Events In KONO
KONO is home to two vibrant cultural events that bring our district to life. Each month, Oakland First Fridays transforms Telegraph Avenue into a lively street festival celebrating local art, food, music, and community. Every fall, the annual Korean Culture Fest highlights the rich heritage of Korean traditions through performances, cuisine, and family-friendly activities. Together, these events showcase the diverse spirit and creativity that define the heart of KONO.
Oakland First Fridays
Oakland First Fridays is a monthly celebration of Oakland’s arts, culture, food and community. The festival evolved from a gallery crawl that began in 2005. In 2013, KONO was asked to assume management of it, and it’s continued to grow in scope and popularity.
Every first Friday we close Telegraph Avenue from W. Grand to 27th, and tens of thousands of people come down to enjoy galleries, artist collectives, street artists, local culinary artisans, performers, musicians, dancers, DJ’s, poets and more. It has featured pop-up attractions including classic cars, runway fashion shows, interactive art projects and a Kid Zone every month.
Oakland First Fridays is a major driver of business for dozens of small entrepreneurs, and its major and positive impact on Oakland’s economy is well documented.
Vendor & Attendee Survey 2017 Report
Non-Profit Partners
Visit the Oakland First Fridays website
Coming Up: Oakland Made
We’re back Friday, August 1st with Oakland Made, a special edition of Oakland First Fridays dedicated to the makers, movers, and creatives that keep The Town thriving. This month, we’re spotlighting the entrepreneurial spirit that defines Oakland. Come experience a lively marketplace filled with local artisans, innovative small businesses, incredible food vendors, and one-of-a-kind creations. Catch live performances from local musicians, connect with visionary Oakland-based entrepreneurs, and celebrate the creativity that makes our city unlike any other. Whether you’re discovering a new favorite vendor or reconnecting with community, this event is all about honoring the people and talent that make Oakland shine.
⬇️Interested in being part of the First Fridays community? Click the link below to learn more ⬇️
2025 marks 12 years of KONO hosting Oakland First Fridays!
For 12 years, the Koreatown Northgate district has proudly hosted Oakland First Fridays, a vibrant festival rooted in community, creativity, and culture. What began in 2005 with local vendors, Art Murmur gallery owners, and the Rock Paper Scissors collective’s "The 23rd Street Fair" has grown into a vital space for artists, musicians, and small businesses to shine. However, financial challenges now threaten its future. To keep this beloved event alive, we need your support. Every donation helps cover essential costs and ensures Oakland First Fridays continues to uplift our community. No amount is too small—every bit makes a difference!
The Korean Culture Fest
Immerse yourself in a vibrant explosion of Korean art, culture, and achievement at the highly anticipated annual Korean Culture Fest, brought to you by the dynamic collaboration between KONO, the Oakland & East Bay Korean American Association, and the City of Oakland Culture Fair Division. Brace yourself for an unforgettable experience as we transform Oakland First Fridays into a captivating celebration like no other.
You will be stepping into a world where local dignitaries ignite inspiration, Tae Kwon Do demonstrations display awe-inspiring skill, and a mesmerizing vendor area offers a trove of unique treasures. Get ready to be swept off your feet as the First Friday stage comes alive with an exhilarating lineup of performances that span from enchanting traditional music and dance to the electrifying beats of K-pop.
Korean Culture Fest: September 5, 2025
