Happy 510 Day! Wait, what is 510 Day?
Some of you might be wondering what the heck we’re talking about. We’ll fill you in: Today in the Bay we celebrate the history and culture of all things Area Code 510. This includes Oakland and its oft-forgotten neighbor, Alameda, where you can find our little slice of Embarc Heaven on the 1600 block of Webster Street.
Stay tuned and listen up because today we’ve got weed deals (from 510 brands, ofc), a list of our favorite Webster Street eats, and most importantly, a little history lesson about 510 Day.
History
This holiday’s origin story perfectly captures the 510 spirit of resistance to injustice and building community. In 2018, a white woman (who became known in the media as “Barbecue Becky”) called the police on a Black family for legally barbecuing at Lake Merritt. In response, the Urban Peace Movement led a march with over 100 young people around Lake Merritt, which ended in a large block party they dubbed “510 Day” to celebrate Oakland’s culture, history, and legacy in the face of gentrification. Videos of the block party went viral and the organization received national and international news coverage, as well as the co-adoption of the holiday by organizations like the Oakland A’s. (https://localwiki.org/oakland/510_Day)
You want to go to that block party too, now, don’t you? Word on the street is it’s EPIC. Unfortunately due to Covid, this year’s festivities look a little different: instead of a march, there’s a car parade; instead of a block party, there’s a Zoom afterparty. Below find everything you need to know about the 510 Day celebration hosted by UPM, or visit their Instagram.
Where to Eat
So it’s 510 Day, and we know between celebrating your beloved town and reflecting on its rich history you’re going to be *WHEW* busy. But, you still have to eat so we did you a solid. Here’s a little list of our Alameda staff’s favorite places for good eats on Webster Street.
Calafia
This family-owned Mexican restaurant has a cozy outdoor patio and the best fish tacos in town. Don’t miss the fresh horchata, either.
Neptune’s
Looking for your next favorite brunch? Look no further than Neptune’s. This all-American spot also hosts fun food pop-ups in the evenings, like this seasonal pop-up from Smish Smash.
Donut Petit
Raised, cake, gluten-free, vegan, Petit Donuts has ‘em all. And with funky flavors like pistachio, lavender, Oreo and Boston Creme Pie, they’ll quickly become your go-to for your delicious morning dough ring.
Fireside Lounge
Small batch spirits, close-to-home breweries, and house-made mixers are what make this bar so unique. Come for the craft cocktails, stay for the live music.
Otaez
We love our across-the-street neighbors! Summer’s coming and there isn’t a better place on Webster Street to enjoy a cold margarita, people-watch, and take in the sunset.
What to Smoke
Yeah, we got deals. Duh. Order online here. Or come visit us at 1616 Webster Street.
- 20% off these 510-based cartridges: Himalaya, Brite Labs, and Friendly Farms
- 25% off these edibles: Wyld, Heavy Hitters, Emerald Sky, Smokiez
- Buy 2, Get 1 for $1: FLAV, Kanha
Still itching for more 510 Day content? Wondering when they legalized pinball machines in Oakland? Head to our Instagram stories for some trivia that only the true 510 locs will know. And don’t forget to have fun today!
Want exclusive members-only discounts, offers, and early access to new releases?
Join the Embarc Passport Club!
