About Oakland
Oakland is the biggest city in Alameda County as well as the largest city by population in the East Bay region of the San Francisco Bay Area. A major trade center for the area - with the Port of Oakland is the busiest port in California - Oakland is home to many diversified businesses including those in health care, transportation, retail trade, light manufacturing, and others. This city is also known for its mild Mediterranean-type climate, with warm sunny summers and cool winters, and is home to many interesting locals--both young and old.
With its many local vendors and unique event venues, Oakland is a great spot to host a party of all kinds. From engagements and birthday celebrations to pre, present, and post-wedding ceremonies - not to mention corporate parties of all shapes and sizes - Oakland is a the place to make your party celebration all that you want it to be.
Party Vendor Options in Oakland, CA
No matter the kind of party you are hosting – a big corporate party or a small, intimate one -- there are dozens of party vendors who can help lend a hand in Oakland. Hire a few to make your big day unforgettable.
- Caterers
You’ll find dozens of first-rate restaurants and catering services for your Oakland party. Whether you want local seafood or something more outlandish, you’ll find just the caterer who can provide it.
- Photographers
Want quality photos of your party? Oakland photographers will document memories from your party in a professional manner, and provide the best souvenir money can buy - photos of your event!
- Florists
Oakland is a beautiful city with lots of trees and flowers making up its landscape. And there are many local florists who can bring the city’s diverse beauty to your event. Hire one to ensure your Oakland party venue is nothing short of radiant and glamorous.
- Equipment Rentals
An equipment rental company can supply all the equipment you need to bring your Oakland party to life! Oakland equipment rental vendors have state-of-the-art equipment, including projectors, sound, audio tools, and entertainment options.
- Event Planners
Planning a special party event? Oakland’s many professional event planners have the skills, props, and chops to make your party event dreams a reality. They can work with you to establish your party theme and produce your event under budget.
Event Planning Companies in Oakland, California
- Barbara Llewellyn Catering and Event Planning
Barbara Llewellyn Catering and Event Planning is an Oakland-based event planning outfit that offers catering services in addition to its professional party planning services. Apart from helping put your event together, they offer a tailored a la carte menu that all your guests will enjoy. From a casual party with a few people in your living room to the most opulent soirée, they can put your Oakland party on the map.
- Jenni Grubba Events
Jenni Grubba Events is an event planning and design company based in Oakland. With over a decade of experience in executing events, Jenni is one of the highly-rated event planners in the city, and will help you plan an experience like no other. Hire her to scout venues and vendors, budget your event, and build and style it down to the smallest of details.
- Event Magic
Event Magic is a one-stop shop for party prop rentals and an event planning company in Oakland. You can develop a fully functional event plan (with props) guaranteed to wow your guests. They coordinate and assist with the production of social occasions, such as charity functions, weddings, showers, bachelor and bachelorette parties, among others.
Pros and Cons of Having a Party in Oakland
Pros:
- Great location
You can easily find your way to other major cities in California like San Francisco and Berkeley.
- Active nightlife
Oakland boasts a great nightlife experience that you can enjoy when in the city.
- Reliable public transportation
Transportation in Oakland is easily accessible to the public.
- Affordable
The cost of living in Oakland is cheaper when compared to what is obtainable in San Francisco and some other major cities in the state.
Cons:
- Crime
The crime rate in Oakland is higher than the national average. However, there has been a drop in crime in recent years.
- Hot summers
Oakland can be very hot and humid during the summer.
- Sales tax
Oakland has a high city sales tax. Be prepared to pay extra tax on retail goods purchased in the city.
Famous Party Locations in Oakland, California
Visit one of these famous Oakland destinations after your party to keep the party fun going strong!
- Tilden Regional Park
Catch fresh air and enjoy the cool breeze at Tilden Regional Park. This 2,079-acre park has many hiking trails and picnic facilities, making it a great family-friend spot to post-party picnics and photos. You can also have your kids ride the steam train and feed some of the animals in the park’s little farm, as well.
- Oakland Zoo
Feast your eyes with the sight of different wildlife creatures at the Oakland Zoo - one of the best attractions in Oakland, CA. The Oakland Zoo is home to over 850 native and exotic animals, and has a small amusement park with rides for kids.
- Reinhardt Redwood Regional Park
This 1883-acre park is full of 100-plus feet-tall redwoods, evergreens, chaparral, and grasslands, as well as wildlife like deer, golden-eagles, raccoons and rabbits. It also has four unique picnic spots - with room for 150 people - making it a perfect destination to relax or to catch a picnic with all your party guests.
