MO’WHAT? Mo’Fone‘s funky brand of jazz might sound like it comes from New Orleans, but don’t be deceived. The trio’s roots are right here in the Bay Area, and the group is playing at Berkeley’s own Jupiter on Saturday Aug. 18 from 8 pm to 11 pm. A unique combination of two saxophone players and one drummer, the Mo’Fone men play energetic, danceable jazz that Consequence of Sound described as “downright mesmerizing.” Best of all, the show’s free!
NOT JUST FOR STUDENTS UC Berkeley’s annual welcome extravaganza is back for its 10th anniversary this Sunday Aug. 19 and Monday Aug. 20. Caltopia—the self-proclaimed “two greatest days on planet Earth”—boasts dozens of booths set up by local businesses and community organizations, live music, and boatloads of free goodies. And we’re not just talking keychains and water bottles—there’s a Droid up for grabs. Originally created as a showcase for Cal’s Recreational Sports department, Caltopia has morphed into an anticipated event for students and community members alike.
A BALANCING ACT Berkeley High’s Jacket Gym is often a bit of a circus, but this weekend’s Juggling and Unicycling Festival brings the fun to a new level. Innovative acrobats and competitive unicyclists will show off their skills and even teach tricks of the trade in a series of free workshops. The Associated Press described emcee-juggler-comedian Dan Holzman as “wild and uninhibited.” A full list of family-friendly events—including Saturday’s $5-$15 variety show—can be found on the website.
SONGWRITERS ON SUNDAY Musicians from 10 different cities will perform original compositions at the West Coast Songwriters Competition Finals on Sunday Aug. 19 at 8 pm. Those involved in the WCS have gone on to be nominated for Grammys and to tour nationally—you’ll be able to brag that you heard the tune when it was just a contest entry at Freight & Salvage. The show starts at 7:30 p.m and tickets are $6.50 in advance or $8.50 at the tour.
FINGER LICKING GOOD – It’s the season of abundance in the garden and Rachel Saunders, whose Blue Chair Fruit Company is considered one of the premier artisanal jam manufacturers in the country, will lead a workshop on how to make jam. Students in this two-hour, demo-style class will learn how to cook a single fruit and a mixed fruit jam. Participants will bring home two jars to enjoy. The class is from 10 am to 12 pm Sunday at the UC Botanical Garden. $80-$85.
Don’t forget these other weekend events, previously on Berkeleyside:
The Berkeley Coffee and Tea Festival is Saturday, from 9 am to 1 pm.
Golf tournament at Tiden to benefit BOSS, Saturday, from 11am.
Summer Cinema on Center Street will screen “The Brain that Would Not Die” at 7:30 pm.
Also, check out the newly launched Berkeleyside Radio, which presents music from many bands that will be playing around town in the next two weeks. You can stream it, too. Produced by Deli Radio.
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To find out about more events in Berkeley and nearby, visit Berkeleyside’s Events Calendar. We also encourage you to submit your own events.
