First Fridays: A Toast to Community, Flavor, and Natural Wines

In the heart of the Gilman District, the First Friday Block Party has become a monthly ritual for locals and visitors. Held on the first Friday of each month from 3:00 PM to 8:00 PM, this event combines natural wines, inventive food, live music, and a joyous neighborhood scene

welcoming the warmth of the summer.

The Gilman Wine Block is home to a quartet of natural wineries: Hammerling Wines, Donkey & Goat, Broc Cellars, and Tessier Winery. Each brings its unique flair and personality, offering attendees a diverse tasting experience. Whether you're a seasoned wine enthusiast or a curious newcomer, the array of bottles and glasses available for purchase promises something to delight every palate.

Beyond the wine, First Fridays features a rotating lineup of local pop-up food vendors offering everything from savory snacks to indulgent desserts. During my last visit, I started with one of the elaborate pretzels from Squabisch, a Kensington Farmers Market regular. After some exploring, I followed up with a baja-style fish taco from Dos Raicez, then took a bite out of my daughter’s slice of Oakland’s Citizen Pizza, and finished with a sweet treat from Edith’s Pies.

I know I only scratched the surface, having passed up Indonesian Food Truck D’Groback, Tutuli Coyatas, which featured an array of Handcrafted Mexican pastries, and Tita Ammy’s Lumpia, which offered a taste of the Philippines.

Live music is also a staple of the evening, creating a laid-back, celebratory experience. While I was there, DJ Yerstrooly set an upbeat and funky mood as I wandered between wineries and soaked up the scene. Families, couples, and dogs (yay, dogs!) are all welcome, making this soiree feel more like an open house for the whole community than your typical wine tasting.

Outside of the event itself, the Gilman District is brimming with neighborhood gems worth exploring. Just a short stroll away, you’ll find the Trumer Taproom, where you can sip crisp, locally brewed pilsner in a sleek, modern setting. Picante serves up vibrant Mexican dishes with house-made salsas and warm tortillas that draw a loyal crowd. For something cozy and eclectic, Lama Beans offers a global-inspired menu in a relaxed cafe atmosphere.. With colorful murals, artisan storefronts, and spontaneous pop-up markets dotting the streets, the area invites wandering and discovery before the music starts.

First Fridays offers a rare blend of intimacy and energy. You’ll meet the winemakers, chat with chefs, and maybe even dance a little. It’s the kind of place where community comes first, and everyone is invited. So grab a friend, bring your pup, and don’t miss out on one of the East Bay’s most delicious and down-to-earth monthly traditions. The next Block Party is happening on May 2, 2025. Admission is free, and with so much to explore—flavors to sample, bottles to take home, and people to meet—it’s an unbeatable way to kick off the month.