Local Activities

Established in 2007, Musically Minded Academy is a non-profit corporation offering a unique music education program and an empowering environment for students and teachers to connect. At Musically Minded Academy, we strive to provide students with the best music education possible, giving them the tools to not only master their instrument but also to express themselves and build self-confidence. Our unique programs are designed to create a stimulating learning environment with close student-teacher relationships. Our mission is to foster creativity and build community through performance based music education. We believe in fostering a supportive and nurturing environment for our students, so they can experience success every day. This is why Musically Minded Academy has become a respected and admired institution, providing excellent music education programs and a close-knit community for all our students.

KinderGuitar can provide your child with the opportunity to experience the joy of making music. The guitar is an ideal instrument to begin a journey of music appreciation and exploration. With its global popularity, flexibility, affordability and portability, the guitar provides endless possibilities for your child to learn how to play and to develop an appreciation for music. With the help of KinderGuitar’s curriculum, your child can explore the world of music and gain an appreciation for music, and the enrichment it provides to their life and the lives of those around them.

At Montclair Community Play Center (MCPC), we strive to provide a safe, nurturing and stimulating environment for our children to grow and learn. We are a play-based parent's cooperative preschool in Oakland, California, and have been since 1933. Our campus is situated among redwood trees, and we have multiple outdoor and indoor spaces, including two large outdoor play spaces, a nature area with chickens, an all-weather outdoor art space, a large playroom, a stand-alone learning annex and a snack room. We are a diverse community of 25 families who work together to create an environment that allows our children to learn how to resolve conflict, build self-esteem and value diversity.

At the Academy of Hawaiian Arts, hula classes are designed to help haumāna (students) to master their skills. While it takes dedication and time to become proficient in hula, the physical discipline of the dance is often overlooked. For those who are interested in learning hula, it is recommended to understand the basics first. Students enrolled in classes at the Academy of Hawaiian Arts are able to learn at a much faster rate than those who have never taken classes before. Regardless of experience level, everyone is invited to come and learn hula. The Academy of Hawaiian Arts offers an exceptional hula program with classes designed to help students hone their skills. The physical demands of hula are often disregarded when first starting, but with dedication and time, the dancer can become proficient. For those who are looking to start learning, it is best to have a basic understanding of hula before beginning. At the Academy of Hawaiian Arts, students who have taken classes or are currently enrolled are able to learn two times faster than those who have not taken classes. Everyone is welcomed to join the program regardless of experience level.

At B.I.G., we believe that every child deserves an opportunity to reach their fullest potential. Our team philosophy is to provide each gymnast with the means to succeed in both gymnastics and in life. Our program has been providing families in Alameda County with quality instruction for nearly four decades. Since 1984, we have been dedicated to helping children become the best version of themselves. At B.I.G, we are passionate about giving children the right tools to become successful. Our team philosophy is to ensure that each gymnast is equipped with the knowledge and skills to succeed in gymnastics and in life. We have been providing families in Alameda County with quality instruction for almost 40 years. Our program has been running since 1984, and we remain dedicated to helping children reach their highest potential. At B.I.G., we are committed to providing each gymnast with the means to succeed. Our team philosophy is to ensure that every child is given the tools necessary to succeed in gymnastics and in life. For almost 40 years, our program has been serving families in Alameda County and has been dedicated to helping children develop and thrive since 1984. We believe that every child deserves the chance to reach their highest potential.

At Mr. D’s Music Club, kids of all ages have the opportunity to explore music and creativity in a safe and inspiring environment. What started as a one-week summer camp in 2011 has blossomed into a full-fledged after school program and summer camp that serves hundreds of kids each year. The club is owned and operated by Stephen Duffy, an award-winning singer and songwriter with over two decades in the music industry. Stephen has produced and composed over a hundred albums and has been commissioned to compose for theater, dance, and video. He is currently the music director at Glenwood School in San Rafael, California, and is dedicated to helping children discover the joy of music. Mr. D's Music Club is widely recognized for its quality programs and the inspiration it brings to young kids. With the guidance of Stephen Duffy and his team of passionate instructors, kids of all ages can explore music and creativity in a safe and inspiring environment.

At Peralta Hacienda Historical Park in Oakland's Fruitvale, we strive to bring people together to understand, celebrate, and appreciate the diverse cultures that have been and continue to be part of California's vibrant identity. Our goal is to foster greater equity, environmental resilience, and a sense of belonging for all. Through our exhibits, events, and youth and community programs, we create a platform to heal historical wounds, take care of the land we depend on, and engage in civic life. By doing so, we hope to provide a model for other communities throughout the United States. At Peralta Hacienda Historical Park, we believe that by coming together to embrace our differences, we can build a better, more equitable future for all. We invite you to join us in creating a more vibrant and unified world for generations to come.

At East Bay Dance Center, parents and visitors can find a spacious and comfortable studio for their children to learn the art of dance. Our studio features hardwood floors, air-conditioning, a stage and a lobby for parents and visitors to relax in. Located in the Glenview District of Oakland, just off Park Boulevard, the studio is surrounded by a variety of restaurants, cafes, shops and businesses for everyone’s enjoyment and convenience. Our experienced staff offers professional and warm dance instruction for children of all ages. We are proud to offer classes that will help children to learn, grow and express themselves through dance. Contact us today to inquire about a trial class and learn more about the East Bay difference!

At our facility, we focus on providing parents and their children with comprehensive training in various areas, ranging from technique and strength, to physical education and biomechanics. Our experienced instructors teach students how to master self-defense and self-discipline, while exploring the history and music behind the movements. We understand that parents want their children to learn and gain the most from their training sessions. That's why we provide a personalized approach, with our experts designing custom programs to suit the individual needs of the student. With us, parents can rest assured that their kids are receiving the best instruction and guidance. Finally, we offer an added bonus of introducing students to maculelê and music through instruments and songs. Our goal is to ensure that our students are having fun while they are learning and developing their skills. We believe that the combination of physical and mental training will help them maximize their learning experience and fitness results.

At our overnight camp, middle-school-aged youth have an opportunity to explore the outdoors and get back to nature. Campers can discover hiking trails, milk goats, pick berries from a local farm, sleep under the stars, and read their favorite book in a tree. Our campers have the opportunity to learn about themselves, discovering strengths they never knew they had. By the end of the three-week camp, many campers feel as though they’ve been transported to another dimension. The camp is a place where they can be themselves, an opportunity to escape the day-to-day and feel connected with Mother Nature and their community in a new way. At our overnight camp, middle-school-aged youth find a unique opportunity to learn about themselves and explore the outdoors. Our campers have the chance to go on hikes, milk goats, pick berries from a farm, sleep under the stars, and read a book in a tree. Our campers can learn about themselves, discovering strengths they never knew they had and connecting with nature and their community in a special way. By the end of the camp, many of our campers report feeling like they’ve been taken to another world, gaining a new appreciation for themselves and the natural environment.

Parents, have you been searching for a way to get your children engaged in the performing arts? Look no further than our award-winning productions and stories, which are designed to capture the imaginations of children of all ages. Our after school and weekend classes, as well as our summer camps, provide kids with an opportunity to express themselves while building their performing arts skills. We also provide free arts education classes and lesson plans, which are designed to help children develop their creative thinking and social emotional learning. Our ultimate goal is to reach every child in the San Francisco Bay Area with theatre by the time they finish 5th grade. With our award-winning performances and stories, we can help your child unleash their imagination and gain invaluable performing arts skills.

Parents looking to introduce their children to Irish Dance in a safe, fun and supportive environment should look no further than the McBride School of Irish Dance. Founded in 1967 by Ann McBride, ADCRG, the McBride School has been providing quality Irish Dance instruction for over 50 years. Ann McBride and her daughter, Eileen McBride-Parker, have long shared a passion for teaching and are dedicated to fostering an appreciation of Irish Dance and Culture in their students. Accredited and registered with An Coimisiun Le Rince Gaelacha (CLRG) and the Irish Dance Teacher Association of North America (IDTANA), Western U.S. Region, the McBride School is proud to provide a safe, fun, and supportive environment for dancers of all levels. Join the McBride School and discover the joy of Irish Dance today!

Our specially designed Gymboree Play & Music classes are the perfect way to give your little one the best start in life. Combining new technology with classic learning techniques, our classes are designed to engage young minds and promote physical, cognitive, and social/emotional development. With an extensive range of options to choose from, there’s something for babies and toddlers up to 5 years of age. For over 40 years, Gymboree Play & Music has been the global leader in early childhood development programs. Our unique curriculum is designed to foster creativity and confidence in young children, with a focus on social/emotional, cognitive, and physical development. Get your little one off to the best possible start with our specially designed classes, which use a mix of new technology and classic learning techniques to keep their interest and promote their growth. With classes suitable for babies and toddlers up to 5 years old, Gymboree Play & Music has something for everyone.

At Ohana Aquatics, we are proud to provide a creative and comfortable atmosphere for teaching kids how to swim. Our swim school is located in the Oakland Hills near Merritt College, and is situated in a beautiful forest-like resort. The pool is kept at a warm 90/91 degrees throughout the year, making it the perfect place to learn. Our staff reflects the diverse cultures of our area, and they are friendly, professional, and always eager to learn and grow. We believe in the power of community and the importance of creating a safe, fun learning environment for our students. We invite you to come and experience the Ohana Aquatics family. If you’d like to learn more about Ohana Aquatics, feel free to contact us by phone or email. We’d love to answer any questions you may have and help you get started on your swimming journey.

Danspace was founded in 1979 by Beth Hoge, a professional dancer in New York with a vision for a school that would offer classical ballet training without the strain on the body. The school opened with adult ballet and pre-ballet for six year olds, with a children's division and creative movement added shortly after. In 1985, Danspace moved to its current location in Oakland's Rockridge neighborhood. Danspace continues to offer an enjoyable learning experience in a supportive environment, with a focus on the individual. The school's teaching staff are committed to providing a safe and encouraging environment for progress. All classes are based on the Corvino approach, with an emphasis on technique, musicality, artistry, and the development of strength and flexibility. Click here to download our brochure about Beth and learn more about her approach.

Kids ‘N Dance ‘N Theater Arts has been a part of Bay Area culture since 1996. What started out as a small dance studio in Lafayette has now evolved to become On Stage, a program that offers a wide range of activities from dance to musical theater to circus arts. With the opening of our large facility in Oakland, we are now able to offer an even broader range of programming for children. Our founder, Kris Mueller, has a passion for inspiring students. Our instructors, curriculum and approach to teaching help students to express their creativity and build their self-esteem. We believe that children should be encouraged to explore their talents by engaging in activities that are both fun and educational. We strive to create experiences that bring out the best in each student.

In 1988, Jill Vialet and Mary Marx co-founded MOCHA, an organization that brings innovative arts education programs to East Bay schools and communities. Through their work, MOCHA has been able to reach children in vulnerable communities, in public and private schools, in libraries, and at the Oakland-based studios and gallery. MOCHA works with artists, educators, parents, and students to use the power of art as a learning tool. Arts education is essential for young people’s social, emotional, and cultural growth. In the years since its inception, MOCHA has provided hands-on art learning experiences to nearly one million children. Through its programs, MOCHA has seen the positive effects art can have on children’s creativity, cognitive development, and sense of community.

Co-founder Deborah Vaughan has used her artistic leadership to make DDT a leading company in the dance world. Combining traditional and contemporary styles, DDT has created a unique and inclusive repertoire that has earned it national and international acclaim. Under Vaughan’s direction, the company has traveled to various countries, including Nigeria, Jordan, Germany, Zimbabwe, and Cuba, and performed throughout the United States. In an effort to further the African American dance form, DDT has collaborated with many influential musicians, singers and composers. Names like Hugh Masekela, the Edwin Hawkins Singers, Cab Calloway, Omar Sosa and Anthony Brown are just a few of the artists that have worked with DDT to further advance the African American dance art form. With such a unique and dynamic presence, it’s no wonder DDT is one of the most recognized dance companies in the world.

At UAC, we believe that summer camp should be a meaningful and unique experience. Children are free to explore and discover in a safe and stimulating environment. Our programs take children on educational field trips to the best museums, science centers and parks in the Bay Area. Qualified instructors with subject knowledge and experience working with children lead our programs, providing an in-depth source of information for students. We strive to create a summer camp experience that will be both fun and educational, giving your child an opportunity to follow their own interests and discover new ones.

The Oakland Symphony is comprised of the professional orchestra, the Oakland Symphony Chorus, and the Oakland Symphony Youth Orchestra. Additionally, a staff of volunteers, board members, and community supporters help promote symphonic music in the East Bay. The organization has roots that can be traced back to 1933, when the original Oakland Symphony was founded. After its closure in 1986, the Chorus and Youth Orchestra split into two independent organizations. In 2010, the three ensembles reunited under the name of Oakland East Bay Symphony, and in 2020 reclaimed its original name, Oakland Symphony. All of these components united under one organization are working hard to keep classical and symphonic music alive in Oakland.

Rock Paper Scissors Collective is a unique nonprofit organization that encourages creativity and collaboration to help strengthen local communities. Through workshops, events, exhibitions, and retail of independently produced goods, RPSC promotes the sharing of ideas, skills, and resources. The organization also works to explore alternative models through non-hierarchical, consensus-based organizing. All activities are led by members and volunteers, and the organization is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit. RPSC's mission is to celebrate art, craft, education, and performance by offering low-cost creative workshops and a variety of community events. These activities are designed to engage and empower youth in the community, as well as encourage sustainable creative practices. Rock Paper Scissors Collective provides an invaluable service to local communities. It's an organization that brings together members and volunteers to foster creativity and collaboration. Through their unique approach to non-hierarchical, consensus-based organizing, they are able to provide a safe and inspiring space for people to share ideas, skills, and resources. As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, RPSC is dedicated to encouraging sustainable creative practices and exploring alternative models.

With the help of generous donors, we are able to provide memorable experiences to our diverse community. From families to students, Oakland Ballet Company is proud to inspire and educate all ages with the beauty of dance. We invite you to join us in our mission of giving back to the community. Your support and donations are what keep the art of dance alive and accessible to all. From the young to the old, Oakland Ballet Company is committed to providing the highest quality of dance to our diverse audience. We greatly appreciate your investment in us.

At AXIS, we are dedicated to encouraging collaboration between high profile choreographers and innovative dance makers, to create significant and impactful dance works. We build bridges between contemporary dance, integrated dance, and disability culture, and provide programming and events for all ages and abilities. Our pre-professional training ground provides aspiring disabled dancers and choreographers the opportunity to hone their craft. We are committed to creating opportunities for disabled people to engage in dance, both locally and abroad, by promoting access, inclusion, and equity in dance and the wider community. Our dedication to collaboration leads to unique and meaningful works that benefit all involved.

Junior Center of Art and Science Summer Camp is the perfect place for rising 1st-8th graders to express their creative side. Our camp is led by professional artists and educators who provide a safe, open, and creative environment for campers to take risks and explore. Campers will have the opportunity to try their hand at a variety of arts and science activities, such as carpentry, game design, comics, and more. They'll be able to express themselves through art and science while having fun in the process. At Junior Center of Art and Science Summer Camp, we offer full day, arts-integrated engagements for young artists, makers, and thinkers. Our campers will be able to explore their creativity and learn to take risks in a safe and encouraging atmosphere. Professional artists and educators provide an open space for campers to engage in activities such as carpentry, game design, comics, and much more. Campers are able to have fun and express themselves through a variety of mediums. Junior Center of Art and Science Summer Camp is the perfect place for rising 1st-8th graders who want to explore their creative side. Our campers will be able to take risks and try their hand at a wide variety of arts and science activities in a safe and open environment. Professional artists and educators are on hand to provide guidance and inspiration. Campers will have the opportunity to engage in activities such as carpentry, game design, comics, and more, allowing them to have fun and explore their creativity.

It is with this spirit that Temple Beth Abraham (TBA) is proud to endorse the Committee on Jewish Laws and Standards’ December 6, 2006 decision to permit Conservative rabbis to perform commitment ceremonies and allow the ordination of gays and lesbians. We also enthusiastically support the USCJ’s decision to revise its hiring policies and consider applicants for United Synagogue jobs regardless of sexual orientation. At TBA, we strive to create a synagogue community in which all members and visitors feel welcome and included. We are dedicated to providing an environment where everyone can come together in prayer and study, in celebration and grief, in joy and in sorrow. We look forward to continuing to provide this welcoming atmosphere for all of our members and visitors.

This Oakland-based organization was founded and led mainly by women and People of Color. Their mission is to challenge oppressive dynamics and environments through urban farming and access to the natural environment. ANV is dedicated to elevating the lives of youth and their families in Oakland and beyond. The organization strives to create safe and creative outdoor spaces for youth and families to learn about nutrition, food production, healthy living, and the natural environment. Through these initiatives, ANV works to strengthen the ties between the young people and their families, as well as their connection with the community.

At Galileo Innovation Camp, we understand the importance of nurturing our campers’ innovative potential. That’s why we’ve developed the Galileo Innovation Approach, or “GIA”, an exclusive three-part framework. We believe that all innovators need the right mindset, knowledge, and process to bring their best ideas to life. At camp, the GIA helps our campers develop a mindset that promotes innovative thinking, giving them the tools to ask the right questions and come up with creative solutions. We also provide our campers with the substantive knowledge they need to guide their breakthrough ideas and bring them to fruition. Finally, the GIA serves as a process that provides our campers with the support they need to make their innovations a reality. At Galileo Innovation Camp, we use the GIA as a lens to help our campers reach their full potential. Through this approach, we’re able to ensure that our campers have the support they need to unlock their innovative potential and bring their best ideas to life.

At Linda Dorsey School of the Arts (LDSOA), we strive to provide an environment that nurtures the intellectual, emotional, character, and social development of our students. Our experienced faculty of instructors are passionate about teaching the performing arts, and use it to build confidence, self-esteem, and teamwork in our students. We offer a variety of classes in dance, acting, singing, and performance. LDSOA is a 501(c)3 Non-Profit Organization founded in Teaneck, NJ in 1998, and now located in Oakland, CA at 3700 E. 12 Street. We are proud to share space with Kuida Te Fitness Center, and are committed to providing fun and engaging performing arts education to children and adults alike. With our unique approach, we hope to help students develop the skills and discipline to succeed in their future endeavors.

We are an organization of Third World artists, cultural workers, and community organizers of color committed to working in the San Antonio and other Oakland neighborhoods to support a creative environment that improves the quality of life for our communities and advocates for progressive, systemic social change.

At Park’n It Day Camp, we’re passionate about promoting the health and well-being of kids through outdoor activities. We’ve joined the Healthy Parks Healthy People initiative, which encourages kids to get active in parks and green spaces. Our goal is to help them grow into eco-literate adults who understand and care about the environment. Research shows that when kids engage in active outdoor recreation, it has a positive impact on their physical and mental health. At Park’n It Day Camp, we’re committed to giving kids the opportunity to explore the great outdoors and reap the benefits of a healthy, active lifestyle. We’re proud to be part of the Healthy Parks Healthy People initiative and look forward to helping more kids discover the joys of being active in parks and green spaces.