Thousands of visitors expected for Jack London Square weekend events

Oakland, Calif. – April 26, 2019: Two family-friendly, cultural festivals take center stage at Jack London Square tomorrow and Sunday. Both are free and open to the public. More than 7,000 people are expected to come to the waterfront over the two days.

The Songkran Festival recognizes the Thai, Lao, and Myanmar New Year, which honors parents and ancestors through art, food, and festivities. It’s presented by Farmhouse Kitchen Thai Cuisine and is scheduled for Saturday, beginning at 9:30 a.m.

The event features a morning ceremony where participants give food to local monks for good luck and fortune, followed by a parade that will lead guests to the main stage for traditional Thai dance and music performances through 4 p.m. Live entertainment resumes at 7 p.m. as the festival prepares for a screening of the traditional Thai movie “Ong-Bak: The Thai Warrior” with English subtitles. Lawn chairs, picnic blankets and layered clothing are encouraged for enjoying the film on the lawn at 55 Harrison St. at sunset.

Oakland Dance Festival returns to Jack London Square for its sixth year. It’s presented by Dance-A-Vision Saturday and Sunday from 2 to 8 p.m. and brings together local dancers, choreographers, studios, and teachers for two days of rhythm and fun.

Oakland Dance Festival features Axis Dance Company, Alicia the Dance Dragon Slayer and other Bay Area dance companies. It showcases dance genres including jazz, ballet, modern, hip-hop, folkloric dance and more. From kids to adults, dancers of all ages will perform and celebrate the power of dance and culture. The event concludes with a large outdoor public dance party on Sunday.

Transportation options to the Square include the Alameda/SF Bay Ferry, Amtrak, biking, walking and driving. For detailed directions to the Oakland waterfront, please go here.

About the Port of Oakland

The Port of Oakland oversees the Oakland Seaport, Oakland International Airport, and nearly 20 miles of waterfront including Jack London Square. The Port's 5-year strategic plan - Growth with Care - pairs business expansion with community benefits, envisioning more jobs and economic stimulus as the Port grows. Together with its business partners, the Port supports more than 84,000 jobs in the region. Connect with the Port of Oakland and Oakland International Airport through Facebook, or with the Port on Twitter, YouTube, and at www.portofoakland.com.