Oakland Roots play at CSU East Bay until next season when they move to the Oakland Coliseum.
Have you been to a pro soccer game with your kids? The Oakland Roots Soccer Club is a prominent, young professional soccer team based right here in the {510}. From March through October, the Cal State East Bay Stadium becomes home to the Roots.
We went to our first Oakland Roots game this season and hesitantly took our six- and three-year-olds. To our surprise, they actually had a blast trying to match the energy in the stadium – clapping, chanting, and banging their bam bams (a free giveaway). Children of all ages were in attendance, from babies watching through their slings, toddlers running up and down the bleachers, and tweens decked out in soccer gear.
What to Expect at an Oakland Roots Game
If sitting through a game proves to be a challenge, there is plenty of space to walk around the stadium, along with food trucks and tents set up with special giveaways. This area is blocked off from traffic so it’s safe for kids to roam freely.
We love the Roots! Now a part of the second division USL Championship, the soccer club not only embodies ambitious players but also partners with several organizations dedicated to uplifting Oakland. NFL superstar and Oakland native, Marshawn Lynch, is also part owner and partner with Oakland Roots, expanding their initiatives to help Oakland children and their families.
Plan your Oakland Roots Game Day
Tickets: Prices generally start at $25 per person, but vary. Kids under 5 are FREE. Find ticket info here.
Food: Food trucks feature a variety of options from soul food to Mexican fare. You can also bring your own food, but drinks must be sealed.
Restrooms: There are portable toilets set up near the food trucks.
Parking: FREE parking in the stadium lot.
What to Bring: Only clear bags/purses are allowed. Wear layers. It can be hot as the sun is directly on the bleachers before it goes down. Also bring blankets, jackets, and hats as evenings get breezy. All purchases are cashless.
Pro tip: If you come with a group and want to make this extra memorable, you can tailgate in the parking lot (we also saw a child celebrate their birthday with friends in the parking lot).
Oakland Roots games are definitely a great option for a night of family fun, and the overall vibe felt very communal. It was fun to see the rituals of the hardcore fans, known in the soccer world as “supporters”. The drums, the signs, the “Let’s Go Oakland” chants, and a diverse crowd made us feel like we were at an A’s game (RIP). We plan to go back and become regulars to root root root for the Roots.
Can’t get enough East Bay sports? Check out the Oakland Spiders games, Oakland Soul Women’s Soccer, and the Oakland A’s.
If your child is inspired, take a look at our guide to youth soccer in the East Bay.
Upcoming Oakland Roots Home Games
Oakland Roots play in Hayward this year from March 9 through October 26 with cool theme nights throughout the season including “Super Hyphy” Night, “Marvel Superhero” Night, “Town Biz” Night, and even “Time of your Life” Night in honor of Green Day.
Location: CSU East Bay, 25800 Carlos Bee Blvd, Hayward
Website for updated schedule and ticket purchase >
Gates open about an hour before game time for regular ticket holders.
