Outside Lands Music Festival

            Image From Wikimedia and Edward Betts

Outside Lands in San Francisco starts this weekend, and we are so excited for all of the great acts that are performing during this annual music festival. This year Outside Lands will be held at Golden Gate Park from Friday-Sunday. This festival brings thousands of people into San Francisco for one weekend only, but you are lucky enough to just live a short distance away from the festival. You do not need to worry about lodging or long distance transportation. Keep reading to learn more about this great music festival. 

Tickets

Do not get discouraged by the Outside Lands website. The tickets are sold out through the official vendor, but StubHub has some tickets for resale that you can purchase.  These tickets are at your own risk, but StubHub assures that the tickets are official festival passes. There are a few different passes and groupings that you can pick from on StubHub so make sure to check out what is available before this weekend.

Transportation To The Festival

Once you have your tickets, you have to figure out how to get there. Golden Gate Park is only 30 minutes from Berkeley Central, but parking is very limited in the park and the surrounding areas. This is why we recommend using the Muni. You have two options to get to the festival each day.

        1) Option one is to take the BART to Civic Center Station. Then, from McAllister Street and      

        Jones Street take Muni Bus #5 to 25th Avenue and Fulton Street. You can then enter the  

        park. 

        2) Option two is to take the AC Transit Transbay Express or F Line Across the Bay Bridge. 

        Then, from the Transbay Terminal walk to Montgomery Street Station. Finally take the Muni 

        Line N to 19th Avenue and Judah Street. You can then walk north on 19th avenue to 

        Golden Gate Park. 

Schedule

You have your tickets and transportation all planned, but what about which acts you want to see.  You can start Friday with Mumford and Sons performance on the Lands End Stage at 7:55 pm. Saturday afternoon is the perfect time to take a break from the music and laugh with the comedians of the Upright Citizens Brigade. Their set starts at 3pm on The Barbary Stage. Finally, you can see The Black Keys or Kendrick Lamar on Saturday night. The Black Keys will take the Lands End stage at 8:25 pm, and Kendrick Lamar will perform on the Twin Peaks Stage at 8:40 pm. 

We think you will have a great time at this year’s Outside Lands festival. Make sure to upload your pictures to the Berkeley Central Facebook Page. 

A Drink, A Meal, and A Patio

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We love being outdoors in the summertime. This includes dinners, baseball games, happy hours or even just for a hike. However, there are so many gorgeous patios to drink and dine on this seems like the perfect way to spend your time outdoors this summer. Berkeley Central is close to so many of these spots that we thought we would highlight a few of our favorites. Here are a few great establishments where you can enjoy your love of the outdoors and food. 

Perdition Smokehouse

Located right in Berkeley, about a quarter of a mile from Berkeley Central is the Perdition Smokehouse. This Texas-style BBQ is served on outdoor picnic tables for you to enjoy the weather on. They also have a great beer selection with 43 American craft beers on tap. You can get a meat plate, corn bread, two sides and all the craft beer you want at this great Texas-styled restaurant. If you are craving some good Texas food, this is the place to go in Berkeley.

Westbrae Biergarten

This biergarten is another Berkeley favorite. Located just five minutes from your home at Berkley Central this outdoor restaurant is perfect for the after work happy hour. You can enjoy a giant sun-soaked biergarten with communal tables and Adirondack chairs. Take in the Giants game with their big flat screen TV’s while enjoying one of the local German-style beers on tap. You can also grab some food at the permanent pop-up kitchen or the food trucks that stop by a few times each week. 

Missouri Lounge

Just five minutes away from Berkeley Central is the Missouri Lounge.  This chill atmosphere has a no-frills patio that matches the bar’s insides. You can bring your dog and enjoy the DJ Booth on the patio. For five dollars, you get a beer, a shot, and whatever they are grilling outside!

These are just three of the great outdoor spaces for you to enjoy during these summer nights. Do you have a favorite outdoor space to eat or grab a drink after work? Share yours on our Facebook Page under this post!

Relaxing Day at the Spa

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Work, relationships and friendships can all be rewarding but also stressful in our lives. One of our favorite things to do is pick a day that is only for ourselves. These “me days” are great for relaxing and letting your stresses melt away. 

Everyone has their own way of de-stressing, but we prefer massages and spas. We love being pampered from head to toe during our “me days” with massages, skin treatments and pedicure/manicures. Berkeley Central is close to many great spas that you can use for your own personal “me day”.

Ensoma SF

Ensoma San Francisco specializes in a complete day to help you relax. Their packages include waxing, facials and more in their all encompassing art and beauty lounge. These treatments at Ensoma are customized to your body and your concerns. This makes the experience unique to you and what you want to focus on during your “me day”. Make sure to make reservations early at their website for your preferred time and day. 

I-Spa San Francisco

Located in the Intercontinental Hotel, the I-Spa is the perfect “me day” paradise. Your treatments are customized to your personal body and what you want to focus on that day. A great day of stress relief at I-Spa starts with one of the various massages that they offer. After you are relaxed, show your skin some pampering with their many facial treatments. Finally, finish your day with giving your hands and feet a manicure and pedicure. Make sure to book ahead of time through their website to get your preferred treatment slots.

The Spa Oakland

This spa is a little further away from Berkeley Central, but it is worth the drive. The Spa Oakland has the motto of “Calm the Mind, Heal the Body, Renew the Spirit”, and that is exactly what will happen after your trip to The Spa. You will get the complete relaxation package with a massage and some time in their sauna. You will leave The Spa Oakland ready to conquer your professional and personal goals for the next year. 

These are just a few of the many spas in the Bay Area. We hope that you can take a day for yourself and relax at one of these great massage and spa centers. 

A Tasty Treat On A Hot Day

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The weekend should be a time to relax and enjoy the beautiful city that we live in. It also should be a time to enjoy some delicious treats. San Francisco has hundreds of great places to enjoy a cold dessert or treat.  If you are in the mood for some ice cream or gelato, we have found a few great places that you can try near your home at Berkeley Central. 

Scream Sorbet

Scream Sorbet is known throughout the San Francisco area for their dense, creamy and delicious sorbet. Their key to this success is that they start with fresh ingredients with every batch. They use the Bay Area's farmers' markets to find the best organic seasonal ingredients to make their delicious sorbets throughout the week. They also hand make every quart of sorbet, because they want every single scoop to taste like the fresh ingredients that it came from. These qualities make Scream Sorbet the best treat for a hot summer's day. You can find Scream Sorbet at 5030 Telegraph Ave. Oakland, CA 94609.

Ici Ice Cream

When we want cold ice cream cone after a long day, we head to Ici Ice Cream on 2948 College Ave. in Berkeley. Ici Ice Cream is known for making all of their flavors right in the store. They are made in small batches using local organic ingredients each day so each bite tastes the same.  You can enjoy a simple ice cream cone at Ici Ice, or you can order a delicious treat for your next party or occasion. They have 11 flavors of ice cream to choose from each day that you can enjoy in multiple ways including their hand rolled chocolate dipped cones. This sounds like the perfect place to enjoy a perfect cold treat after a long week.

CREAM

In 2010, the Shamieh family opened the first CREAM location in Berkeley. Five years later, they are still making their one of a kind cookie ice cream sandwiches and other delicious treats. Besides their delicious desserts, CREAM is also known for it's spontaneity. Walking into any location could mean walking into a dance party or karaoke session at any time. CREAM has 20 flavors of ice cream to mix with their toppings and other desserts. You could create a new combination with each purchase. Start with your favorite flavor by checking out CREAM at 2399 Telegraph Ave. Berkeley, CA 94704.

Reading about all this ice cream makes us very excited for the desserts we will have this weekend. Try one of these great ice cream shops with your friends this weekend and see what flavor will be your new favorite!

San Francisco and Berkeley Fireworks

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Saturday we get to celebrate Independence day all across the United States. We love celebrating the Fourth of July in San Francisco and Berkeley. We are lucky enough to have one the best Fourth of July fireworks displays in the country. Watching the fireworks over the bay is something that every resident must do at least once. There are many viewing spots all throughout San Francisco and Berkeley. Here are a few locations to check out that are close to Berkeley Central.

Indian Rock Park

You can climb up onto a volcanic rock that is approximately 11 million years old in Berkeley. This formation is located in a residential neighborhood in Berkeley. The address is 950 Indian Rock Ave, Berkeley, CA 94707. This location gives you an unobstructed view of the entire bay area.

West Bluffs

Maybe you want to have an all day picnic for your Fourth of July festivities. The West Bluffs might be your ideal location for this Saturday. There is a big field picnic area on Crissy Field for you to use for your party. At this location on Marine Drive, you can view the Golden Gate Bridge, the Marin Headlands and Angel Island. This gives you a great view of the fireworks you have been waiting all year for.

California HornBlower

Maybe you want a more elegant evening for the Fourth of July. The Hornblower's San Francisco Belle Cruise might be the perfect night away. This cruise costs $154 dollars, but it includes a dinner buffet, a hosted wine and beer bar and a three in a half hour cruise to enjoy the night and see the fireworks. This cruise includes live entertainment leading up the main event at dark. This gives you a rare up close and personal view of the bay area show. You can learn more and purchase tickets for the cruise here.

Twin Peaks

If you are looking for more of an intimate viewing area, consider driving up to Twin Peaks. You can bring a blanket to cozy up and not only watch San Francisco's fireworks but also Berkeley's and Sausalito's.

We hope that you have a safe and wonderful Fourth of July with your friends and family. Do you have a favorite viewing spot for the fireworks? Comment with your location on our Facebook Page under this post!

Your Perfect San Francisco Date Night

Image From Wikipedia

What is your ideal date night? Dinner and a movie is always a classic choice, but we have a few more creative ideas for you to try. San Francisco has great places to surprise your date any day of the week. Keep reading our blog to see a few of our great date night ideas.

Skeeball Tour

Are you a skeeball champion? Brush up on your arcade skills with a skeeball tour of San Francisco.  Joey the Cat is the national skeeball champion and he will help you improve your skills while trying out different skeeball machines around San Francisco. You can book this fun night out at joeythecat.com.

Mystery Bike Ride

Riding a bike around the city can be a cute romantic date. However, what about riding a bike to a mystery location that ends with an after hours party. This seems like way more fun.  Thanks to Midnight Mystery this could be your future date night. The locations and times of these fun events are announced the day of the event, so make sure to check their website often!

Roller Disco

Do you want to flashback to the sixites or seventies? The Roller Disco in San Francisco is the event for you. The Church of Eight Wheels holds a roller disco only a short drive from Berkeley. You can find their schedule at their website Church of 8 Wheels. 

Boat Ride

Are you looking for more of a relaxing romantic evening? Make sure to schedule a boat ride at Stow Lake. The gorgeous view and quiet environment will be the perfect setting for getting to know your date. Make sure to bring snacks and drinks that you can enjoy on your intimate boat ride. Learn more about Stow Lake by clicking here. 

These are just a few of the many types of date nights you can have in San Francisco. Trying something new is a great way to learn details about your friend or loved one. After you have tried these ideas, make sure to head to Thrillist for more great date nights.

A Relaxing Day Away

Image From Pixabay

Are you looking for a nice relaxing weekend? One that will let you get rid of all the stresses and worries you have during your professional life. San Francisco has many spas and retreats that will let you do just that any day of the week. Whether you want to pamper your skin or give your muscles a break, all of these spas will help you de-stress and unwind.

Ensoma SF

Just a short 20 minute drive from Berkeley Central you will find Ensoma SF. This spa is the perfect place to relax and unwind with the many different treatments they have available. You can get a massage catered to your personal needs to start off your day of pampering. Then, make an appointment for a facial to treat your skin at this art and beauty lounge. Make sure to make appointments ahead of time for all of their treatments. You can make reservations right on their website. 

The Spa Oakland

Only ten miles away from Berkeley Central is The Spa Oakland. The motto of this spa is "Calm the Mind, Heal the Body, Renew the Spirit". This motto is perfect for this spa that specializes in relaxation and tranquility. You can start your day off with a massage. You can pick from the many options that they offer for this treatment. After your massage, take some "me time" and visit their sauna to forget about all the stresses that life is throwing at you. Make sure to book ahead because these appointments can fill up fast.

I-Spa San Francisco

I-Spa, located at the Intercontinental Hotel, is just a short drive over the bay from Berkeley. This spa and hotel is perfect for a girls weekend away from everyday life.  This spa offers many different services to pamper your every need.  You can start your day with a massage that is customizable to your personal tastes and needs. Then, treat your skin with one of the many facial treatments that are offered at the salon. Finally, pamper your nails with a manicure and pedicure to complete your perfect day away. Make sure to book ahead of time through their website to get your preferred time.

These are just three of the many spas in and around the Berkeley/San Francisco area. We think that you can find your perfect day of relaxation with the treatments these spas have available. 

Best Bay Area Beaches

Image From Wikipedia

We are so ready to lay out and get a tan on the beautiful coastline of San Francisco.  Beaches, surfing, and relaxing are some of the best parts of summer.  San Francisco is home to some of the best beaches in California.  There is a beach for every taste and summer activity imaginable.  The best part is that they are all within driving distance of your home at Berkeley Central.

Ocean Beach

Ocean Beach is the biggest beach in all of San Francisco. This beach stretches three miles along the San Francisco coast, giving you plenty of room to relax and enjoy the sun.  This is also one of the most popular beaches in San Francisco be sure to plan ahead to avoid summer tourist crowds.  Surfing, swimming, and even walking your dog are all allowed in certain areas up and down the coastline. For an extra special touch, pack a picnic lunch to go. Ocean Beach makes a perfect day or weekend trip, as it is located approximately 50 minutes away from your apartment home at Berkeley Central.

Aquatic Park

This Urban Beach is located right in the heart of the city, within close proximity to the popular attractions of Fisherman’s Wharf and Ghirardelli Square. Aquatic Park is a "bay beach," which means the water is softer and the sand is easier to walk on.  It is the perfect beach to take a walk or relax in the surf without worrying about rocks or rough waters.  Aquatic Park is a little over an hour away from home, so it is the perfect getaway with your friends and family for a day out.

Stinson Beach

If you feel like traveling a little, journey across the Bay Bridge into Marin County for a visit to Stinson Beach.  If you are looking for more than a day to lay out in the sun, Stinson Beach is your ideal Bay Area beach, as it has access to state park hiking trails near the Muir Woods. There are also picnic and swimming areas on the premises.

These are merely a few of the beaches that await you in the San Francisco Bay Area. Comment below with some of your favorite beaches, or share them on our Facebook and Twitter pages!

Broadway in San Francisco

Berkeley Central is close to many arts and cultural events throughout the year. We are even lucky enough to be close to the Orpheum Theatre which brings in Broadway shows throughout the year. This year we have a few Tony Award winners coming for your viewing pleasure. Check out these shows throughout the year in San Francisco. 

Matilda

The classic book from your childhood comes to life on stage as this cast of children and adults take you through Matilda's journey. This musical won five Tony's in it's first year on Broadway. This hilarious story features Matilda and her famous teacher Miss Trunchbull. See how the children revolt against their teacher in this famous Ronald Dahl story. Make sure to get tickets for this musical! The show will begin it's run on July 15th.

Phantom of the Opera

This long running Broadway show is coming to San Francisco this summer. This musical opened in 1986, and has played to millions of fans all over the world. Watch this supernatural romance unfold between the opera singer and the Phantom that haunts the theater. The musical has won five Tony awards along with a slew of other award from the Drama Desk and Outer Critics Circle. Check out Phantom of the Opera starting on August 19th.

If/Then

A brand new musical will grace the San Francisco stage on it's first national tour. Which path would you choose? That is the theme of this new rock musical. Idina Menzel of Let it Go Fame, will be reprising her role on the first seven stops of this tour. Explore the life of Elizabeth as she discovers the pros and cons to her decisions she is making as a women trying to start her life over. You can catch If/Then starting on November 10th.

These three great shows are just a few of the plays and musicals making their way to the Orpheum Theatre.  All of these shows are close to home at a short twelve mile drive from Berkeley Central Apartments. Get your tickets now for this great Broadway season in San Francisco.

Beaches and Day Trips

Image from Wikimedia

Are you looking for a way to escape this weekend? We think a quick day trip or a day at the beach is the perfect way to relax, away from the stress of life. San Francisco has plenty of nice beaches and close trips that are perfect for your stress free weekend.  The best part is these places are close to Berkeley Central.

Day Trip 1

Head to Fenton, CA on State 9 to have a nice relaxing day away. Just an hour drive south of San Francisco will land you in this quaint town that has an amazing cafe and an adventurous way to explore the outdoors. Your first stop before you hit the beautiful trails is Rocky’s Cafe. You must try their delicious blueberry pancakes. Then, head to the Felton Redwoods to zip-line through nature with Redwood Canopy Tours. This quaint little town has just enough adventure for a perfect day away from home.

Day Trip 2

Ocean Beach is the biggest beach in all of San Francisco. This beach stretches three miles along the San Francisco coast, giving you plenty of room to relax and enjoy the sun. This is also one of the most popular beaches in San Francisco so be careful about when you go. Surfing, swimming, and even walking your dog are all allowed in certain areas throughout the coastline. This is a perfect weekend trip, 30 minutes away from your home at Berkeley Central.

Day Trip 3

If you feel like traveling a little, make sure to cross the Bay Bridge to Stinson Beach. You can venture to Marin Country and take the long winding drive to Muir Woods. It has easy access to hiking, picnicking, and swimming all along the coast.

These three day trips are the perfect way to take a break from life and relax for the weekend. What is your favorite day trip in San Francisco?

Berkeley In The Summer

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School is out for summer at the University of Berkeley, but there are still plenty of things to do if you are in Berkeley for the summer. The best part is that these are all very close to Berkeley Central. Concerts, museums, and festivals are just some of the events you can look forward to within Berkeley this year.  

Step Up Your Instagram Game

Every Thursday from 3pm-4pm you can practice your Instagraming skills thanks to the UC Botanical Garden.  Every Thursday is a butterfly walk in their butterfly exhibit.  This event is free with general admission to the Botanical Garden.  Walk among the beautiful butterflies while taking pictures of the beautiful nature surrounding you.

Science Fiction Sundays

The Lawrence Hall of Science has many exhibits that you can explore throughout the summer.  However, Sundays are perfect for the science fiction lover. Sundays at Lawrence include interactive exhibits featuring some of the best elements of science fiction. You can learn how some of these sci fi elements could become a reality with new scientific discoveries. This event is open on Sundays through September.

Berkeley Playhouse

Are you looking for a relaxing night away from the heat? There are plenty of shows all summer at the Berkeley Playhouse for you to see.  These shows include students to adults of all ages as they produce some of the most well known shows in musical theater.  You can get tickets for all of their various shows at their website.

These are just a few of the many activities that you can participate in during your summer in Berkeley.  Do not forget to check out the local festivals that are occurring all summer. Do you have any events? Make sure to post about them on the Berkeley Central Facebook Page.

Memorial Day in San Francisco

Image From Wikimedia.

We are so excited for the long weekend for Memorial Day!  Cookouts, parties, and events will be everywhere as people celebrate the unofficial first day of summer.  There are plenty of great events happening around Berkeley Central and San Francisco.  We have found a few great events for you to attend this weekend.  

Memorial Day Parade

Are you looking for a classic Memorial Day parade? On Monday,  the Presidio Main Post and National Cemetery will be host to the annual Memorial Day Parade and Commemoration.  The events start Monday at 10:30am. This event will include a parade, presentations, and a 21 gun salute.  The 21 gun salute will occur at noon, and it will be presented by the U.S. Army’s 75th Pacific Division.  These events will commemorate the 70th anniversary of the end of World War II and the 40th anniversary of the end of the Vietnam War.

California Roots

You can also spend your weekend soaking up the sun and music at the California Roots Festival.  This all weekend music festival starts Friday at the Monterey County Fairgrounds. This event includes over 30 bands within various music genres. You can also take in a few yoga sessions before exploring the arts vendors and food options. You can find festival schedules and ticket information at their website California Roots Festival.

Carnaval Celebration

If you want to stay a little closer to home, the Carnaval Celebration will be held in the Mission District of San Francisco. The festival is free and runs along Market Street. Shop the street vendors while enjoying performances and various foods at this annual celebration. You can learn more about this two day long street fair here.

However you celebrate your Memorial Day, we hope you have a great time with family and friends.  Do you have any Memorial Day events? Share them on our Facebook page this weekend with your fellow residents at Berkeley Central.

May Festivals In San Francisco

Spring is here! This means that it is festival season across San Francisco. There are many festivals that you can attend in San Francisco. No matter what your interest, there will probably be a festival that you can enjoy this year. Berkeley Central Apartments have found a few festivals for you to check out this spring and summer.

American Graffiti Festival

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Do you remember the movie American Graffiti?  This coming of age story from George Lucas has an event in San Francisco every year. This Saturday in downtown Petaluma come celebrate American Graffiti. This event is free and includes art shows, a car cruise, and live music.  This movie was originally filmed in Petaluma in 1972.  You can learn more and find out the event schedule by clicking here.

San Francisco International Arts Festival

This International Arts Festival starts on May 21st and continues until June 7th. There are many events occurring over this three week period. This festival includes music, dance, and visual arts all displayed throughout the festival. Make sure to check out the calendar before you leave for the festival. Some events are free and open to the public, while others you need to buy tickets ahead of time. The festival is held at the Fort Mason Center.  You can learn more by visiting their website SFIAF.org.

San Francisco Carnaval Festival 2015

On May 23-24th, come watch as Harrison Street is turned into a party of food, colors, music, and events for Carnaval. This two day festival spans Harrison Street from 16th-24th street. Parades, music entertainment, and delicious food are included in this schedule of activities celebrating the many cultures of the world. This event is free, but there are some performances that you may need tickets. Please visit Carnaval San Francisco for more information.

We cannot wait to visit some of these festivals around San Francisco. Make sure to keep up with our blog to see what other great events and festivals will be happening around San Diego this summer.

We cannot wait to visit some of these festivals around San Diego. Make sure to keep up with our blog to see what other great events and festivals will be happening around San Francisco this summer.

Cinco de Mayo in Berkeley

Happy Cinco de Mayo to all of our residents at Berkeley Central! Are you celebrating with friends and family today?  We have found some great local restaurants with Cinco de Mayo parties for you to check out.  Make your way after work to one of these great establishments and enjoy the holiday specials after a long day.  

Comal

Comal is not only celebrating Cinco de Mayo, they are also celebrating their third anniversary. You can try their unique menu that includes a special spiced rum cocktail and a special snack that includes fried masa cakes with grasshoppers. You can also enjoy the nice weather as the back patio will be open with a live DJ. Coal is located in Berkeley.

FIVE Restaurant and Bar

Five will be hosting a great Cinco de Mayo special in Berkeley. You can enjoy a four course dinner with a tequila pairing menu for your Cinco de Mayo feast.  This all inclusive dinner is $55.00 a person. 

Cinco de Mayo Community Celebration

Finally, at 8pm tonight you can join Berkeley in a Cinco de Mayo Community Celebration. You can head to Freight and Salvage at for a night of music with friends  This event is $14.00 in advance or $18.00 at the door. It is a perfect way to finish your Cinco de Mayo celebration.

There are many more places to celebrate Cinco de Mayo with your friends after work.  Margarita and taco specials are at many locations throughout the Bay Area. If you want more information on these places, or any other restaurants in the Bay Area you can check out SF Eater.  We hope everyone has a safe and happy Cinco de Mayo.

Art And Culture in San Francisco

We love the art and culture in San Francisco.  Dance, theater, art, and music are all displayed in various aspects throughout our community.  We are lucky enough to have many art events that are just a short commute from Berkeley Central.  There is something for everyone in our gorgeous city.  Here are some of the best art events going on right now in the Bay Area.

Are you looking for something to do with your mother this Mother’s Day?  The Exploratorium in San Francisco is holding a Mother’s Day special.  You can explore these great exhibits for free all day.  The Exploratorium features creative exhibits that include science, art, and culture.  They have been open for 40 years, and have provided guests of all ages with a fun and educational visit.  

Make sure to visit North Beach at Broadway and Columbus one day this summer.  You can visit the public art display for free.  This display was created with Brian Goggins' artwork and Dorkha Keehn.  On your next trip to the beach, make sure to visit this area to see the gorgeous art on display.  You can learn more about public art commissions here. 

Finally, on May 10th you can head to Noe Valley Town Square for Grove on the Road.  This pop up art festival is a production from the Stern Grove Festival. There will be performances and hands on art experiences for all ages.  This event is free from 11am-3pm.  You can find out more by clicking here.

Make sure to check out these great works of art and more throughout the month in San Francisco.  This is a great way to get out and enjoy something you cannot see everyday in the bay.   For more art exhibits through the Bay Area, please check out SfArts.

Music in San Francisco

Music can bring people together.  It is also something that people are very passionate about.  No matter what type of music you like, there are always concerts close to home at Berkeley Central. San Francisco has a great music community for all tastes. We are also lucky enough to have some of the best performance venues in the United States. Here are some shows you can check out over the next month in the bay area.

Tonight you can see Damien Rice at the Fox Theater in Oakland.   This acoustic guitar artist has had many hits over the years. This Irish singer/songwriter broke through in 2002 with his first album called ‘O’.  He has collaborated with many artists including Tori Amos and David Gray since 2002.  You can buy tickets for tonight’s show here!

Next month, head back to the Fox Theater to hear Spoon play.  This band has been playing for over 18 years across the world. Their music has been featured on popular television shows including The Simpsons and The O.C.  This Austin, Texas group is touring to promote their new album ‘They Want My Soul’. You can get tickets for the May 29th show here. 

Finally, on June 5th at the Fox Theater you can see Sufjan Stevens live.  This folk artist has experimented with many types of music over the years. This artist has been out of the spotlight for over five years, but he is returning with this tour and his two night show in San Francisco. You can get your tickets here. 

These are just three of the many great concerts coming to the San Francisco area.  You can find more shows at the San Francisco Theater website. 

Prix Fixe Menu and A New Restaurant

During restaurant weeks, we get the opportunity to sample plenty of food for a fixed menu price.  The fixed menu price is a great feature because you can plan your spending and where you go.  However, this option only comes around once or twice a year in a few locations.  We would love if their were restaurants that had a fixed menu price all year around. Lucky for us, this could be happening in the San Francisco area according to Hoodline. 

Trestle will be opening soon in the bay area. This restaurant is the home of the $35.00 Prix Fixe Menu.  The creators behind this restaurant have plenty of experience behind them.  Opening restaurants like Michael Mina, A16, and SPQR.  

Trestle will be opening in the 531 Jackson St. on the corner of Columbus Avenue. This area is not known as a bargain district, but Trestle will help add a good price and value option to the area. Trestle will be the perfect weekend getaway in the city.  It is a short 20 minute commute from Berkeley Central Apartments. 

This may be a Prix Fixe dinner, but there are still plenty of options to choose from. There are many ways to substitute items for allergies or other reasons you may have.  There may be a small charge, but it will be worth it after you taste your three delicious courses.  Trestle’s motto is “Return to the Proper Meal”.  This includes hearty portions, a good price, and a great value.  You should not be expecting discounted or low cost ingredients at this restaurant.

The creators of this restaurant want to make sure that their dinner is available to everyone.  They do not want to lose the customers that enjoy eating out and the fun that comes with that experience.  This menu price gives people the option of making a dinner the centerpiece of a night out.  We do not get this option very often, and we are super excited about trying Trestle. 

Winter is Coming Back to San Fran?

San Francisco didn’t get the worst of the weather this past winter, but we could soon be experiencing some sub-zero temperatures. According to Hoodline, a Craigslist ad was posted seeking out a manager and a general manager for the newest Minus 5 ice bar soon to be located in the Hilton San Francisco Union Square Hotel. The lease hasn’t officially been signed yet for Minus 5, but they already have a solid relationship with Hilton since their New York location is housed in a Hilton hotel. This is only Minus 5’s 6th location of one of their unique ice bars. Currently, there are 2 in Las Vegas and 1 each in New York, Orlando, FL and the Cayman Islands.

With tickets ranging in price from $20 to $75, all of which include the use of borrowed parkas and gloves, this can be a pricey excursion. Once you are outfitted in your gloves and military grade parkas, it’s time to delve into the icy world of Minus 5. Everything inside of the bar is crafted from ice. Everything. The walls, the bar, the glasses you drink your chilled cocktails from and even the seats. Minus 5 employs an ice carver to constantly update and change the feel of the bar with new sculptures throughout the year.

Dance to music while enjoying your cocktails and take in an LED light show all while the in house professional photographers capture freeze frames of your experiences in the ice bar.

However, with nearly 98% of California now under restrictions due to the drought, the ice bar could possibly feel the crack downs. California Governor Jerry Brown, stated, "We're trying to use the water in the wisest way possible." 2 San Franciscan bars even offered one dollar off drinks if you ordered them sans ice.

Is a bar crafted entirely out of ice the ‘wisest’ use of the state’s water supply? What do you think?

Sources consulted:

http://www.minus5experience.com/

http://sf.eater.com/2015/4/6/8355849/san-francisco-ice-bar-minus5-hilton-union-square

http://www.usatoday.com/story/news/2015/04/09/drought-california-brown/25544867/

Berkeley Easter Weekend Happenings

Hippity, hoppity, Easter weekend is here! Maybe you were even lucky enough to have a day off work today! Berkeley is home to a couple of huge area Easter events - the Egg Hunt Extravaganza and The Eggster Egghunt and and Learning Festival. Whether you have children yourself or are hosting some younger family members for the weekend, these events are the perfect way to have a fun, family-friendly experience!

Egg Hunt Extravaganza
On Saturday beginning at 9:30 AM, Willard Park on Derby Street in Southeast Berkeley will be home to an Easter wonderland! A petting zoo, carnival and crafts are some of the activities that await you. Children up to age 11 may participate in the egg hunt, while children 11 and older may participate in an organized scavenger hunt. Participation in the egg hunt costs $6. After the hunt is over, you can join in on Bunny Hop dance lessons!


The Eggster Egghunt and Learning Festival
The University of California, Berkeley is home to the largest free egg hunt in our part of the state. The hunt takes place on Saturday at the Sather Tower on the UC Berkeley campus. In addition to the egg hunt, there is a silent auction with gift cards and sports memorabilia, raffle and music. Egg hunt participants will need to bring their own baskets, as none will be provided at the event itself. Please be advised, parking in this area can be difficult! Luckily, a walk to Sather Tower at UC Berkeley from Berkeley Central apartment homes only takes about 10 minutes!

From Eggster:

This year's performances are*:

• 11:00 - Fei Tian Dancers
• 11:30 - California Golden Overtones
• 12:00 - Campanile's Carillon Bells
• 12:30 - Cal VSA Lion Dance
• 1:00 - Magical Nathaniel
• 1:30 - EGO (traditional Korean percussion)

Sources consulted:
Berkeleyside
YourBerkeley
Eggster

SF Weekend Events

TGIF! Another week has come and is almost gone! If you're looking for some fun and different events to check out this weekend, 7x7 has some suggestions! Probably the biggest event of this weekend is the Rock N Roll Half Marathon! Even if you don't know someone participating in the run, you can still stand along the route and cheer! Here are more weekend details from 7x7:

Rock 'n Roll Half Marathon
Don your Bay to Breakers gear and rock out at this lighthearted half marathon, which runs from Ocean Beach across the Golden Gate Bridge and ending at the Civic Center, where you can party like a rock star at the post-run festival. If you haven't registered yet, make sure to do so at the health & fitness expo, since you're out of luck if you try to register on race day. Not much of a runner? Come support those more athletic than you, and take in costume that rival those seen at Bay to Breakers. Sunday, March 29: 6:30am. Race begins at Great Highway & Fulton (subject to change)

Go Dark for Earth Hour at Ghirardelli Square
Every year on the last Saturday of March, people across the globe turn acknowledge Earth Hour by turning off lights in their homes and businesses. This year, Ghirardelli will be hosting a dark chocolate party in the dark, complete with candlelit yoga, activities, and dark chocolate tastings (naturally).  Saturday, March 28: 6pm - 9:30pm. Ghirardelli Square, 900 North Point (Fisherman's Wharf)

Tiny House Movement BBQ in the Mission
One things SF residents can all appreciate is getting a lot out of a little space. The team behind Tiny House, Giant Journey and Yerdle joined forces to host a Q&A, complete with tasty BBQ, in an al fresco event in the Mission. Come by to learn about how to make a 125 square foot house work for you (seriously). Suddenly, those micro units aren't quite as terrifying. Sunday, March 29: 12pm - 3pm. In front of 501 York (Mission).

Weekend Arts Events

Happy first day of spring and happy Friday! If you're looking to get out of the apartment and escape the March Madness for the weekend, you're in luck! While it's normal to have weekend events going on in Berkeley, there are quite a few arts events in particular this weekend. See below for some artsy activities, courtesy of Your Berkeley:

Beth Custer Ensemble
Presented by Jazz in the Neighborhood, The Beth Custer Ensemble will be performing this Friday, March 20, at the Berkeley Fellowship of Unitarian Universalists (1924 Cedar Street, Berkeley). Comprised of “the crème de la crème of Bay Area musicians” the Beth Custer Ensemble has been delighting audiences for years with their repertoire ranging from silent film scores to country waltzes, funky political songs to Afro-fusion instrumentals.

The band features Jan Jackson on drums, (Will Bernard, Curtis Bumpy), guitarist/vocalist David James (Afro Funk Experience, The Coup, Spearhead), Chris Grady on trumpet (Tom Waits, Grassy Knoll, Jewel), Vicky Grossi on bass (Mitch Marcus, Bitches Brew), vocalist Diana Mangano (Jefferson Airplane) and Beth Custer, clarinets/vocal (Club Foot Orchestra, Trance Mission, Eighty Mile Beach, Clarinet Thing).

Tickets can be purchased online: $20 for general admission, $5 for students.

The Great War: Mario Monicelli: Satires, Capers, and Sendups
From event website: There’s nothing funny about war. But leave it to Italian genius Mario Monicelli to create a film a genuinely funny satire that accurately illustrates human behavior in the ravages of war. Written with Age and Scarpelli, and Luciano Vincenzoni, this Italian comedy follows 2 reluctant soldiers surviving the horror and madness of World War I through wit and sheer luck. Funny, dark, biting, and brave, The Great War looks at the anti-heroes, cowards, and con-men finding humor in tragedy.

Screening will be at the PFA Theater on March 20 at 7:30 pm. General admission is $9.50 with special rates for students, seniors, and persons with disability. Tickets can be purchased by calling the Berkeley Art Museum and Pacific Film Archive at 510-642-5249.

Antigonick
Shotgun Players (1901 Ashby, Berkeley) presents Antigonick, a new adaptation of Antigone written by renowned author and recipient of the Guggenheim and MacArthur “Genius” Fellowship Anne Carson. Antigonick is an exploration into the “epic struggle between the forces of law and the ties that bind”, expressed through movement with choreography by Hope Mohr and directed by long time long time Shotgun Players artist Mark Jackson.

Pay-what-you-can previews (ranging from $5-$20 for tickets) are available from March 19th to March 25th at 8pm with opening night on March 26th. The show runs through April 19th. Tickets can be purchased online.

Junior Bach Festival
The Junior Bach Festival is a concert series that celebrates the music of Johann Sebastian Bach and the young prodigies studying and performing the works of this great man. Founded in Berkeley in 1953, the Junior Bach Festival has produced features some of the best young musicians in the Bay Area, with most of the becoming professional musicians and musical directors in a wide variety of genres.

This year, the Berkeley leg of this concert tour will be held at the Freight & Salvage (2020 Addison Street, Berkeley) on March 21st at 2pm. Purchase tickets for $17 online in advance or at the door for $19.

Additional Junior Bach Festival concerts will be held through the weekend at various Berkeley and East Bay locations including: Sunday, March 22, 2:00 pm at Berkeley Piano Club (2724 Haste Street, Berkeley)

Jewish Musical Festival Finale
Celebrate life and be inspired through music at the Jewish Musical Festival Finale this Sunday, March 22nd at Jewish Community Center of the East Bay (1414 Walnut Street, Berkeley).

From event website: The final day of the festival is all about being part of the music. Watch performances from internationally renewed Jewish artists Instant Klezmer Mandolin Orchestra and Nigunim Community Chorus. Sing along with a pop-up community chorus of Leonard Cohen’s Hallelujah led by Conspiracy of Beards artistic director Daryl Henline. And experience the joy of Yiddish dancing at a dance party with Steve Weintraub and Veretski Pass.

Tickets are available for purchase online. General admission is $15 with discounted rates for students, seniors and JCCED members.