Entertainment Aplenty at Paramount Theatre 

During the month of October, SF Jazz will represent a plethora of top entertainers at the Paramount Theatre. "Best New Artist" Grammy Award Winner Esperanza Spalding will bring her improvisational jazz sounds to the stage, as well as Brazilian artist Daniela Mercury, who has more #1 hits than any other woman in Brazilian history. Later in the month, catch India.Aire & Idan Raichel for a dose of global soul, or get a taste of the trans-Balkan music of Goran Bregovic. Chef and television personality Anthony Bourdain will also stop by the Paramount to discuss both his popular book series and television show, "No Reservations." For more entertainment at the Paramount, visit www.visitoakland.org/calendar.

Celebrate Dia de los Muertos

October is not just a time for trick-or-treating and costumes. For many, it's an important time to honor loved ones who have passed. Each year, the Oakland Museum of California celebrates with "Love and Loss: Dias de los Muertos." The Mesoamerican tradition will be highlighted with a special focus on the ofrendas and their importance. Fourteen featured artists and other community groups will share their stories and memories as a part of the exhibit. A special community celebration will be held on October 23, with music, dance, arts, crafts and other events to honor the traditions of Dia de los Muertos. On October 30, the Fruitvale District will also host an event honoring the holiday, including 30 community altars, 100 arts and crafts vendors, music, food and more. For more information, visit our calendar at www.visitoakland.org/calendar.

Get Your Creative Juices Flowing

Take up a new hobby this fall with some inspirational events and classes happening in Oakland. The East Bay Mini Maker Faire, held October 16 in Temescal, will bring together science, art, homesteading, crafts and workshops. Peruse the works of local DIY experts and get some insight on their crafts. If you're ready to delve into some classes on your own, try a cheesemaking class at the Institute of Urban Homesteading, or learn how to screenprint your own zine at Rock Paper Scissors Collective. Roll up your sleeves and grab a torch for some industrial arts work at The Crucible, or take up crochet at Article Pract. For more classes and events, go to www.visitoakland.org.

Bring Your Kids for Fall Activities

Book your stay at one of Oakland's hotels in October and enjoy the family fun around town. Head to Chabot Space & Science Center to learn what it would be like to be an astronaut with Beyond Blastoff, where you can see a real spacesuit and spacecraft. For the younger kids, head over to Children's Fairyland on Lake Merritt, where the entire family can participate in a puppet show, get creative with arts and crafts and more. The ORACLE Arena will bring Disney's favorite characters to town for Disney on Ice October 12-16. Don't miss Boo at the Zoo, the annual Oakland Zoo Halloween event October 29-30. For a list of hotel specials and accommodations for the entire family, visit www.visitoakland.org/specials.