The City of Oakland celebrated its 160th birthday with a series of citywide events last week, ending with a cake cutting ceremony by Mayor Jean Quan and City Administrator Deanne Santana.

The celebration commenced April 27 with a spring and summer recreation showcase sponsored by the Office of Parks and Recreation and concluded last Friday with Oakland’s monthly First Friday Art Murmur gallery.

Several city residents attended the ceremony on Friday, snapping photos and taking video of the memorable occasion. Many wore party hats made especially for the occasion, demonstrating the pride they have for their city.

“I love the City of Oakland and I am proud to say that I am an Oakland resident,” said Oakland native Charise Cater. “I believe in what Mayor Jean Quan is doing for the City of Oakland and I am sticking to her program.”

Quan and Santana greeted the large crowd of Oakland enthusiasts who assembled in front of City Hall for the cutting of the cake, as eager reporters from news organizations around the Bay Area bombarded the mayor with cameras and questions.

“Today we celebrate the City of Oakland’s 160th birthday with music and cake to commemorate the occasion,” said Quan with a huge smile on her face.

Quan, who faces a potential recall election this upcoming November, looked past the many problems the city faces and focused on the positive qualities Oakland has to offer, recalling how far the city has come since its beginnings.

Incorporated in 1852, Oakland has developed into the eighth largest city in California and has become one of the most ethnically diverse areas in the United States.

Oakland resident Theresa Collins has lived in Oakland for nearly 55 years, moving between the various neighborhoods during her lifetime.

“I have seen the city of Oakland go through a lot of changes over the years,” she said.

Quan commemorated the long strides the city has taken over the years, referencing Oakland’s recent placement on The New York Times’ “The 45 Places to Go in 2012” list.

During the celebration, the Oakland mayor walked freely through the crowd of people, shaking hands and taking photos of the memorous occasion.

People from all walks of life came together for the event, illustrating the multi-cultural aspects of the city.

“We are economically and culturally diverse; this is a city where families can afford to live. It’s a real city,” Quan told ABC7 News.

Quan welcomed residents to visit the newly restored City Hall model, which was damaged by Occupy Oakland protestors who broke into City Hall in January.

Santana praised the city of Oakland for being home to one of the largest activism movements in the United States, looking past the conflict it has caused between the city and protestors.

Various bands made up of Oakland natives entertained the crowd of people, as attendees danced and sang to the music. A strong sense of community resonated through Frank Ogawa Plaza and could be felt through the downtown streets of the city.

Donna Thompson contributed research to this report.