About The Loom Oakland
The Loom Oakland is an industrial-chic music and event venue formed from a historic brick-and-timber warehouse on 2150 Livingston Street in East Oakland. It occupies the landmarked California Cotton Mills building, blending late-19th-century mill architecture with modern renovation. With roughly 3,500 square feet of open floor, The Loom can fit around 500–600 guests (mostly standing general admission). Its exposed brick walls and heavy wooden beams create a warm, authentic backdrop for performances. Inside you’ll find a full concert-grade lighting and sound rig, a raised stage area, and an on-site bar, all added during a recent top-to-bottom renovation. The venue is part of a larger creative campus – a community-driven arts district – that values sustainability (solar power plans, permaculture gardens) and inclusivity. The Loom is notable not just for its unique adaptive reuse and industrial vibe, but also for its mission of supporting Oakland’s cultural scene and artists.
Events and Programming
The Loom hosts a broad range of events year-round. You’ll see everything from live concerts (rock, indie, hip-hop, reggae, world and electronic music) to dance parties, cultural and community festivals, performance art shows, and private events. Local promoters and organizations regularly book first-rate acts here. For example, Oakland rapper G-Eazy held a sold-out album-release concert at The Loom, and Brazilian DJ Vintage Culture and Bay Area jazz-fusion band Kush Jones have also played widely noticed shows. The space is flexible, so you might also find themed community markets, DJ nights, festival-style events (like Afro-Latin music celebrations or global folk-jam parties), and pop-ups by local artists. Many events benefit from The Loom’s top-tier sound and lighting gear, so production values get rave reviews. Ticket prices vary by event, but most local concerts range from roughly $20 up to $60 in advance; some big-name or festival events may run higher. In general, smaller local gigs can be as low as $10–20, while inspired production concerts or multi-act bills might reach $80–100 (with VIP or early-access tiers costing more). Recurring events in the building have included international dance and healing circles, holiday art markets, and performances organized by Oakland cultural groups. In short, The Loom’s calendar is eclectic – check social media or newsletters for the latest lineup – but you can expect mostly music concerts, creative arts gatherings, and community-focused programming.
Tickets and Booking
Tickets for events at The Loom are sold through each event’s ticketing channel. The Loom itself does not have a public box office; instead, local promoters or national ticket outlets handle sales. In practice, most tickets are purchased online (often via licensed ticketing sites or directly from the artist/promoter). Some events may offer limited door sales, but popular shows typically sell out early, so it’s best to secure tickets in advance. Follow The Loom’s social media or specific event announcements for on-sale dates. Many shows have general admission and VIP tiers, with VIP often including perks like early entry or a reserved area near the stage. Tickets usually go on sale weeks before an event. If a show has a presale (for example, via mailing lists or fan clubs), that will be announced by the promoter. On the night of the event, plan to arrive well before showtime to pick up any will-call tickets and avoid long lines. Prices are typically tiered: general admission is cheapest, and reserved or VIP seating costs more. Because the venue is relatively new and intimate, very popular shows can sell out fast – advance planning is recommended.
Seating and Layout
The Loom’s main event space – often called the Seed Barn – is an open, flexible floorplan with no permanent seats. Most events use general admission standing-room (often with some folding chairs or high-top cocktail tables along the edges). The high ceiling and uncluttered interior mean sightlines are very good from most spots. The raised stage is at one end of the warehouse, and attendees typically gather in front of it. A professional sound booth is stationed toward the rear or side of the hall. Along the perimeter you’ll find the full-service bar and sometimes a small lounge area. There are no supportive pillars obstructing the view, so you can stand or sit anywhere along the open floor for a clear view. For a photo or sound perspective, center-front is loudest and gives a full view of the stage, but this area fills up quickly. Just behind the sound booth (usually near the back wall) you’ll get balanced audio and an elevated vantage. Some events carve out a small raised platform or VIP section near the stage or along the sides – check the event details. Acoustically, the exposed brick and high roof mean sound can be quite lively; the in-house sound team tunes the PA to handle the indoor echo. Overall, fans say almost any position in the room has good visibility, though standing right in front of large speakers (on stage sides) can be very loud. Wheelchair users have accessible spots along the sides near the entrance; just ask staff for the best viewing area. In short, The Loom feels much like a classic warehouse club: an industrial blank canvas where promoters can arrange rails, seats or tables to suit each show.
Getting There and Parking
The Loom is at 2150 Livingston Street (near the intersection with 22nd Avenue) in Oakland’s Jingletown/Brooklyn Basin area. It’s just off Interstate 880 (exit 23rd-22nd Street) and a few blocks east of Jack London Square. If you’re driving, limited street parking surrounds the building, but spaces can go quickly on event nights. Nearby residential streets may have metered spaces or permit restrictions, so arrive early to find a legal spot. There is no dedicated public parking lot for The Loom, but you’ll find paid lots a short walk away (for example at 260 Brooklyn Basin Way or other garages in the Brooklyn Basin development). We recommend using parking apps to reserve a spot if possible. For public transit, The Loom is about a mile from the 19th Street BART station. AC Transit buses serve nearby streets – routes along East 12th, 22nd/22nd, and 60th streets come close. For example, Line 22 runs east-west on nearby Alcatraz/Lakeshore and could be walked from 22nd Ave, and Line 62 runs on MacArthur Blvd. (from Lake Merritt BART). Check current AC Transit maps (e.g. Line 10 or 19) since routes change. Oakland’s new East Bay Oakland / Brooklyn Basin shuttles sometimes stop in Jingletown as well. A rideshare or taxi drop-off point is typically at the Livingston entrance; drive up to the loading zone on East Peralta/22nd Ave if possible. If taking BART from somewhere else, get off at Oakland’s 19th Street or MacArthur station and either grab a connecting bus/ride-share or walk out to The Loom (the 19th St station is about 1.5 miles). Plan for traffic in Oakland – Friday/Saturday nights are busy, so allow extra travel time.
Inside the Venue
On event nights, you’ll enter The Loom through a marked main door on Livingston Street. Staff will scan tickets and do a quick bag check for prohibited items. The space inside has an energized industrial vibe – exposed brick walls, high wood-beam ceilings, strings of stage lights and vintage-inspired décor. The air has a concert-hall feel but with an authentic warehouse edge (mild echo under the tall roof). A spacious lobby area often holds the coat check, merch tables, and sometimes food vendors. The full-service bar is prominent (with craft beer, wine and cocktails) and usually serves the crowd at the side of the main floor. Bathrooms are modern and ADA-accessible (one for men, one for women, plus larger family-accessible restrooms). Merch booths are typically set up in hallway channels near the entrance or along side walls. You’ll hear music pumping, and people often bring or buy festival-style glow items on busy nights. Expect a lively crowd and a friendly, artistic atmosphere. The venue is wheelchair-accessible: the entrance has no steps, and restrooms and main floor paths are wide. Phones work reasonably well upstairs – some guests stream the video screen or share live updates. Look for lounge seating only if it’s a seated event; otherwise wear comfortable shoes for standing/dancing on concrete floors. The Loom is fully indoors (weather won’t affect inside shows), but there is a large covered courtyard adjacent to the main hall which is sometimes used for open-air segments or a break area. Overall, inside The Loom you’ll find a casual, creative club-like vibe with modern amenities like top-notch lighting rigs and sound boards overhead, plus the convenience of a bar and snack stands.
Nearby Amenities
The Loom sits in a redeveloped industrial neighborhood that’s still growing, so dining and hotels are mostly a short drive or taxi away. For pre-show meals or drinks, the nearby Jack London Square and Oakland downtown districts offer the closest great options. For example, just a few minutes by car are eateries like Hops & Hominy (Southern cuisine), Belcampo Meats, Rock Wall Wine Company, or the historic Heinold’s First and Last Chance Saloon. Oxbow or Wood Tavern, Shakewell, and other hip spots are about a mile further north up Broadway in Uptown. If you prefer grab-and-go, some nights food trucks park outside or there are quick spots (coffee shops, pizza, Thai) along 3rd Street. Bars such as Lost & Found Saloon, Low Bar, or Barsillio & Kym’s Kitchen are in Downtown or Chinatown within a couple miles. For late-night departure, keep in mind BART runs until midnight (check schedules) and buses taper off, so rideshares fill in afterwards. Nearby hotels include the Marriott City Center (1.4 miles north), Office Building Hotel (Graduate Stanford by Jack London Square), and Best Western Bayside (off 880 in Emeryville) – all 10–15 minutes away by car. Allow extra time if you plan to eat out or catch a last train. In most cases visitors recommend arriving 45 minutes early: this leaves time to grab a drink or bite, use the restroom, and account for any parking lines before doors officially open. Check traffic apps before driving, and note that the neighborhood is quieter late at night, so plan a safe ride-share or shuttle back.
What Makes This Venue Special
The Loom’s unique character stems from its blend of rich history, industrial architecture, and community-driven purpose. The building was once the massive California Cotton Mills (largest west of the Mississippi in its day) – a landmark now listed on the National Register (localwiki.org ). Today, it’s reborn as a creative cultural hub. Inside, the soaring wood-beam ceiling and antique brick walls preserve that heritage, but every modern feature (from stage lighting to a green building strategy) nods to Oakland’s future. Designers even incorporate ecological themes – plazas and gardens oriented around sun and moon cycles – into the complex’s master plan (www.fletcher.studio ), setting it apart as not just a venue but an eco-art campus. The Loom also matters culturally: it’s explicitly dedicated to supporting local and BIPOC artists, providing affordable studios and performance space (www.artsandmedia.net ). It was co-created by community leaders (arts educators and producers) working with a values-driven developer (www.kqed.org ). Performers and fans love it for its authenticity – many comment that The Loom “feels like Oakland,” a gritty meets arty vibe you can’t find in a cookie-cutter club. Notable moments have already taken place here: from chart-topping album-launch concerts (Oakland’s own G-Eazy) to festivals celebrating African and Caribbean diaspora music. In short, The Loom is special because it marries beautifully repurposed industrial form with a big-hearted mission: fueling Oakland’s creative scene and welcoming audiences into a space that looks and feels unlike any other Bay Area venue.
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: The Loom is wheelchair-friendly with ramped entry and roomy paths. Accessible seating (near the back or side for a clear view) is available on request, and restrooms are ADA-compliant. If you use assistance devices, note there are no steps inside the event hall. What to bring: A valid photo ID (to buy alcohol) and your e-ticket or printed ticket. Small purses or bags are okay, but large backpacks or suitcases are not allowed. The venue enforces a strict “one bag” policy, and staff may inspect it. Pens or markers are fine, but professional camera equipment (DSLRs with large lenses) is usually prohibited unless media-approved; smartphone photos and casual video are generally tolerated at most shows (though always check the specific event policy). Dress code: Casual attire is the norm. Many concert-goers wear jeans, tees or edgy concert attire. Footwear should be comfortable (no flip-flops on a dance floor), though heels are fine too if you’re careful on concrete. It can get warm on the dance floor, so dressing in layers or moisture-wicking clothing helps. Age restrictions: The Loom is mostly all-ages friendly, but events serving alcohol will require you to be 21+ with ID for drinks. Family-friendly shows (if any) are clearly marked. Call ahead if bringing minors. Arriving early: Doors often open 45–60 minutes before showtime. Arriving right at opening is wise for good spots. Long lines do form at popular shows, so earlier arrival means shorter waits. While you wait, take the chance to scope the merch table or grab a drink. Crowd and safety: Shows here can draw spirited fans, so if you’re standing near the stage, be mindful of dancing and moshing. Earplugs can be a good idea on loud shows. Security staff patrol the venue – they’re experienced and helpful. If you need assistance or water, flag a staff member. Prohibited items: No outside alcohol, no weapons, no illegal drugs. Smoking (tobacco or vaping) is not allowed indoors – use the designated outdoor areas if needed. Check the event’s posted rules for any special restrictions (for example, some performances ban flash photography or large signatures flags). Connectivity: Cell phone signal inside can be weak. There is no public Wi-Fi, so plan accordingly. Posting online or texting between songs may be slow. Late exit: After the show, know local transit schedules (buses and BART may close around midnight or earlier) and plan your ride in advance if needed. The neighborhood is quiet late at night, so we suggest using official taxis or rideshares if you’re unfamiliar with the area. Overall, The Loom is very welcoming, but like any club venue, wearing closed-toe shoes, keeping valuables secure, and double-checking your keys and belongings before heading in will help make your visit safe and enjoyable.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is The Loom Oakland located?
The Loom is in East Oakland’s Jingletown/Brooklyn Basin neighborhood at 2150 Livingston Street (near 22nd Avenue). It’s a few blocks east of I-880 and roughly 1.5 miles from Jack London Square. The historic venue occupies the old California Cotton Mills building, just south of Fifth Avenue Marina.
What types of events are held at The Loom?
The Loom features a wide range of live events. You’ll find concerts (rock, hip-hop, electronic, world music, etc.), dance parties, cultural festivals, art shows, and community gatherings. Promoters regularly book both local acts and touring artists. The venue also hosts special events like holiday markets or class performances, but music concerts and DJ nights are most common. Check online listings for current shows.
How do I purchase tickets for events at The Loom?
Tickets are sold through each event’s organizer. The Loom itself does not have a general box-office storefront. Most tickets are available online via authorized ticketing sites (often linked from the event’s own promotion). In some cases a limited number of tickets may be sold at the door on the night of show (cash or card), but popular events often sell out. It’s best to buy in advance through the official seller for that specific concert or event.
Are tickets ever sold at the door for Loom shows?
Yes, but only if the show isn’t sold out in advance. Some events offer a small number of tickets at the door starting when doors open. To be safe, especially for popular acts, don’t rely on door sales. Purchasing ahead guarantees entry. If you do try for tickets at the door, arrive early (doors often open 45–60 minutes before the posted show time) and bring cash or card for payment.
What is the seating arrangement at The Loom – general admission or reserved?
Nearly all shows at The Loom are general admission (standing room) on the main floor. The space is a wide open warehouse, so there are no fixed seats. Promoters may bring in some folding chairs or tables for corporate or dinner events, but for concerts it’s typically first-come, first-served standing. For special VIP tickets, you may get access to a small roped-off area or a table, but this depends on the event. In summary: standard shows = GA floor, and any seating is event-specific.
What is the capacity of The Loom?
The Loom’s main event hall fits roughly 500–600 people when fully used. This figure is an estimate for standing-room concerts (it’s about 3,500 square feet of floor). Actual capacity can vary by event layout (for example, plus additional seats or stage size). But in general, think of it as a mid-size club; it’s smaller than an arena but larger than a tiny bar.
Is VIP or reserved seating available at The Loom?
Some events do offer VIP or reserved options, but it depends entirely on the organizer. VIP tickets might include a table area near the stage, or a raised viewing platform. If a show has VIP seats, it will be advertised (often labeled “VIP pass” or similar) and usually costs more than GA. Check the event description when buying. If available, reserved areas are usually at the edges or back of the hall, allowing space for other guests.
How do I park when attending a show at The Loom?
Street parking is very limited right at The Loom. You’ll mainly find metered spaces or permit zones on nearby side streets, which often fill up quickly. For public parking, look for pay lots in the Brooklyn Basin area. For example, there’s a parking garage at 260 Brooklyn Basin Way (reserve via SpotHero or similar apps). Another option is the Brooklyn Basin Ferry parking, if available. In all cases, arriving early helps. Rideshares and taxis are popular to avoid parking hassle. Remember, there’s no dedicated public lot specifically for Loom events, so plan on walking a few blocks if needed.
Which public transit options serve The Loom?
The Loom is not directly on a BART line. The nearest station is 19th Street Oakland (about a 1.5-mile walk or short bus ride away). Lake Merritt BART is another option (similar distance). From either station, you can catch AC Transit buses to reach the venue. In particular, routes like the 22 (to Alcatraz/Lakeshore) and 62 (to San Pablo/MacArthur) stop within a few blocks. Check AC Transit’s latest schedules – lines can change. There are also Broadway buses (such as 12 or 18) a mile north that pass near 23rd Ave. In summary, you’ll typically take BART into downtown Oakland, then a short bus/Uber to Livingston & 22nd Ave. Google Maps or transit apps will give you exact connections on the day you travel.
Is The Loom accessible for guests with disabilities?
Yes, The Loom is designed to be ADA-compliant. The main entrance has level access (no steps), and the venue’s wide open layout allows wheelchair users to navigate the floor easily. Accessible seating/viewing areas are located toward the sides or back of the hall – just let staff know on arrival and they’ll direct you. Restrooms are modern and wheelchair-accessible. If you need any additional accommodations (e.g. hearing assistance), it’s best to contact the venue ahead of time. Parking for disabled guests is limited, so give yourself extra arrival time to find a suitable spot.
Can I bring outside food or drinks into The Loom?
No – outside food and alcoholic beverages are not allowed. The Loom has an on-site bar where you can buy drinks (beer, wine, cocktails, sodas, water) during the event. Some performances may have a small concession or food truck available, but you should plan to purchase snacks or leave and re-enter if allowed. Water is typically sold at the bar. Feel free to eat beforehand; there are eateries within a short drive or walk (see the “Nearby Amenities” section above).
What is the bag and camera policy at The Loom?
The Loom enforces a standard no-large-bags policy. You should bring no more than a small purse or backpack (knapsacks and large bags are usually refused). All bags are subject to inspection at entry. As for photography, casual smartphone photos and video are generally allowed, but professional cameras (interchangeable lenses) or recording devices may be prohibited unless explicitly cleared for media use. Flash photography or bright lighting is often not allowed during shows. If in doubt, check the specific event rules or ask staff (they’ll let you know if you can keep your camera).
Is smoking permitted inside or near The Loom?
Smoking of any kind is prohibited indoors by California law. If you smoke, you must step outside the building (there are usually designated smoking areas on the sidewalk or in the courtyard). Vaping and e-cigarettes are also not allowed inside. This rule helps keep the air clear for all patrons. Remember to extinguish cigarettes before re-entering and dispose of butts properly.
Are there age restrictions for events at The Loom?
Most events at The Loom are open to all ages. However, if alcohol is served, attendees must be 21+ to drink and show valid ID at request. Some concerts, especially late-night DJ shows, may be 18+ or 21+, but this will be clearly noted on the ticket or event page. If you’re bringing a minor (under 18), check the event details – some babysitter-friendly shows and daytime community events do allow kids. In general, adolescents and teens accompanied by an adult are welcome at most performances, but bag checks and ID checks still apply.
When do the doors open for shows at The Loom?
Doors typically open 45–60 minutes before the scheduled show time, although this can vary by event. The official door time will be listed on your ticket or the event’s announcement. It’s a good idea to arrive at or slightly before that time, since headliners often start roughly 30–60 minutes after the posted show time due to support acts. Early arrival also lets you find a good spot on the floor, use the restroom, and get a drink before the show starts. If you plan to buy merchandise, arriving early is especially wise.
Are there restaurants and bars near The Loom for pre-show dinner or drinks?
Yes. While The Loom’s neighborhood is mostly redeveloped industrial blocks, just a short drive or ride away are many restaurant and bar options. Jack London Square (about 5 minutes west) has waterfront seafood spots and brewpubs (Hops & Hominy, Rock Wall Wine). Broadway/Uptown (1-2 miles north) has trendy eateries like Shakewell or Incontro. For a quicker bite, a few casual cafes and Thai/Indian restaurants are within a mile on 3rd Street. Bars such as Lost & Found Saloon or Lucca are downtown. Plan to go 30–60 minutes early if you dine or drink nearby, as these areas get busy on concert nights.
What hotels are near The Loom for out-of-town guests?
The nearest hotels are downtown or in nearby Emeryville. About a 5–10 minute drive away you’ll find options like the Marriott City Center (downtown Oakland), the Waterfront Hotel (by Jack London Square), and the Graduate Hotel. A bit further but still convenient is the Holiday Inn Oakland or the Marriott Emeryville near I-80. These are typically 2–3 miles from The Loom. If staying near The Loom, also check Airbnb or local motels. Just remember to allow extra travel time on event nights to avoid traffic congestion when getting to and from the venue.
Where do ride-sharing services drop off passengers at The Loom?
Ride-share drivers typically drop off at the main entrance on Livingston Street (look for the venue sign and crowd). Since the building faces 22nd Avenue, many drivers will pull up on Livingston or the nearby East Peralta/22nd Ave corner. During busy events, drivers are often directed to a specific loading zone. If in doubt, tell your driver to stop just outside the Loom’s entrance doors on Livingston—there’s space for quick passenger drop-off there.
What is ‘Fabrik at The Loom’?
“Fabrik @ The Loom” is an outdoor festival-style market next to the main building. It’s a community pop-up made of repurposed shipping containers and open-air stalls. Local artists and craftspeople set up small shops or tables in the parking lot during certain events and weekends. You’ll find handmade goods, art exhibits, pop-up eateries, and live demos there. It’s meant to highlight local makers. If Fabric is open on the evening of a show, you can browse the vendors before or after the concert.
Does The Loom have a coat check or lockers?
Yes, a coat check service is usually available on the main floor near the entrance coatroom. It’s often run by volunteers or staff during large events. Check at the box office table or entrance for a coat check counter or locker area when you arrive. There is typically a small fee or suggested donation. Lockers are not provided, so coat check is your best option for storing jackets or large bags for the night.
