This year’s last First Friday in Oakland was a joyous occasion as the event takes a two-month hiatus in the hopes of returning the following year.
Even though the city is currently making significant changes to public safety, Friday night was about a community uniting and sharing love and happiness.
As children played in the faux snow, Oakland on 23rd and Telegraph was transformed into a winter paradise. However, it wasn’t even the night’s high point.
Spiritual questioned, “Wait, is this the real Santa?”
Spiritual was thrilled to show Santa a few things from her wish list, and the children were given a taste of the holiday season.
“A robot that can remind me to be good.,” she replied. “You know what, really. I’d like a doll. An actual doll. In fact, that’s what I desire.”
This was not only a youth event. At eighty-one, Auntie has spent nearly her whole life in Oakland. She has witnessed the town’s highs and lows, but occasions like this one give her hope for the future.
Auntie remarked, “It means Oakland is still alive,”
It’s an opportunity for the sellers to advertise their businesses and for individuals to donate money directly to the community. According to Desirae Rosgen of Noah’s Jamaican Jerk Chicken, their business really benefits from First Fridays.
They currently depend on these kinds of events to maintain their business.
“Events like these are definitely so very helpful for small businesses who are on their rise to being more brick and mortar,” Rosgen stated. “Being more traditional.”
However, this event depends on sponsors to continue each year. To revive the street fair, organizers are always soliciting money. The following First Friday in March is the target for 2025.
According to Courtney Russell of the Koreatown Northgate District, “We want this to continue because it is truly a labor of love and how much we do every month on repeat.”
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Eliot Pierce is a dedicated writer for ChiefsFocus.com, covering local crime and finance news. With a keen eye for detail and a passion for storytelling, Eliot aims to provide his readers with clear and insightful analysis, helping them navigate the complexities of their financial lives while staying informed about important local events. His commitment to delivering accurate and engaging content makes him a valuable resource for the community.