Folsom fashion, Litquake’s literary energy, flavors of Michoacán in Redwood City, a Black woman-owned café in Mission Bay, open trails at Lassen, Betty Reid Soskin at 104, SF’s delicious spots, AI art in San Jose, a love quest on a billboard, and Oakland’s Tiny Plot podcast.
Folsom Fashion
The Folsom Street Fair is back this Sunday. Vendors will showcase unique styles, from sequined outfits to reimagined leather pieces. Local brands like Five and Diamond and Bearly Covered highlight creativity born from the pandemic. Their fashion pieces tell stories of joy and resilience through every stitch. Learn more here.
Litquake Season
Litquake is here! It kicks off this Sunday at the Small Press Book Fair in Yerba Buena Gardens. Independent publishers will share their stories. Throughout October, events will include panels on writing about wildfire and talks with poet Ada Limón. This festival captures the Bay Area’s vibrant literary scene. Read more.
A Community’s Experiment
In Oakland’s Union Point Park, unhoused residents are taking charge. They are building their own community, as heard in the podcast A Tiny Plot. This show captures their experiences—struggles, hopes, and the quest for stability. Shaina Shealy’s year-long reporting reminds us that self-determination is key to their journey. More about it here.
Connecting Through Art
At the San Jose Institute of Contemporary Art, Stephanie Dinkins has created a stunning installation called Data Trust. It collects oral histories from Black communities. These stories turn into engaging projections, inviting visitors to share their memories. This project, supported by the Hewlett 50 Arts Commissions, blurs the lines between storytelling and technology. It runs until March 2026. Learn more.
Celebrating Betty Reid Soskin
Betty Reid Soskin, the nation’s oldest park ranger, recently turned 104. She celebrated with middle school students at her namesake school. Soskin’s story is inspiring; she reinvented herself at 50, transitioning from a record shop owner to a ranger at 84. Her focus on personal growth shows that age is just a number. Read more here.
Fall Adventures at Lassen Peak
Lassen Peak offers breathtaking views and quieter trails this fall. The 10,457-foot hike showcases stunning landscapes without the crowds found in places like Yosemite. This park is often called “Little Yellowstone,” thanks to its geothermal wonders. It’s a perfect fall getaway for nature lovers. Find more here.
Michoacán Flavors in Redwood City
Redwood City is known for its authentic Mexican cuisine, a result of strong ties to Aguililla, Michoacán. Local restaurants like Carnitas El Rincón and Panaderia Michoacán keep traditions alive. Even with rising housing costs, the food remains a cherished link to heritage. Read more.
Flavorful San Francisco
San Francisco’s culinary scene is diverse and exciting. Restaurants like Piglet & Co and Prubechu offer delicious dishes that reflect the city’s spirit. Whether it’s pancakes at Hilda and Jesse’s or spicy deviled eggs at Gola, there’s something for everyone. These favorites are often featured on the Top 100 lists that showcase the city’s evolving menu. Explore more here.
Finding Love on Highway 101
Meet Lisa Catalano, who’s taking a creative approach to finding love. She’s advertising her search on digital billboards along Highway 101. With a website where interested people can learn more about her, she’s sparking conversations online. This isn’t just for fun; it’s a genuine pursuit for companionship after losing her fiancé. Learn more about her journey here.
