This past weekend was the Eat Real Festival in Jack London Square. It featured food and drink from Bay Area producers, music, crafts, and a variety of food-related demonstrations, from cheese making to backyard chickens. With food trucks and vendors from all over the Bay Area, there was a lot to choose from.

I got a different look at things this year, as I volunteered to help with setup and beverage service.

People-watchers, get ready.

Music and dancing - you really can't have one without the other.

So the merchants and residents of Oakland's Laurel District are doubling up and celebrating both art forms with a pair of free events on June 25.

Celebrating the renovation of historic Jefferson Square Park, as well as the anniversary of this community group, Old Oakland Neighbors, along with co-sponsors Councilwoman Nancy Nadel, Oakland Parks and Recreation, the Oakland Redevelopment Agency, Oakland Dog Owners Group - ODOG - and 10,000 Steps Oakland, invite the public to a community potluck and party from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.