If it feels like it’s been a while since you’ve heard from Wine & Bowties, you’re not wrong. While the East Bay event organizers’ legendary Feels parties of the mid-2010s remain firmly imprinted on every attendee’s memory, the group’s been quiet since the pandemic.
Until now, that is. On Saturday, the Wine & Bowties Bazaar showcases all the artistic soul of a classic warehouse party, and with slightly more sensible hours for those of us who, let’s face it, are 10 years older now. That’s not the only concession to grown-up self-care: Saturday’s stage headliner, tai chi practicioner Seiji Oda, all but invented the genre of “hyphy meditation.”
The day’s main attraction is more than 40 multicultural, multidisciplinary exhibitors — think art, clothing, zines, ceramics, handbags, records, herbs, stationery, houseplants and jewelry. Along with Seiji Oda of “a gentle gigg” fame, the stage hosts Oakland School for the Arts’ Prospect Band, lo-fi producer Chef Lee, and DJ sets from Soul Light Collective and 7000coils.
And while that’s probably enough enticement — plus food courtesy of Vegan Chula Eats, Tacos El Ultimo Baile and Porchetta — it’s really the attendees that make Wine & Bowties events truly special. As a wise man once said: the people are the artwork.
The Wine & Bowties Bazaar takes place on Saturday, Aug. 31, from 2 p.m. to 8 p.m., at 2150 Livingston St. in Oakland. Tickets and details here.
