Independence Day Potluck/BBQ Picnic
Where: Lake Temescal Streamside Picnic Area, 6502 Broadway Terrace, Oakland
Leader: Stephen Mahabir 510.329.2124
This year we will once again celebrate Independence Day with a barbecue and picnic at one of Oakland’s often overlooked gems, Lake Temescal, in the hills near the Berkeley-Oakland border. This is one of the East Bay’s oldest parks, originally opened in 1936. Today, it is a favorite site for swimming, sunbathing, fishing, picnicking, hiking and jogging. The 48-acre park boasts a 13-acre lake, 10 acres of turf, a beautiful rose garden and demonstration fire-resistant garden, and lush growths of native and ornamental plants.
We will meet at the Streamside picnic site, which is at the South end of the park, at 11:00 AM. The usual potluck formula will apply, with guests being asked to bring a dish to share and any food items for grilling. Couples are reminded to bring a dish of double proportion. Please use the first letter of your last name as the guide for your assigned dish.
Last Name starts with A-K: Main Dishes
Last Name starts with L-O: Desserts
Last Name starts with P-Z: Salads, Sides, Vegetables
Plates & cups, flatware, charcoal, ice and non-alcoholic beverages will be provided. Beer & wine is permitted at the picnic area so feel free to bring your favorite alcoholic beverage for yourself or to share.
Our picnic site is on the shady creek site and there is a large grassy field nearby. Please bring sunscreen or a hat if you plan to be in the sun. Also, bring along any outdoor games you may have so those attending can participate.
A lifeguard staffs the sandy swimming beach at the Northwest end of the lake, and the swimming fee is $3.50 for adults. Be sure to bring your swimsuits and beach towels. A bathhouse adjacent to the swim area offers changing rooms and showers and is accessible to people with disabilities. There is a $5.00 parking fee in both the South and the North parking lots.