Join the Port Chicago Alliance for its Port Chicago Weekend, an annual public history initiative bringing the Bay Area together to honor the Port Chicago Sailors and their pivotal role in World War II and the civil rights movement.
Events are held July 17-19 with a special event at the Oakland Museum of California on July 11.
The weekend includes:
- Commemoration
- Exhibits
- Film Screenings
- Ship Tours
July 11: Mutiny at Port Chicago: Black Resistance and Redemption at Oakland Museum
- 1:00 pm – 3:00 pm
- $10 Ticketed Admission
Step back in time and explore the pivotal story of the East Bay’s Port Chicago Sailors at Mutiny at Port Chicago: Black Resistance and Redemption at the Oakland Museum of California. This special event commemorates Oakland’s officially designated Port Chicago Remembrance Day. It features a screening of the historical drama Mutiny, produced by Morgan Freeman, followed by an engaging discussion with feature guests Congresswoman Lateefah Simon, Antwanisha Williamson, and Cynthia Adams, moderated by Dayvee Sutton. Join us for an unforgettable afternoon of film, dialogue, and historical insight, hosted in partnership with the Port Chicago Alliance. — tickets + Info, click here
July 17: Sunset Salute in San Francisco
- 7:00 pm to 8:45 pm
- Yerba Buena Island
Port Chicago Monument at Panorama Park
On Port Chicago Remembrance Day, before the formal commemoration begins, we gather at the Port Chicago Monument overlooking the San Francisco Bay — adjacent to the historic site of the 1944 Port Chicago Mutiny Trial. Hosted by Port Chicago Alliance in partnership with the Treasure Island Museum, this sunset gathering offers an opportunity for community, reflection, and conversation in the landscape where history unfolded. Guests are invited to enjoy light refreshments and the elegant live jazz of the Lee Waterman Trio, whose repertoire spans timeless classics by Cole Porter, George Gershwin, Duke Ellington, Antônio Carlos Jobim, the Beatles, and other celebrated songwriters, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere as the sun sets over the bay. There are no formal speeches or ceremonies here, simply a chance to gather, connect, and reflect before the remembrance events of the following day. – More info
Image by National Parks Service – Luther Bailey
July 18: Port Chicago Commemoration
- 10:00 am
- Port Chicago Naval Magazine National Memorial
- Reservations are required.
Each year, the Port Chicago Naval Magazine National Memorial holds a commemoration event to honor the lives lost in the tragic explosion of July 17, 1944. The commemoration includes a solemn memorial ceremony, featuring speeches from guest speakers who reflect on the historical significance of the disaster. Information tables from both the park and various partners provide additional context and educational materials, enriching attendees’ understanding of the events and their aftermath. NOTE: Public access is available only through formal authorization and coordination with the National Park Service. Register HERE.
Image by Visit Port Chicago
July 18: Film Screening at Veranda of Glory
- 5:00 pm
- CinemaWest Veranda LUXE Cinema (Concord)
- This event requires registration.
Join us for a special free screening of the Academy Award-winning film Glory (1989) during Port Chicago Weekend at the Veranda LUXE Cinema in Concord. Starring Denzel Washington, Morgan Freeman, Matthew Broderick, and Cary Elwes, the film tells the story of the 54th Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry, one of the first Black regiments to serve in the Union Army during the Civil War. Through its powerful portrayal of military service, courage, sacrifice, and the pursuit of equality, Glory offers a moving historical experience that resonates with the themes of Port Chicago Weekend. Please be advised that Glory is Rated R for intense war violence, racism, and mature themes. The Veranda offers a variety of nearby dining and shopping options for guests to enjoy before or after the screening. — more info.
Image by Visit Port Chicago
July 19: Red Oak Victory Ship Tours
- 10:00 am to 4:00 pm
- Richmond Shipyards (1337 Canal Boulevard Berth 5, Richmond, CA 94804)
Admission provided free of charge through the support of Mechanics Bank and the Port Chicago Alliance.
Step aboard the historic Red Oak Victory for a day of live music, food, film screenings, vintage cars, and free, self-guided tours overlooking the San Francisco Bay. Admission is free all day, offering visitors a rare chance to explore one of the last remaining Victory Ships still afloat and learn about its vital role in World War II and maritime history. Guests are welcome to explore at their own pace and experience the ship’s decks, passageways, and historic spaces. Please note that access requires climbing a long gangway and multiple stairways throughout the vessel. For detailed visitor guidelines, including safety information and what to expect on board, please review the official guidance here: Preparing For Your Visit
For more information, visit: www.portchicagoweekend.org
