Friday Nights at OMCA

This Friday Night at OMCA, Oakland-born vocalist and songwriter PHER brings his soulful sound to the Garden Stage with a powerful live performance. Blending contemporary R&B, jazz, and soul with heartfelt storytelling, the three-time Grammy-winning collaborator delivers an uplifting set of original music, reimagined classics, and joyful grooves that invite audiences to sing, reflect, and celebrate together.

Keeping the music going throughout the evening, Bay Area JAZZ.FM takes over the Amphitheater with an energetic DJ set that moves effortlessly across genres. Rooted in Hip-Hop and R&B while inspired by the energy of the crowd, her vibrant DJ set creates the perfect soundtrack for dancing, relaxing, and enjoying a summer night at the Museum.

Families can also gather in the Garden for Drag Storytime with Per Sia, San Francisco’s Drag Laureate, featuring a reading of I Am Me: A Book of Authenticity. Guests of all ages are also invited to create their own colorful suncatcher inspired by the beauty of the sky, making a keepsake to take home after an evening of creativity and self-expression.

Alongside an exceptional event experience, Friday Nights at OMCA also features Gallery Chats from 5:30–7:30 pm. Putting a twist on the traditional museum tour, Gallery Chats invite visitors to engage in meaningful conversations, share personal reflections, and explore new perspectives on the artwork, artifacts, and stories throughout OMCA’s galleries. Enthusiastic volunteer facilitators can be found floating between all of OMCA’s galleries, including its Great Hall Special Exhibitions, throughout the evening. Look for the blue “Let’s Chat” shirts to join the conversation. Gallery Chats are included with Museum admission.

Program Schedule: 

5:15 pm Drag Storytime with Per Sia | Garden

5:30–7:30 pm Make a Suncatcher | Garden

5:30–7:30 pm Gallery Chats | All Galleries

6:30–7:30 pm Live Music by PHER | Garden Stage

6:45–8:45 pm DJ Set by JAZZ.FM  | Amphitheater