoo Glowfari
5:30pm Berkeley Public Library Movie Night @Claremont
Thursday 11/30
8am 510families Explore Blake Garden
9am The Good Life Brothas Building Brothas - Let's Get Movin' Brothas
9:40am The Mercury News Kindergym-Fall Sessions
11am The Good Life Let's Get Cooking
11:30am Oakland Public Library Community Connections
12pm Eventbrite Bay Area African Restaurant Week 2023
2:30pm Berkeley Public Library Super Cinema
5pm Oakland Zoo Glowfari
5pm Eventbrite THURSDAY NIGHT FOOTBALL
5:30pm 510families Holiday Celebration and Tree Lighting
5:30pm 510families Parade of Lights & Tree Lighting
6pm Visit Oakland Blippi: The Wonderful World Tour
6pm Chabot Space & Science Center ACRYLIC SPACE PAINT & SIP: HOLIDAY EDITION
6:30pm 510families Holiday Tree Lighting
6:30pm Drake’s Brewing PINKY’S PAINTING PARTY
7pm The Mercury News Cinderella Enchanted
7pm Eventbrite Hillside Echoes presents Folk Dancing with Da! Mozhem
7pm FunCheap FREE: “Thirsty Thursday” Oakland Comedy Night w/ All-Night $5 Drink Specials
8pm Comedy Oakland Comedy Oakland at The Washington Inn
Simone Spotlight | What to do with the Thanksgiving Leftovers?
The Simone Koga would like to wish you a safe, happy, and wonderful holiday for you and your family. We love adding value to your lives and please share any Thanksgiving leftover recipes that your family enjoyed!
What to do with the Thanksgiving Leftovers?
november 20th
Thanksgiving is almost here and with it is the question of what to do with the leftovers. So much preparation goes into the meal, but one never really considers what to do with all of the food afterward.
If you are sick of soup, sandwiches, and reheating leftovers, below you will find transformation recipes that will allow you to create something new with your leftovers for a new tradition on what to do with holiday leftovers.
Asian Thanksgiving Fusion
David Chang restaurateur, TV personality, and founder of the Momofuku Restaurant Group uses white bread to create a Thanksgiving leftover egg roll. He believes the food after Thanksgiving is better than Thanksgiving, to see his Thanksgiving leftover recipes you can click here and watch him on his YouTube channel.
Mexican Inspired Transformations
Here are 3 great recipes to give your Thanksgiving leftovers some Mexican food flare:
1. Turkey and black bean quesadilla - Click here for the recipe.
2. Turkey Enchilada recipe - Click here for the recipe.
3. Turkey Carnitas - Click here for the recipe.
CAJUN STYLE LEFTOVERS
Have you ever considered turning your leftovers into Gumbo? The sky’s the limit. This Louisiana-inspired recipe will have you transforming your leftovers into a whole new meal.
Click here for the recipe.
STUFFED FRENCH TOAST
Ever wonder what to do with that cheese platter and cranberry sauce? Well, now you can transform them into an amazing brunch item for the next day.
Transform your leftover brie into stuffed French toast with this recipe. Click here.
BREAKFAST TURKEY FRITTATA
A simple way to transform your leftovers is by making a simple frittata with all of your leftovers. This simple recipe is an easy way to make a hearty breakfast, lunch or snack option without too much effort.
Click here for the recipe.
MORE Recipes FOR Thanksgiving leftover dishes are:
Thanksgiving Turkey and egg noodle soup - Click here for the recipe.
Turkey Curry - Click here for the recipe.
Thanksgiving Leftovers Nachos - Click here for the recipe.
Thanksgiving Leftover Stromboli - Click here for the recipe.
Thanksgiving Pizza - Click here for the recipe.
Thanksgiving Dumplings - Click here for the recipe.
Turkey Chow Mein - Click here for the recipe.
The Simone Koga would like to wish you a safe, happy, and wonderful holiday for you and your family. We love adding value to your lives and please share any Thanksgiving leftover recipes that your family enjoyed!
East Bay Weekly Events
Get ready for a magical adventure with Disney Junior Live On Tour: Costume Palooza at The Fox Theater!
The East Bay Weekly Events are listed below.
Your Weekly Guide to Local Events
november 17-23
Get ready for a magical adventure with Disney Junior Live On Tour: Costume Palooza at The Fox Theater!
The East Bay Weekly Events are listed below.
Friday 11/17
10:30am Berkeley Public Library Jump and Shake Time @THP South
11am The Good Life Let's Get Moving - Cardio/Strength
11:30am The Mercury News Beaujolais Nouveau 2023 Celebration at Left Bank Brasserie in Oakland
12pm 510families Visit with Wildlife
1pm The Good Life Let's Get Moving - Stretch/Strength
1pm Oakland Public Library Mandela Partners Produce Stand
1pm Oakland Public Library Teen Gaming @ KING
2pm Oakland Public Library Teen Gaming @ Main TeenZone
3pm Oakland Public Library The Bike Fix
3pm Oakland Public Library Teen Gaming @ Lakeview
4pm Jack London Square BEAUJOLAIS NOUVEAU 2023
4pm Alameda County Fair MAJOR LEAGUE TABLE TENNIS
5pm Oakland Zoo Glowfari
5pm Visit Oakland Black Cultural Zone: Salsa 'N' Skate
7pm The Mercury News Cinderella Enchanted
7pm Eventbrite HellaSecret Speakeasy Comedy & Cocktail Night
7:30pm The Mercury News BAILA! Community. Dance. Party.
7:30pm Comedy Oakland Comedy Oakland at The Washington Inn
7:30pm Chabot Space & Science Center FREE TELESCOPE VIEWINGS
8pm The Mercury News The Imagination Unleashed - Improv in Downtown Oakland
8pm Eventbrite Midnight Brunch/Karaoke
8pm Eventbrite Comedy Oakland at The Washington Inn
9pm Eventbrite HellaSecret Speakeasy Comedy & Cocktail Night
9:45pm Comedy Oakland Comedy Oakland at The Washington Inn
Saturday 11/18
9:30am Oakland Zoo ZooKids
10am Chabot Space & Science Center CELEBRATING INDIGENOUS PEOPLES
10am Oakland Zoo Veterinary Hospital Tours
11am 510families Family Fun on the Farm
11am Berkeley Public Library Indigenous Storytime: Three Sisters - Corn, Bean and Squash @North
11am Oakland Public Library Family Time
11am Oakland Public Library It's DiNovember Time!
11:30am The Mercury News Beaujolais Nouveau 2023 Celebration at Left Bank Brasserie in Oakland
12pm Oakland Public Library The Bike Fix
12pm Eventbrite Day Thinking Trivia Brunch
1pm Oakland Museum of California GALLERY CHATS AT OMCA
1pm Oakland Public Library Teen UNO Tournament
1:30pm 510families Recreation Swim
3pm Oakland Public Library Teen Game Day @ 81st Ave // Dia de Juegos para Adolescentes
3pm The Mercury News Family Friendly Diwali Celebration with Non Stop Bhangra
4pm Jack London Square BEAUJOLAIS NOUVEAU 2023
4pm Alameda County Fair MAJOR LEAGUE TABLE TENNIS
5pm Oakland Zoo Glowfari
5pm The Mercury News Night Ops: Live Aboard Overnight – Youth Group Overnight Adventure
7pm Comedy Oakland Comedy Oakland at The Washington Inn
7pm The Mercury News Cinderella Enchanted
7:30pm Chabot Space & Science Center FREE TELESCOPE VIEWINGS
8pm Comedy Oakland Comedy Oakland at Calabash
8pm The Mercury News The Imagination Unleashed - Improv in Downtown Oakland
9pm Eventbrite HellaSecret Speakeasy Comedy & Cocktail Night
9:30pm Comedy Oakland Comedy Oakland at The Washington Inn
10pm Evevntbrite SATURDAY NIGHT VYBZ
Sunday 11/19
9am Montclair Village Montclair Village Sunday Farmers’ Market
10am Alameda County Fair EXOTIC BIRD MART
10am Oakland Museum of California SPOTLIGHT SUNDAYS: FILM SCREENING OF MISTY COPELAND’S FLOWER WITH DANCE PERFORMANCE AND PANEL TALK
10:30am The Mercury News Thanksgiving Celebration
11am The Mercury News Universal Drumming Series
11am Jack London Square JACK LONDON SQUARE MARKET
11am Alameda County Fair MAJOR LEAGUE TABLE TENNIS
11:30am The Mercury News Beaujolais Nouveau 2023 Celebration at Left Bank Brasserie in Oakland
1pm 510families Free Sailboat Rides at Cal Sailing Club Open House
2pm Oakland Public Library Puzzle Challenge - Winter Edition
2pm The Mercury News Cinderella Enchanted
3pm Visit Oakland Disney Junior Live On Tour: Costume Palooza at The Fox Theater
4pm Jack London Square BEAUJOLAIS NOUVEAU 2023
5pm Oakland Zoo Glowfari
6pm Eventbrite HellaSecret Speakeasy Comedy & Cocktail Night
6pm The Mercury News Thangs Taken: Rethinking Thanksgiving
7pm Eventbrite Stand-Up Comedy at Nido's Backyard In Jack London Sq.7
7:30pm Chabot Space & Science Center FIRST GLANCE: MEMBER TELESCOPE VIEWING
11pm The Mercury News Sunday FUNDday at Tipsy Putt East Bay with American Cancer Society
Monday 11/20
9am The Good Life Mindful Mondays with Iya Kemi
9am Oakland Zoo Fall Break ZooCamp
9am 510families Visit the Little Farm
11am The Good Life Let's Get Moving - Moves and Grooves
4pm 510families Tot Splash Open Swim
5pm Oakland Zoo Glowfari
7pm FunCheap 1/2 Off Oysters + Monday Night HellaFunny Comedy Show (Oakland)
7pm Eventbrite HellaSecret Speakeasy Comedy & Cocktail Night
9pm Eventbrite MONDAYS AT ZANZI - Amapiano | Afrohouse | Afrobeats
Tuesday 11/21
9am Oakland Zoo Fall Break ZooCamp
10am Berkeley Public Library Gentle Yoga @North
10:30am 510families Hikes for Tykes: Oyster Bay
11am The Good Life Let's Get Moving - Pilates
11am The Mercury News Taco Tuesday at Tipsy Putt East Bay
4pm Oakland Public Library Family Game Night @ 81st Ave // Noche De Juegos en Familia
5pm Oakland Zoo Glowfari
6pm Drake’s Brewing TRIVIA NIGHT AT DRAKE’S DEALERSHIP
7pm Eventbrite HellaSecret Speakeasy Comedy & Cocktail Night
Wednesday 11/22
9am Oakland Zoo Fall Break ZooCamp
9am The Good Life Brothas Building Brothas - Barbershop Talk
10am Oakland Zoo Veterinary Hospital Tours
11am The Good Life Let's Get Moving - Cardio/Strength
3:30pm Oakland Public Library Family Yoga
3:30pm Berkeley Public Library Playdate in the Park @West
5pm Oakland Zoo Glowfari
6pm Drake’s Brewing DUNGEONS & DRAKE’S
6pm Berkeley Public Library Berkeley Repertory Theatre Docent Talk : Harry Clarke
6:30pm Visit Oakland Stand-Up Comedy at Nido's Backyard In Jack London Square
7pm Eventbrite HellaSecret Speakeasy Comedy & Cocktail Night
Thursday 11/23
All day Oakland Turkey Trot Thanksgiving Day
8:30am Visit Oakland Oakland Turkey Trot | Run and Walk | Thanksgiving Day 2023
9am The Good Life Brothas Building Brothas - Let's Get Movin' Brothas
11am The Good Life Let's Get Cooking
11:30am Visit Oakland Thanksgiving Dinner at the Claremont Club & Spa, A Fairmont Hotel
12pm Jack London Square LEFT BANK IN JACK LONDON SQUARE WILL BE CELEBRATING THANKSGIVING 2023!
12pm Visit Oakland Thanksgiving 2023
7pm Eventbrite HellaSecret Speakeasy Comedy & Cocktail Night
Simone Spotlight | How to Budget for the Upcoming Holiday Season
A holiday budget can help you avoid overspending and start the new year off on the right foot. It comes down to making a plan, preparing your finances, and making changes as necessary.
Here is a guide to help you budget and have a great holiday season!
Budgeting During the Holidays
November 13th
We've all felt the pinch of inflation this year, which suggests that this holiday season could be an expensive one.
Planning can help you avoid overspending. Start by preparing early, making your gift list, and determining how much you can reasonably afford. Here's a simple checklist for creating a holiday budget that works for you.
1. Start Early
You still have some time to prep your budget ahead of the holiday season. The first step is estimating what your total holiday spend will be. Looking at what you spent last year is a good place to start. (You can review your bank statements if you're having trouble remembering.) Now look ahead and think about what your financial responsibilities will look like this year.
Like any financial goal, the sooner you start saving, the better. After the holidays are behind you, add up what you spent in all and divide that number by 12. This can be a line item you add to your monthly budget going forward. If you set aside $100 a month, for example, you'll have $1,000 saved by the end of October.
2. List Your Expenses
Holiday expenses usually go beyond gift giving. See if you can ballpark how much you'll spend in each of the following categories:
Gifts: This includes your family, friends, kids' teachers and holiday tips for service providers like babysitters or your mail carrier. Holiday donations go in this category as well.
Decorations: No matter what you celebrate, you'll want to plan ahead for home décor. That might include lights, ornaments, a Christmas tree, lawn decorations and more.
Holiday travel: Whether it's a holiday vacation or round-trip flights to your hometown, holiday travel can add up fast. If you're taking a road trip, don't forget to budget for gas.
Food and entertaining: ‘Tis the season for holiday parties. If you're expecting to play host, you will need to think about food, drinks and if your guests will be chipping in for the festivities. If you plan on attending holiday parties this year, you might also be on the hook for secret Santa or white elephant gift exchanges.
Unpaid time off: This is an especially important point for freelancers and self-employed folks. In the same vein, if this time of year is normally a slow season, being prepared can help you pad your budget.
3. Determine How Much You Can Spend
Once you have a total number in mind, you can build your holiday budget. Begin by looking at how much discretionary income you typically have each month.
When all your bills are paid and you've set aside money for your finance goals, roughly how much do you have left over? You can funnel some of this surplus into your holiday fund. If things feel tight, see if there are any expenses you can trim, either temporarily or permanently. Some ideas include:
Revising your budget to eliminate overspending
Reviewing your subscriptions and memberships
Meal planning and reducing takeout orders
Lowering your utility bills
Refinancing debt
Carpooling or using public transportation
Negotiating lower credit card interest rates
4. Track Your Spending
To help stay on budget and avoid the big, scary January credit card bill, be sure to track your spending —whether you use a credit card, debit card, cash, or any other payment method. There are a few ways to go about it:
Log in to your bank account regularly to review your transactions.
Hold on to your receipts and deduct the totals from your budget as you go.
Keep a note on your phone that shows how much you can spend in each category. Every time you make a holiday purchase, update the numbers.
Opt for a budgeting app that will track your spending for you.
You can tweak your holiday budget along the way if some things end up costing more than you anticipated. That may require you to reduce spending in another area to even things out.
5. Find Other Ways to Free Up Money for the Holidays
If running the numbers for your holiday budget gives you sticker shock, you can look for other ways to save money this holiday season. That might include allocating less to certain categories or removing others altogether. Here are some ideas:
Instead of buying gifts for each one of your friends or family members, see if the group is open to doing a Secret Santa exchange—then you'll only have to buy one gift.
Pare down your gift list, spend less on each gift, or consider homemade gifts.
If hosting a holiday party, opt for a potluck or BYOB setup.
Take advantage of holiday sales like Black Friday and Cyber Monday.
Cut back on holiday travel. If you want to visit family members, consider going at a different time of year when flights and other expenses may be cheaper.
Bookmark your favorite sites and sign up for email newsletters so you'll be the first to know about holiday sales.
If you've got an end-of-year work bonus coming your way, put it toward your holiday budget.
Pick up a side gig to increase your income before the holidays get here.
The Bottom Line
A holiday budget can help you avoid overspending and start the new year off on the right foot. It comes down to making a plan, preparing your finances, and making changes as necessary.
Using rewards credit cards is another way to potentially save this holiday season. Just be sure to pay off the balance in full each billing cycle to avoid interest charges. When done right, rewards cards can unlock cash back and other worthwhile perks.
East Bay Weekly Events
Step into a world of enchantment at Glowfari ✨ Don't miss out on this illuminating experience! ✨🌙
#Glowfari #NightMagic
Here's the list of fun local events in the Eastbay!
Your Weekly Guide to Local Events
november 10-16
Step into a world of enchantment at Glowfari ✨ Don't miss out on this illuminating experience! ✨🌙
#Glowfari #NightMagic
Here's the list of fun local events in the Eastbay!
Friday 11/10
10:30am 510families Music & Movement
10:30am Visit Oakland Fairyland Toddler Storytime
11am The Good Life Let's Get Moving - Cardio/Strength
12pm 510families Visit with Wildlife
1pm Oakland Public Library Mandela Partners Produce Stand
1pm The Good Life Let's Get Moving - Stretch/Strength
2pm Oakland Public Library It's DiNovember Time!
3pm Oakland Public Library The Bike Fix
4pm Oakland Public Library It's DiNovember Time!
5pm Oakland Zoo Glowfari
6pm Visit Oakland Oakland Diwali Celebration
7pm Jack London Square LATIN NIGHT
7pm Visit Oakland Latin Night featuring Mambo Soul
7pm Visit Oakland Comedy Culture Club
7pm The Mercury News Cinderella Enchanted
7pm Eventbrite Food Pop-Up by Cat Allen w/ Filipino Food
7pm Eventbrite HellaSecret Speakeasy Comedy & Cocktail Night : Oakland / 2023
7:30pm Eventbrite Comedy Oakland at The Washington Inn
7:30pm FunCheap East Bay Bike Party
7:30pm Chabot Space & Science Center FREE TELESCOPE VIEWINGS
8pm Eventbrite Midnight Brunch/Karaoke
9pm Eventbrite HellaSecret Speakeasy Comedy & Cocktail Night : Oakland / 2023
9:45pm Eventbrite Comedy Oakland at The Washington Inn
Saturday 11/11
All day FunCheap Free National Parks Day (2023) Muir Woods + Yosemite for Veterans Day
8am Alameda County Fair GOODGUYS 33RD AUTUMN GET-TOGETHER
8am 510families Free Entrance Day at National Parks
9:30am Oakland Zoo ZooKids
10am Oakland Zoo Veterinary Hospital Tours
10am 510families Open Studio: Diwali
10:30am Chabot Space & Science Center FAMILY NATURE ADVENTURES: THE AMAZING WORLD OF INSECTS AND HELPFUL POLLINATORS
11am 510families Family Time
11:30am Visit Oakland Oakland’s Magic Kitchen at Children’s Fairyland
12pm Oakland Museum of California MEMBER GALLERY CHATS AT OMCA
12pm The Mercury News Oakland Artisan Holiday Fairs
1pm Oakland Museum of California GALLERY CHATS AT OMCA
1pm The Mercury News Cinderella Enchanted
1:30pm 510families Recreation Swim
2pm Eventbrite Outdoor Wine Tasting in Oakland
2pm Eventbrite Black Panther Party Legacy City Tour
2:30pm The Mercury News ShamaNidra
5pm Fourth Street LIGHTS ON & SPARKLING 2023
7pm Eventbrite HellaSecret Speakeasy Comedy & Cocktail Night : Oakland / 2023
7pm The Mercury News Cinderella Enchanted
7pm Eventbrite Comedy Oakland at The Washington Inn
7pm Eventbrite Critical Hit! Live Stand Up Comedy
7:30pm Chabot Space & Science Center FREE TELESCOPE VIEWINGS
8pm Comedy Oakland Comedy Oakland at Calabash (Saturdays)
8pm Visit Oakland Nuthouse at the Golden Squirrel
8:30pm Visit Oakland Nuthouse at The Golden Squirrel: A Weekly No-Cover Comedy Cabaret
9pm Eventbrite HellaSecret Speakeasy Comedy & Cocktail Night : Oakland / 2023
9:30pm Eventbrite Comedy Oakland at The Washington Inn
10pm Eventbrite SILENT PARTY OAKLAND "TRAP, R&B AND AFRO-BEATS"
Sunday 11/12
9am Montclair Village Montclair Village Sunday Farmers’ Market
10am Oakland Zoo Little Vets
11am Jack London Square JACK LONDON SQUARE MARKET
12pm Drake’s Brewing JMPNS FALL FESTIVAL
12pm 510families Model Trains at the Golden State Model Railroad Museum
2pm Oakland Public Library Puzzle Challenge - Winter Edition
5pm Oakland Zoo Glowfari
6pm Eventbrite HellaSecret Speakeasy Comedy & Cocktail Night : Oakland / 2023
7pm Eventbrite Stand-Up Comedy at Nido's Backyard In Jack London Sq.
8pm Eventbrite Butter OAK
9pm Eventbrite Jush Sundays! Drag Cabaret hosted by Jasmine Masters
Monday 11/13
9am The Good Life Mindful Mondays with Iya Kemi
9am 510families Visit the Little Farm
10am Oakland Public Library Family Paths
11am The Good Life Let's Get Moving - Moves and Grooves
6pm Visit Oakland The Second Mondays Open Mic
7pm Eventbrite HellaSecret Speakeasy Comedy & Cocktail Night : Oakland / 2023
7pm FunCheap 1/2 Off Oysters + Monday Night HellaFunny Comedy Show (Oakland)
7pm FunCheap Monday Night Blues (Oakland)
9pm Eventbrite MONDAYS AT ZANZI - Amapiano | Afrohouse | Afrobeats
Tuesday 11/14
10am Berkeley Public Library Gentle Yoga @North
11am The Good Life Let's Get Moving - Pilates
11am The Mercury News Taco Tuesday at Tipsy Putt East Bay
4pm Oakland Public Library Family Game Night @ 81st Ave // Noche De Juegos en Familia
6pm Montclair Village Lawyers in the Library
6:30pm Oakland Public Library One Village, One Book
7pm Visit Oakland Level 1 Improv "Beginner Improv"
7pm Eventbrite HellaSecret Speakeasy Comedy & Cocktail Night : Oakland / 2023
7pm FunCheap Trivia Night + All-Night Happy Hour at Plank (Oakland)
8pm FunCheap Tuesday Trivia Night at Nigh Heron (Oakland)
Wednesday 11/15
9am The Good Life Brothas Building Brothas - Barbershop Talk
10am Oakland Zoo Veterinary Hospital Tours
11am Oakland Public Library Chair Yoga
11am The Good Life Let's Get Moving - Cardio/Strength
3pm Oakland Public Library Teen Gaming @ Dimond
3pm Oakland Public Library Teen Hangout // Pasa Tiempo de Adolescentes
3:30pm Oakland Public Library Family Yoga
5pm Oakland Zoo Glowfari
5pm Drake’s Brewing GATHER STUDIO & EVENTS: BLANKETS & BEER
5:30pm Berkeley Public Library Movie Night @Claremont
6pm Drake’s Brewing TRIVIA NIGHT AT DRAKE’S BARREL HOUSE
7pm Eventbrite HellaSecret Speakeasy Comedy & Cocktail Night : Oakland / 2023
Thursday 11/16
9am The Good Life Brothas Building Brothas - Let's Get Movin' Brothas
10:30am Berkeley Public Library Musical Story Time @Freight & Salvage
11am The Good Life Let's Get Cooking
2:30pm Berkeley Public Library Super Cinema
4pm Jack London Square BEAUJOLAIS NOUVEAU 2023
5:30pm Visit Oakland 90's Trivia Night
6pm Berkeley Public Library Family Movie Night @North
7pm Eventbrite HellaSecret Speakeasy Comedy & Cocktail Night : Oakland / 2023
8pm Eventbrite Comedy Oakland at The Washington Inn
November 2023 | Market Report
Check out the latest real estate trends, data and numbers in our monthly market report for November 2023.
If you have any questions do not hesitate to contact the Simone Koga Group. We welcome your questions!
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Simone Spotlight | Staying on Track when Buying a Home during the Holiday Season
Buying a home during a season popular for gift-giving can put an additional strain on your finances, but that strain can be offset with a good plan, knowing how much you can afford, and a stringent budget.
Monday Blog | november 6th
Here are 3 tips for buying during the Christmas, Hanukkah, and holiday season:
Tip 1. Don’t incur new debts!
When you apply for a mortgage to buy a home, your credit and any existing debt you have will be examined and considered by a loan underwriter. While you don’t have to have zero debt to get a mortgage, you should be paying your debt down consistently to be in the best financial standing possible for the sake of your loan.
It may be tempting to pay for seasonal purchases with a credit card, but ultimately it is not advisable as this will show up as debt. While you are in the process of buying a home, avoid making other large purchases (like buying a car or new furniture), use cash or debit cards as often as possible, and avoid touching your savings account; that’s good advice when buying a home, no matter the season!
Tip 2. What is your bottom line?
Knowing how much you can afford to spend on your home is important any time of year, not just during the holidays. Knowing how much you can spend on a new home before you begin to visit potential properties is key.
Many times buyers are told how much a bank will loan them. This number is the maximum you can spend, but a buyer doesn’t have to spend up to that number. You want to make sure that you know what is the most you want to pay for a home and not exceed that number even if the bank is willing to lend you a higher amount.
Tip 3. Stick to your budget!
Once you have established how much you can spend, you need to stick to that number. Sticking to your budget will make you feel better about moving forward with your home purchase. Knowing that the home you are buying is one that you can afford will prevent unnecessary stress.
Advantages to buying at this time of year:
The holiday season is less competitive. You have motivated sellers and faster closings during the holidays!
Because winter is usually a slower season, it’s a great time to be a buyer. Most home purchases occur during the spring and summer months, but homes go on the market year-round; by shopping during the winter, you’re more likely to find a home that you like quickly and less likely to face stiff competition when you submit your offer.
Additionally, sellers and their agents are often more motivated before the holidays as they want to close the sale before the end of the year, which means they may accept lower-priced offers.
Also, since fewer people move before the holidays, there’s usually not a rush for moving trucks; just a nice little bonus to moving this time of year!
Although both the holidays and the home-buying process occasionally come with their share of stresses, don’t let that dampen your holiday spirit.
Take every chance possible to slow down and celebrate this very special time of year; before you know it, you’ll be in your new home!
East Bay Weekly Events
Get ready to be mesmerized by the enchanting KUMU HULA - IA 'OE E KA LA.
The East Bay Weekly Events are listed below. ⬇️
Your Weekly Guide to Local Events
november 3-9
Get ready to be mesmerized by the enchanting KUMU HULA - IA 'OE E KA LA.
The East Bay Weekly Events are listed below. ⬇️
Friday 11/3
8:30am Oakland Chamber of Commerce Leadership Oakland Session 2
10am Alameda County Fair BIG BOUNCE HOUSE AMERICA GENERAL PARKING
10:30am 510families Music & Movement
11am The Good Life Let's Get Moving - Cardio/Strength
12pm 510families Visit with Wildlife
1pm The Good Life Let's Get Moving - Stretch/Strength
3pm Oakland Public Library The Bike Fix
3pm Alameda County Fair KUMU HULA - IA 'OE E KA LA GENERAL PARKING
3pm Visit Oakland Taylor Jay Happy Shopping Hour
3:30pm Oakland Public Library Día de los Muertos
5pm 510families Oakland First Fridays: Family-friendly Street Party
5pm Drake’s Brewing FIRST FRIDAY
5pm Visit Oakland Black Cultural Zone: Fo'show Friday
5pm Visit Oakland Hardcore Threadlore | Susie Taylor, Terri Friedman, Dance Doyle
6pm Chabot Space & Science Center FIRST FRIDAY: SCIENCE OBSCURA
7pm Eventbrite HellaSecret Speakeasy Comedy & Cocktail Night : Oakland / 2023
7pm Visit Oakland Atif Aslam at the Oakland Arena
7:30pm Chabot Space & Science Center FREE TELESCOPE VIEWINGS
7:30pm Comedy Oakland Comedy Oakland at The Washington Inn
8pm Eventbrite Midnight Brunch/Karaoke
9:45pm Comedy Oakland Comedy Oakland at The Washington Inn
Saturday 11/4
9am Alameda County Fair BIG BOUNCE HOUSE AMERICA GENERAL PARKING
10am Alameda County Fair KUMU HULA - IA 'OE E KA LA GENERAL PARKING
10am Oakland Zoo Veterinary Hospital Tours
10:30am 510families Outdoor Family Storytime
11am Oakland Public Library Family Time
11am 510families Family Fun on the Farm
12pm Oakland Public Library The Bike Fix
12pm Drake’s Brewing CRAFTS & DRAFTS
12pm The Mercury News 2nd Annual Fiesta Alameda
12pm Eventbrite Day Thinking Trivia Brunch
1pm Oakland Museum of California GALLERY CHATS AT OMCA
1:30pm Berkeley Public Library Day of the Dead Felt Embroidery @West
3pm Oakland Public Library Teen Game Day @ 81st Ave // Dia de Juegos para Adolescentes
3pm Visit Oakland Social Saturday Brunch
5pm The Mercury News Dashe Cellars 13th Annual Paella Fiesta
7pm Comedy Oakland Comedy Oakland at The Washington Inn
7:30pm Chabot Space & Science Center FREE TELESCOPE VIEWINGS
7:30pm Visit Oakland Luna Mexicana
8pm Visit Oakland Nuthouse at the Golden Squirrel
9:30pm Comedy Oakland Comedy Oakland at The Washington Inn
10pm Eventbrite ISSA VIBE
Sunday 11/5
9am Alameda County Fair BIG BOUNCE HOUSE AMERICA GENERAL PARKING
9am Montclair Village Montclair Village Sunday Farmers’ Market
9am FunCheap Outer Sunset Farmers Market & Mercantile 2023
10am Alameda County Fair KUMU HULA - IA 'OE E KA LA GENERAL PARKING
11am 510families Drop-In Art Making at BAMPFA
11am FunCheap Por el Pueblo: The Legacy and Influence of Malaquías Montoya (First Sundays)
11am 510families Sunday Storytime
11am 510families Animal Ambassadors
11am Jack London Square JACK LONDON SQUARE MARKET
11am Visit Oakland Jack London Square Farmers Market
11am Oakland Museum of California FIRST SUNDAYS
11:30am Oakland Zoo Little Vets
1pmVisit Oakland MUSA Art Pop-Ups
1pm Oakland Museum of California OMCA ARCHITECTURE WALK AND TALK
1pm Eventbrite Join us every Sunday for our Signature Brunch
5pm Visit Oakland Philippines: Slow Food East Bay’s Celebrating Cultural Food Traditions
6pm FunCheap FREE: Oakland “HellaSecret” Comedy Show (Sunday)
6:30pm Visit Oakland Stand-Up Comedy at Nido's Backyard In Jack London Square
9pm Eventbrite Jush Sundays! Drag Cabaret hosted by Jasmine Masters
Monday 11/6
7:30am 510families Free Admission Hours
9am The Good Life Mindful Mondays with Iya Kemi
9am 510families Visit the Little Farm
10:30am 510families Family Storytime
11am The Good Life Let's Get Moving - Moves and Grooves
7pm FunCheap 1/2 Off Oysters + Monday Night HellaFunny Comedy Show (Oakland)
7pm FunCheap Monday Night Blues (Oakland)
9pm Eventbrite MONDAYS AT ZANZI - Amapiano | Afrohouse | Afrobeats
Tuesday 11/7
8am 510families Explore Blake Garden
10am Berkeley Public Library Gentle Yoga @North
11am The Mercury News Taco Tuesday at Tipsy Putt East Bay
11am The Good Life Let's Get Moving - Pilates
11:45am 510families Baby Bounce
12pm 510families Visit with Wildlife
12pm Oakland Chamber of Commerce Public Policy Series
4pm Oakland Public Library Family Game Night @ 81st Ave // Noche De Juegos en Familia
5:30pm 510families Try (it) Out Tuesdays: Sports Workshops for Girls+
6pm Drake’s Brewing TRIVIA NIGHT AT DRAKE’S DEALERSHIP
7pm FunCheap Taco Tuesday “HellaSecret” Speakeasy Comedy Show (Oakland)
7pm FunCheap Trivia Night + All-Night Happy Hour at Plank (Oakland)
8pm FunCheap Tuesday Trivia Night at Nigh Heron (Oakland)
Wednesday 11/8
9am The Good Life Brothas Building Brothas - Barbershop Talk
9am 510families Free Hour at Japanese Tea Garden
9am 510families Visit the Little Farm
10am Oakland Zoo Veterinary Hospital Tours
11am The Good Life Let's Get Moving - Cardio/Strength
2pm 510families Make and Play Lab
3pm Oakland Public Library Shrinky Dinks
3:30pm Oakland Public Library Family Yoga
3:30pm Berkeley Public Library Playdate in the Park @West
5:30pm Visit Oakland BROWN ESTATE + HOUSE OF BROWN LAKESIDE WINE DINNER
5:30pm Visit Oakland Lake Chalet in Oakland to Host Brown Estate Wine Dinner
7pm Visit Oakland Karaoke
7pm FunCheap Comedy & Wings Night + “Wing Wednesday” $10 Specials (Oakland)
7:30pm The Mercury News The Founding of the World Student Dance Performance
Thursday 11/9
9am The Good Life Brothas Building Brothas - Let's Get Movin' Brothas
11am The Good Life Let's Get Cooking
2:30pm Berkeley Public Library Super Cinema
3pm Oakland Public Library It's DiNovember Time!
4pm FunCheap Open Bike Shop Hours at The Crucible (Oakland)
5:30pm Berkeley Public Library Family Game Night @North
6pm The Mercury News Instant Band Night 23: YOU
7pm Eventbrite The Ruckus and Rumpus Revival
7pm FunCheap FREE: “Thirsty Thursday” Oakland Comedy Night w/ All-Night $5 Drink Specials
8pm Comedy Oakland Comedy Oakland at The Washington Inn
8pm Visit Oakland F Bomb Presents: Hofkuche Comedy
9pm The Mercury News Anime Expo Cinema Nights
Simone Spotlight | What to do with all the Halloween Candy?
Too much Halloween candy? Don't let it go to waste! Share with friends, donate to a local charity, or get creative with fun recipes. Don't forget to save some for those sweet cravings!
What to do with all the Halloween Candy?
October 30th
Here are some great options to consider when deciding on what to do with all the Halloween candy. Below are some ways for you to use the candy that won’t affect your waistline.
Use Halloween Candy in Baking Holiday Treats
It’s not hard to end up with tons of leftover candy by the end of Halloween. We’re all about that sugar rush in October, but as the weeks after the spooky holiday go by, we get less and less interested in our candy stash.
One thing to do with leftover candy is to turn it into desserts and treats for the holidays that come after Halloween. Need a sweet treat for Thanksgiving?
Great recipes to repurpose your Halloween candy are:
Turkey Cupcakes - Are you stuck with candy corn and don’t know what to do? This recipe will use your leftover Reese's Pieces cups, Candy Corn, Malt Balls and more for a great Thanksgiving dessert.
Twix Cheesecake Pie - Have an abundance of Twixes? Here is a great recipe that will be the perfect dessert after your turkey dinner.
Butterfinger Cookies - Don’t know what to do with those Butterfingers? Here is a great recipe to turn those candy bars into an after dinner dessert for your family.
Loaded Candy Bar Popcorn - Do you have lots of different candy? Not a problem! Here is a recipe to turn all your candy into a treat that you can enjoy at any time, not just the holiday.
Donate Halloween Candy 2023
If you’re tired of candy and just want to get rid of it all, before you throw it away, check out the organizations below which will gladly accept candy donations — for a good cause!
Run by Soldier’s Angels, this program allows you to send sweets to military service members. Kids can earn buyback prizes, and you can get a tax deductible receipt for your donation.
This group partners with businesses such as dentists offices to get extra candy out of the hands of your little ones in exchange for healthy items such as toothbrushes, hygiene kits and coupons. Use the zip code search to find a buyback location in your area.
This organization is ready to receive your candy donations — they distribute candy on Halloween, Christmas and Easter to troops that are missing the festivities while away from home regardless of where they are stationed. Any candy donations can be sent to Operation Shoebox at: 8360 East Highway 25, Belleview, FL 34420.
4. Ronald McDonald House Charities
Call your local chapter to find out rules on bringing your unopened Halloween candy for severely sick children and their families to enjoy. While your kids are out trick-or-treating, these families will appreciate the taste of the holiday being delivered to them while they are in need.
Other options for candy donation include calling your local food pantry, homeless shelter or nursing home to see if they accept Halloween candy.
Freeze Your Candy
Lastly if you don’t want to bake it or donate it, a great option is to freeze your candy for a later time. Store it in your freezer, you and your family can eat it slowly throughout the year whenever a sweet tooth strikes.
The Simone Koga Group hopes you have a lovely and safe Holiday Season!
East Bay Weekly Events
Experience the spooktacular joy at Halloween Family Fest 2023! 🎃👻
Your weekly list of fun local events is here.
Check this out 👀⬇️
Your Weekly Guide to Local Events
october 27-november 2
Experience the spooktacular joy at Halloween Family Fest 2023! 🎃👻
Your weekly list of fun local events is here.
Check this out 👀⬇️
Friday 10/27
9AM Oakland Chamber of Commerce Inside Oakland w/ District Attorney Pamela Y. Price
10am Oakland Zoo Boo at the Zoo
10am Visit Oakland Halloween Jam at Fairyland
10am The Mercury News Halloween Jam at Children's Fairyland
10am Alameda County Fair BIG BOUNCE HOUSE AMERICA GENERAL PARKING
10am Alameda County Fair HARVEST FESTIVAL GENERAL PARKING
10am Berkeley Public Library Día de los Muertos Community Altar @THP South
11am The Good Life Let's Get Moving - Cardio/Strength
12pm 510families Spooktacular Stroll Trick or Treat
12pm Drake’s Brewing HALLOWEEN WEEKEND AT THE BARN
1pm The Good Life Let's Get Moving - Stretch/Strength
1pm Oakland Public Library Mandela Partners Produce Stand
2pm Oakland Public Library Teen Party @Main TeenZone (of Terror)
3pm Oakland Public Library The Bike Fix
3pm 510families Berkeley Halloween Hootenanny
3pm 510families Eden Night
4pm 510families Lafayette Trick or Treat Street
4pm Oakland Public Library Día de los Muertos
5pm Oakland Museum of California FRIDAY NIGHTS AT OMCA: SAMBAFUNK! WITH KING THEO OGUM
6:30pm The Mercury News Movie Night at KANNA!
7pm The Mercury News Studio 23 Halloween Blacklight Art Show
7pm 510families Haunted Train at Ardenwood
7pm The Mercury News NAKA Dance Theater Presents Y Basta Ya! The Performance of the Performance
7pm Jack London Square LATIN NIGHT
7:15pm The Mercury News Big-screen ‘Barbie’ movie night coming to Oracle Park
7:30pm Chabot Space & Science Center FREE TELESCOPE VIEWINGS
8pm Eventbrite Midnight Brunch/Karaoke
9pm Eventbrite Queer Sabor: A Queer & Trans Afro-Latin Dance Party
10pm Eventbrite Trapxart Oakland: Halloween Costume & Fashion Party
Saturday 10/28
9am Alameda County Fair BIG BOUNCE HOUSE AMERICA GENERAL PARKING
10am Visit Oakland Halloween Jam at Fairyland
10am 510families Annie’s Halloween Spooktacular Garden Event
10am 510families Halloween Land: Pumpkin Patch & Parade
10am The Mercury News Halloween Jam at Children's Fairyland
10am Black Cultural Zone THE TOWN HARVEST: BUILDING BLACK POWER
10am Oakland Zoo Boo at the Zoo
10am Alameda County Fair HARVEST FESTIVAL GENERAL PARKING
10am Oakland Zoo Veterinary Hospital Tours
10:30am Oakland Public Library Family Storytime
11am Eventbrite Hella Plants Halloween Market!!!
11am Oakland Public Library Original Foods of Latin America
11:30am Visit Oakland OctoBOOer 2023 QuaranPalooza Livestream Music Fest
12pm Jack London Square HALLOWEEN SELFIE EXPERIENCE
1pm Oakland Museum of California GALLERY ACTIVATION HOURS
1pm 510families Halloween Family Fest
2pm Oakland Public Library Mini Pumpkin Painting
2pm Oakland Public Library Celebrate Filipino Heritage Month with Author Rev Valdez
2pm Eventbrite Black Panther Party Legacy City Tour
3pm Eventbrite Oakland Rooftop FrightFest: Spooky Afrobeats/Amapiano Halloween Day Party
3pm 510families Haunted House
5pm Chabot Space & Science Center HALLOWEEN FULL MOON HIKE & SIP
7pm The Mercury News 16th Annual Berkeley Community Media Horror Film Fest-Evil
7pm Eventbrite Critical Hit! Live Stand Up Comedy
7pm FunCheap FREE: Oakland’s HellaSecret Comedy & Cocktails (2023)
7pm FunCheap FREE: Oakland Comedy Saturday Night @ Secret Speakeasy (7p + 9p Shows)
7:30pm Chabot Space & Science Center FREE TELESCOPE VIEWINGS
8pm FunCheap Win Tix: “Cypress Hill” Haunted Hill Tour: Live at the Fox Theater (Oakland)
10pm FunCheap Alameda’s Halloween BlackLight Art Show (2023)
10pm Eventbrite 6th Annual 'FreakFest' Halloween Costume Bash! - Oakland
10:30pm Eventbrite HALLOWEEN FRIGHT NIGHT COSTUME CRUISE 2023
Sunday 10/29
9am Alameda County Fair BIG BOUNCE HOUSE AMERICA GENERAL PARKING
9am Montclair Village Montclair Village Sunday Farmers’ Market
10am Drake’s Brewing SELF CARE SUNDAYS: BOOGIE OOGIE BASH
10am Visit Oakland Halloween Jam at Fairyland
10am Oakland Zoo Boo at the Zoo
10am 510families Colusa Circle Halloween Harvest Celebration
10am 510families Dia de los Muertos Festival
10am Alameda County Fair HARVEST FESTIVAL GENERAL PARKING
10am Oakland Zoo Little Vets
10am Montclair Village Halloween Fun for Everyone!
10am Oakland Public Library Haunted History Bike Ride
11am 510families Rockridge Halloween Parade & Trick-or-Treating
11am Oakland Public Library College Avenue Halloween Parade
11am Jack London Square JACK LONDON SQUARE MARKET
1pm Jack London Square HALLOWEEN DIA DE LOS MUERTOS FAMILY FUN FEST
1pm Eventbrite Join us every Sunday for our Signature Brunch
3pm Black Cultural Zone TRUNK OR TREAT
3pm Eventbrite Rooftop Costume Party Halloween
7pm Eventbrite Stand-Up Comedy at Nido's Backyard In Jack London Sq.
8pm The Mercury News Musical Cafe Fall Showcase of New Musicals
9pm Eventbrite Jush Sundays! Drag Cabaret hosted by Jasmine Masters
Monday 10/30
9am The Good Life Mindful Mondays with Iya Kemi
11am The Good Life Let's Get Moving - Moves and Grooves
4pm Berkeley Public Library Halloween Story Time and Costume Parade @THP South
9pm Eventbrite MONDAYS AT ZANZI - Amapiano | Afrohouse | Afrobeats
Tuesday 10/31
10am Berkeley Public Library Gentle Yoga @North
10:30am 510families Halloween Storytime & Costume Parade
10:30am 510families Hikes for Tykes: Crown Beach
11am The Good Life Let's Get Moving - Pilates
12pm Oakland Public Library Elmhurst Halloween Movie Marathon!
2pm 510families Drop-In Halloween Dance Party
3pm Fourth Street TRICK OR TREAT & HALLOWEEN FESTIVAL 2023
3pm Montclair Village TBD Montclair Annual Halloween Parade
3:30pm Berkeley Public Library Trick-or-Treat at the Library
3:30pm Berkeley Public Library Halloween Movie For Teens @North
4pm Berkeley Public Library Halloween Extravaganza @ Claremont
4pm Oakland Public Library Family Game Night @ 81st Ave // Noche De Juegos en Familia
4pm Oakland Public Library Halloween Parade and Trick-Or-Treating!
5:30pm Drake’s Brewing DOGTOBER
7pm Jack London Square TRIVIA NIGHT
7pm Eventbrite Dark Hallow: Circus Variety Show, Immersive Experience & After Party
9pm Eventbrite HALLOWEEN NIGHT w/ DJs MIND MOTION, SLOWPOKE and LEXX JONEZ
Wednesday 11/1
All day Oakland Public Library IGM presents: Giant Board Games
9am The Good Life Brothas Building Brothas - Barbershop Talk
10am Oakland Zoo Veterinary Hospital Tours
11am The Good Life Let's Get Moving - Cardio/Strength
11am Oakland Public Library Chair Yoga
12pm Oakland Museum of California SPECIAL EDITION GALLERY CHATS AT OMCA
3pm Oakland Public Library Teen Hangout // Pasa Tiempo de Adolescentes
3pm Oakland Public Library Family Yoga
5:30pm Berkeley Public Library Movie Night @Claremont
6pm 510families Día de Muertos Celebration
6pm Drake’s Brewing TRIVIA NIGHT AT DRAKE’S BARREL HOUSE
Thursday 11/2
9am The Good Life Brothas Building Brothas - Let's Get Movin' Brothas
10am The Good Life Stress Busters!
11am The Good Life Let's Get Cooking
2:30pm Berkeley Public Library Super Cinema
5:30pm The Mercury News Family Game Night
7pm FunCheap FREE: “Thirsty Thursday” Oakland Comedy Night w/ All-Night $5 Drink Specials
Simone Spotlight | Halloween in the East Bay
Wondering what to do for Halloween fun in the East Bay? Here is a list of great events taking place near you to enjoy with your family and make long lasting memories.
Do you want to trick-or-treat, enjoy a parade, face painting, a buffet, or swim with floating pumpkins? You can pick and choose or do it all!
We wish you the best Halloween this holiday season!
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East Bay Weekly Events
Join us for an unforgettable day of laughter and endless bouncing at Big Bounce House America!
Here's the list of fun local events in the Eastbay!
Your Weekly Guide to Local Events
october 20-october 26
Join us for an unforgettable day of laughter and endless bouncing at Big Bounce House America!
Here's the list of fun local events in the Eastbay!
Friday 10/20
8:30am Oakland Chamber of Commerce Leadership Oakland Session 1
10am Oakland Zoo Boo at the Zoo
10:30am FunCheap 2023 “Friends of the Oakland Public Library” Fall Book Sale (Oct. 20-22)
11am The Good Life Let's Get Moving - Cardio/Strength
11:30am Jack London Square CHABLIS WINE FESTIVAL 2023
1pm The Good Life Let's Get Moving - Stretch/Strength
1pm Oakland Public Library Mandela Partners Produce Stand
3pm Berkeley Public Library Urban Sketching @4th Street
4pm Berkeley Public Library In The Stax Music Series: Chris Waltz @Central
4:30pm City of Oakland Oakland Love Life Day Celebration 2023
5pm Oakland Museum of California FRIDAY NIGHTS AT OMCA FEATURING LIVE BEATMAKING WITH SETI X
5pm FunCheap “Friday Nights at OMCA with Off the Grid” Block Party + DJs (Oakland)
5pm Visit Oakland Oakland Love Life
5pm Visit Oakland Black Cultural Zone: Salsa 'N' Skate
6:30pm The Mercury News Movie Night at KANNA!
7pm FunCheap The Bay Area’s “Haunted Railroad” 2023 (Oct. 20-29)
7pm Eventbrite HellaSecret Speakeasy Comedy & Cocktail Night : Oakland / 2023
7:30pm Chabot Space & Science Center FREE TELESCOPE VIEWINGS
7:30pm Eventbrite Comedy Oakland Live Standup Comedy Show
7pm Eventbrite HellaSecret Speakeasy Comedy & Cocktail Night : Oakland / 2023
7pm FunCheap FREE: Oakland’s HellaSecret Comedy & Cocktails (2023)
8pm Eventbrite Midnight Brunch/Karaoke
8pm Eventbrite Bad Art: Creative Misery Loves Comedy
9:45pm Eventbrite Comedy Oakland Live Standup Comedy Show
Saturday 10/21
9am Alameda County Fair BIG BOUNCE HOUSE AMERICA GENERAL PARKING
9am The Mercury News Tic Talk Bark Walk
9am FunCheap Westbrae Pumpkin Patch 2023 in North Berkeley + Fall Bake Sale
9:30am Oakland Zoo ZooKids
10am Eventbrite Black Liberation Walking Tour
10am 510families Animal Discovery Zone Reopening
10am Berkeley Public Library Ballet and Books @Central CMR
10am Oakland Zoo Boo at the Zoo
10am 510families Family Halloween Day
10am 510families Sunol Heritage Festival
10am Oakland Zoo Veterinary Hospital Tours
11am 510families Berkeley Harvest Festival
11am Berkeley Public Library Mindful Making @THP South
11am Jack London Square CANINE COMPANIONS' DOGFEST BAY AREA 2023
11am Jack London Square CHABLIS WINE FESTIVAL 2023
12pm Jack London Square HALLOWEEN SELFIE EXPERIENCE
12pm 510families Richmond Fall Festival
12pm Alameda County Fair DIWALI FESTIVAL GENERAL PARKING
1pm Eventbrite Vibes On Vibes Festival
1pm Oakland Museum of California GALLERY ACTIVATION HOURS
4pm Eventbrite P-Lo presents the Very Good Food Tour - Oakland
7pm Eventbrite Comedy Oakland Live Standup Comedy Show
7pm FunCheap Win Tix: “Fortune Feimster: Live Laugh Love” Comedy Tour at Fox Theater (Oakland)
7pm Eventbrite Critical Hit! Live Stand Up Comedy
7:30pm Piedmont Center for the Arts Healing Muses 2nd Annual Benefit Concert & Silent Auction
7:30pm The Mercury News Dimensions Dance Theater 50th Anniversary Continues
9:30pm Eventbrite Comedy Oakland Live Standup Comedy Show
10pm Eventbrite SATURDAY NIGHT VYBZ
Sunday 10/22
9am Alameda County Fair BIG BOUNCE HOUSE AMERICA GENERAL PARKING
9am Montclair Village Montclair Village Sunday Farmers’ Market
10am Oakland Zoo Boo at the Zoo
10am Oakland Zoo Little Vets
10:30am 510families Sunday Fun Day
11am Jack London Square CHABLIS WINE FESTIVAL 2023
11am Oakland Museum of California 29TH ANNUAL DÍA DE LOS MUERTOS COMMUNITY CELEBRATION
11am Jack London Square JACK LONDON SQUARE MARKET
11am Visit Oakland Baddies Brunch at Sobre Mesa
12pm 510families Fall Picnic
12pm The Mercury News ALAMEDA LANDING TO HOST CHALK FESTIVAL AND HALLOWEEN SPOOKTACULAR EVENT
1pm Eventbrite Join us every Sunday for our Signature Brunch
2:45pm Visit Oakland BANDALOOP Vertical Dance Performance
3pm Black Cultural Zone SHOP & SKATE AT LIBERATION PARK
4pm The Mercury News AfterGlow Chorus Concert - Stand Up: Support Ukraine & Fight Antisemitism
6pm Visit Oakland Oakland Style Week: 50 Years of Hip-Hop
7pm Eventbrite Stand-Up Comedy at Nido's Backyard In Jack London Sq.
8pm Eventbrite Butter OAK
Monday 10/23
9am The Good Life Mindful Mondays with Iya Kemi
10am Oakland Zoo Boo at the Zoo
11am The Good Life Let's Get Moving - Moves and Grooves
Tuesday 10/24
10am Oakland Zoo Boo at the Zoo
10am Berkeley Public Library Gentle Yoga @North
11am The Good Life Let's Get Moving - Pilates
11am The Mercury News Taco Tuesday at Tipsy Putt East Bay
2pm Berkeley Public Library Cal-o-Ween Crafts @West
4pm Oakland Public Library Family Game Night @ 81st Ave // Noche De Juegos en Familia
7pm 510families BHS Jazz – Autumn Concerts
7pm Jack London Square TRIVIA NIGHT
Wednesday 10/25
9am The Good Life Brothas Building Brothas - Barbershop Talk
9:40am The Mercury News Kindergym-Fall Sessions
10am Oakland Zoo Veterinary Hospital Tours
10am Oakland Zoo Boo at the Zoo
11am The Good Life Let's Get Moving - Cardio/Strength
12:30pm The Good Life Mind, Body & Spirit: Medication Management
3pm Oakland Public Library Teen Hangout // Pasa Tiempo de Adolescentes
3:30pm Oakland Public Library Family Yoga
5:30pm Berkeley Public Library Movie Night @Claremont
6:30pm Berkeley Public Library Bike Camping in the East Bay @North
7pm Jack London Square KARAOKE
7pm 510families BHS Jazz – Autumn Concerts
Thursday 10/26
9am The Good Life Brothas Building Brothas - Let's Get Movin' Brothas
10am Oakland Zoo Boo at the Zoo
10:30am Berkeley Public Library Musical Story Time in the Park
11am The Good Life Let's Get Cooking
2:30pm Berkeley Public Library Super Cinema
6pm Chabot Space & Science Center ACRYLIC SPACE PAINT & SIP
6:30pm Drake’s Brewing PINKY’S PAINTING PARTY: SKULLS AND SUNFLOWERS
7pm The Mercury News NAKA Dance Theater Presents Y Basta Ya! The Performance of the Performance
East Bay Weekly Events
Get ready for carnival games, delicious treats, and the perfect pumpkin picking experience at Harding Carnival & Pumpkin Patch.
Here is the list of fun local events, Eastbay!
Your Weekly Guide to Local Events
october 13-october 19
Get ready for carnival games, delicious treats, and the perfect pumpkin picking experience at Harding Carnival & Pumpkin Patch.
Here is the list of fun local events, Eastbay!
Friday 10/13
8:30am Oakland Chamber of Commerce Leadership Oakland Session 1
10am Oakland Zoo Boo at the Zoo
10:30am 510families Music & Movement
11am The Good Life Let's Get Moving - Cardio/Strength
11am City of Oakland Resource + Care Fair
11:30am 510families Drop-In Tot Public Swim
1pm Oakland Public Library Mandela Partners Produce Stand
1pm The Good Life Let's Get Moving - Stretch/Strength
3pm Oakland Public Library The Bike Fix
4:30pm Oakland Museum of California FALL TEACHER NIGHT
5pm Oakland Museum of California FRIDAY NIGHTS AT OMCA FEATURING HAVANA NIGHTS SF, PRESENTED BY RUMBACHÉ AND THE CALIDANCE!
5pm FunCheap “Friday Nights at OMCA with Off the Grid” Block Party + DJs (Oakland)
6pm Eventbrite 12th Annual Autumn Lights Festival
6pm FunCheap Walnut Creek’s Annual Oktoberfest
6pm 510families Kids Zone at Walnut Creek Oktoberfest
7pm Jack London Square LATIN NIGHT
7pm FunCheap FREE: Oakland’s HellaSecret Comedy & Cocktails (2023)
7pm Eventbrite HellaSecret Speakeasy Comedy & Cocktail Night : Oakland / 2023
7pm Eventbrite Food Pop-Up by Cat Allen w/ Filipino Food
7:30pm Chabot Space & Science Center LASER AFTER HOURS: FRIGHT LIGHT NIGHT
7:30pm Chabot Space & Science Center FREE TELESCOPE VIEWINGS
7:30pm Eventbrite Comedy Oakland Live Standup Comedy Show
8pm Eventbrite LVRGRL @ The White Horse
8pm FunCheap “Spooked Live” Friday the 13th Live Storytelling (Oakland)
9pm Eventbrite Eventbrite HellaSecret Speakeasy Comedy & Cocktail Night : Oakland / 2023
9:30pm Chabot Space & Science Center LASER AFTER HOURS: FRIGHT NIGHT LIGHT
9:45pm Eventbrite Comedy Oakland Live Standup Comedy Show
Saturday 10/14
7:30am Chabot Space & Science Center ANNULAR SOLAR ECLIPSE
7:30am Visit Oakland Annular Solar Eclipse
8:30am 510families Solar Eclipse Viewing Party
9am The Mercury News Freedom Farmers Market - Live Talent Show
9am The Mercury News A Conversation for Black Women - Building an Economic Action Plan
9am FunCheap Westbrae Pumpkin Patch 2023 in North Berkeley + Fall Bake Sale (Oct. 1-31)
9:30am Oakland Zoo ZooKids
10am Berkeley Public Library Ballet and Books @Central CMR
10am Visit Oakland Life is Living Festival
10am Oakland Zoo Boo at the Zoo
10:30am Berkeley Public Library Family Story Time @Downtown Berkeley Farmer's Market
10:30am The Mercury News Freight Fest
11am 510families Family Time
12pm 510families Rockridge Rock-N-Stroll
12pm The Mercury News JACK LONDON SQUARE HALLOWEEN SELFIE EXPERIENCES
12pm Oakland Museum of California MEMBER GALLERY ACTIVATION HOURS
12pm Jack London Square HALLOWEEN SELFIE EXPERIENCE
1pm The Mercury News Oakland Comedy Festival 2023
1pm Oakland Museum of California GALLERY ACTIVATION HOURS
1:30pm 510families Family Nature Fun Hour at Crab Cove
2pm Drake’s Brewing SCARY SUGAR COOKIE DECORATING CLASS WITH EAST BAKED
2pm Oakland Public Library Kids Costume Swap!
2pm Visit Oakland Outdoor Wine Tasting
3pm 510families Fish Feeding Viewing
7pm FunCheap FREE: Oakland Comedy Saturday Night @ Secret Speakeasy (7p + 9p Shows)
7pm Eventbrite Critical Hit! Live Stand Up Comedy
7pm Eventbrite Comedy Oakland Live Standup Comedy Show
7:30pm Chabot Space & Science Center FREE TELESCOPE VIEWINGS
8pm Visit Oakland Nuthouse at the Golden Squirrel
9:30pm Eventbrite Comedy Oakland Live Standup Comedy Show
10pm Eventbrite Toasted Life R&B Vibe Lounge
Sunday 10/15
9am Montclair Village Montclair Village Sunday Farmers’ Market
10am Oakland Zoo Boo at the Zoo
10am 510families Berkeley Bird Festival
10am Oakland Zoo Little Vets
11am Jack London Square JACK LONDON SQUARE MARKET
11am 510families Harding Carnival & Pumpkin Patch
12pm The Mercury News Leave Your Mark | Popping 2nd Edition Dance Battle by TURFinc
12pm 510families Chalk Fest
1pm Eventbrite Join us every Sunday for our Signature Brunch
3pm Black Cultural Zone SHOP & SKATE AT LIBERATION PARK
3pm 510families Fish Feeding Viewing
7pm Eventbrite Stand-Up Comedy at Nido's Backyard In Jack London Sq.
8pm Eventbrite Butter OAK
9pm Eventbrite Jush Sundays! Drag Cabaret hosted by Jasmine Masters
Monday 10/16
9am The Good Life Mindful Mondays with Iya Kemi
9am 510families Visit the Little Farm
10am Oakland Zoo Boo at the Zoo
10:30am Berkeley Public Library Bananas Playgroup @THP South
11am The Good Life Let's Get Moving - Moves and Grooves
7pm FunCheap 1/2 Off Oysters + Monday Night HellaFunny Comedy Show (Oakland)
7pm FunCheap Monday Night Blues (Oakland)
Tuesday 10/17
10am Oakland Zoo Boo at the Zoo
10am Berkeley Public Library Gentle Yoga @North
11am The Good Life Let's Get Moving - Pilates
3pm Berkeley Public Library Halloween Crafternoons @Claremont
6pm Drake’s Brewing TRIVIA NIGHT AT DRAKE’S DEALERSHIP
7pm Jack London Square TRIVIA NIGHT
Wednesday 10/18
9am The Good Life Brothas Building Brothas - Barbershop Talk
10am Oakland Zoo Veterinary Hospital Tours
10am Oakland Zoo Boo at the Zoo
10:30am Berkeley Public Library Story Time on the Lawn @North
11am Oakland Public Library Chair Yoga
11am The Good Life Let's Get Moving - Cardio/Strength
3:30pm Oakland Public Library Family Yoga
5:30pm Oakland Museum of California OAKLAND STYLE KICK-OFF: A TASTE OF STYLE
5:30pm Berkeley Public Library Movie Night @Claremont
6pm Oakland Public Library Father Circle
6pm Drake’s Brewing TRIVIA NIGHT AT DRAKE’S BARREL HOUSE
7pm Jack London Square KARAOKE
7pm FunCheap Comedy & Wings Night + “Wing Wednesday” $10 Specials (Oakland)
7:30pm The Mercury News ALIXIR DANCE | ecstatic dance
Thursday 10/19
9am The Good Life Brothas Building Brothas - Let's Get Movin' Brothas
10am Oakland Zoo Boo at the Zoo
10:30am Berkeley Public Library Musical Story Time in the Park
11am The Good Life Let's Get Cooking
12pm Oakland Public Library Planting Wellness/Sembrando Bienestar
2:30pm Berkeley Public Library Super Cinema
6pm Berkeley Public Library Family Movie Night @North
7pm FunCheap FREE: “Thirsty Thursday” Oakland Comedy Night w/ All-Night $5 Drink Specials
October 2023 | Market Report
This month’s latest data, numbers and statistics on the East Bay real estate market. If you have any questions feel free to contact the Simone Koga Group we are happy to answer any questions you may have.
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Simone Spotlight | A Step by Step Process Guide to the Home Loan Process
Navigating the home loan process may seem daunting, but with the right information and preparation, it can be a manageable and rewarding experience.
With careful planning, you can achieve your homeownership goals and enjoy the benefits of having a place to call your own.
A Step by Step Process Guide to the
Home Loan Process
october 9th
Your 8-Step Guide To The Home Loan Process
Follow these 8 steps to get a mortgage loan and become a new homeowner.
1. Figure Out What You Can Afford
Before diving into the home loan process, take a close look at your financial situation:
Calculate your credit score.
Evaluate your current debts and monthly expenses.
Determine how much you can comfortably afford as a down payment.
Having a clear understanding of your financial standing will help you set realistic expectations and select the right loan option.
Using a home affordability calculator is another great way to learn how much house you can afford, further aiding your dream home search by knowing what is within reach financially.
2. Start Choosing A Lender and Get Preapproved For A Loan
Mortgage preapproval will show you how much a mortgage lender is willing to lend you for a loan. Mortgage lenders calculate this and your interest rate by assessing your income, credit history, credit report, assets, and credit score.
Keep in mind that preapproval will make you more attractive to home sellers and real estate agents since you’re already vetted and ready for the mortgage loan process.
3. Find Your Dream Home And Put In An Offer
Now it’s time to start looking for your dream home. Look at any homes you think could be the right fit and don’t be afraid to ask your real estate agent for help with the home buying journey. Once you find the perfect home for you, you’ll need to put in an offer. Along with putting in an offer, you will also submit your earnest money deposit to secure the offer on the home.
It’s important to note that during this process your credit will be pulled twice. It’s imperative that you maintain the same income, and credit lines throughout the transaction process. A change in income or credit could change your debt-to-income ratio and derail your home buying timeline or even possibly prevent you from moving forward with your home purchase.
4. Finalize Your Choice For Your Mortgage Lender
Once your offer is accepted on a new home, you can move forward and choose a mortgage lender. It’s best practice to shop around with at least a couple of different lenders to find the best interest rates and fees for your loan.
Keep in mind that your interest rate depends on your mortgage application and the type of loan you are applying for. There are various home loan options available, including:
Conventional Loans: Typically require a 20% down payment, but some lenders accept less.
FHA Loans: Backed by the Federal Housing Administration, these loans require lower down payments and are more accessible to borrowers with lower credit scores.
VA Loans: Exclusive to eligible veterans and military personnel, these loans often require no down payment.
USDA Loans: Designed for rural areas and offer no-down-payment options for eligible buyers.
Select the loan type that aligns with your financial situation and homeownership goals.
5. Submit Your Mortgage Application
After you’ve selected what mortgage lender you’re going to work with, it’s time to completely fill out a mortgage application. Once you’ve submitted all of the necessary documents to complete your application, you’ll get a loan estimate in a couple of days that will disclose the terms, rates, and fees of your home loan.
Lenders require specific documents to process your loan application, including:
W-2s or tax returns
Pay stubs
Bank statements
ID and social security number
Proof of assets
Employment history
Having these documents ready will speed up the loan approval process.
6. Go Through Mortgage Underwriting
Once your application is submitted, the lender will:
Verify your financial information.
Appraise the property.
Review your credit history.
This step ensures you meet all the lender's requirements and guidelines.
Once verification is complete, you’ll receive final approval on your loan application. For the borrower, this process is more of a waiting period as they are usually not needed unless the lender has any specific questions or needs any additional documents.
7. Prepare Your Down Payment And Closing Costs
Now you’re inching closer to the finish line, this is where down payments and closing costs come into play. You’ll need to provide the down payment for the property, payment for the closing costs agreed upon as well as proof of homeowners insurance. This information can be found in the closing disclosure which you will receive after mortgage underwriting has been completed. It’s important for you to understand these closing documents and be financially prepared in order to finish the mortgage loan process.
8. Close On Your New Home
The final step to complete is to attend your closing day meeting and officially become a homeowner. At your closing, you’ll sign all necessary documents and ask any questions you have regarding the sale or the property itself. This meeting will be conducted with the closing attorney or a title company usually in person, but e-closings are also available. Once everything is signed and handed over, you’ll receive the keys to your property and you’ll officially be able to move into your new home.