San Jose's Momentum Builds: Record Visitors and Business Growth in 2025

Downtown San Jose welcomed 15.9 million visitors from January to June this year, marking a clear increase from the previous period. This surge reflects growing interest in the area's attractions, from new restaurants to public events that draw crowds. Sixteen food and beverage spots opened in the past 12 months, adding fresh options for dining and gathering. Events like DJ performances by Fisher and Steve Aoki on Santa Clara Street brought thousands together, fostering a sense of community pride against the backdrop of City Hall.

Public art installations have also played a role in enlivening the spaces. Giant folk-art sculptures known as Alebrijes appeared around Plaza de Cesar Chavez during the San Jose Jazz Summer Fest, offering unique experiences that encourage exploration. City leaders emphasize activating public areas creatively to attract more people, building on the organic energy from local developers and restaurateurs who shape the Downtown vibe from within.

Safety remains a priority, with San Jose earning recognition as the safest large U.S. city in a recent study. Crime against persons dropped nearly 12 percent in the first ten months compared to last year, while efforts to address homelessness have cleared encampments along the Guadalupe River and improved areas like Arena Green. These steps contribute to a cleaner, more welcoming environment that supports the return of office workers and boosts visitor confidence.

Business activity shows strong progress citywide, with 933 new business tax certificates issued this year, including 104 in Downtown. Hotel occupancy rose about 3 percent, and food and beverage sales tax revenue hit an all-time high, surpassing pre-pandemic levels by 21 percent. This growth positions San Jose as a dynamic hub ready for major events in the coming year, like the Super Bowl and World Cup matches.

Source: SVBJ

New Renderings Showcase Innovative Tower Design for Downtown San Jose

Fresh renderings have emerged for the Fountain Alley mixed-use project at 35 South Second Street in Downtown San Jose, revealing a pair of residential towers designed by the renowned Bjarke Ingels Group. The development sits along South Second Street between Santa Clara and San Fernando Streets, near the historic Bank of Italy tower. This project forms part of a broader master plan led by developers Westbank and Urban Community, aiming to enhance the urban fabric with modern housing and community spaces.

The two towers reach heights of 279 feet and 289 feet, featuring balconies lined with trees to integrate greenery into the skyline. Materials such as aluminum, terracotta-toned glass-fiber-reinforced concrete, and curtainwall glass create a distinctive facade that blends contemporary style with the surrounding environment. Bionic handles the landscape architecture, while Kier and Wright serve as civil engineers, and Glotman Simpson oversees structural engineering, ensuring a thoughtful approach to the site's integration.

Inside, the project includes 768 apartments with a mix of 177 studios, 413 one-bedroom units, 152 two-bedroom options, and 26 three-bedroom residences. About 38 units will offer affordable housing for very low-income households through state density bonus provisions. Ground-floor retail spans 10,700 square feet, complemented by a pedestrian plaza, 45,000 square feet of basement parking, and space for 417 bicycles in a four-level subterranean garage. The total built area covers 831,600 square feet, primarily dedicated to housing.

This addition promises to bring more residents and activity to Downtown San Jose, supporting the area's evolution into a lively hub for living and leisure. Six projects in total are underway from the same developers in Downtown San Jose, including one already in early construction stages.

For more details, visit https://sfyimby.com/2025/12/new-renderings-for-big-designed-tower-in-downtown-san-jose.html.

San Jose's Energy Surge: Doubling Power Capacity for Data Center Boom

San Jose is preparing to double its current power usage with two gigawatts of new capacity arriving over the next five years. This expansion targets areas ripe for development, including greenfield sites and empty warehouses ready for transformation. PG&E is committing $2.4 billion to upgrade infrastructure, ensuring reliable energy delivery that supports rapid growth in the tech sector.

Data centers emerge as a key focus, with city leaders highlighting their potential to benefit everyone. These facilities could generate utility tax revenue to fund essential services like police, fire departments, and libraries. At the same time, the added load from data centers might reduce residential utility rates by spreading infrastructure costs across a broader base, preventing hikes for existing customers.

To streamline progress, San Jose has formed a dedicated data center development team. This group guides developers through city processes, accelerating projects across the city's 180 square miles of available land. The initiative invites investment, positioning San Jose as a competitive alternative in Silicon Valley despite past challenges like high costs and power limits.

As neighboring areas like Santa Clara also enhance their capacities, the region as a whole strengthens. For residents and businesses, these developments promise jobs, economic vitality, and a forward-looking city embracing the demands of advanced technology.

Source: SVBJ

San Jose's Musical Heritage Takes Center Stage: South Bay Flashback Exhibit

History Park's Leonard and David McKay Gallery hosts an exhibit that dives into San Jose's pivotal place in rock history. Titled South Bay Flashback: Riffs, Rhythms, and Revolution, the display features '60s rock posters from concerts that shaped the era. Icons like Jimi Hendrix, the Doors, Grateful Dead, and Jefferson Airplane performed here, laying groundwork for cultural shifts that extended beyond music into technology and innovation.

San Jose played a key role in the counterculture movement, influenced by figures from the Beat generation such as Neal Cassady, Jack Kerouac, Allen Ginsberg, and Ken Kesey. While places like Haight-Ashbury and Monterey gained wider fame, the South Bay quietly fueled these transformations. This collection reminds visitors of the city's contributions, encouraging a fresh appreciation for its archives preserved through efforts like those of the McKay family.

Recent events build on this legacy, including the December 4 unveiling of a Grateful Dead plaque at City Hall by San Jose Rocks. Such markers honor the band's ties to the area and draw attention to ongoing stories. Meanwhile, the independent live music scene thrives at unexpected spots like AJ's Bikini Bar and Jade Cathay Cantonese restaurant, where performers keep the spirit alive despite venue changes.

For more on the exhibit, visit https://historysanjose.org/

Source: San Jose Inside

Goodwill's New Collaborative Space will Boost San Jose Nonprofits

Goodwill of Silicon Valley recently purchased a $17 million office building at 1600 Technology Drive in San Jose. This acquisition not only provides a new home for Goodwill, relocating from their previous location at 1080 North Seventh Street, but also opens up opportunities for other organizations to join in. The nearly 200,000-square-foot facility is designed to become a shared environment where nonprofits can operate together, fostering stronger community ties.

The first organization to move in is Abode Services, a Bay Area nonprofit dedicated to homeless services and affordable housing. They have secured a five-year lease for one entire floor at a below-market rate. Starting next week, Abode will consolidate operations from four different sites, including their administrative office in Fremont, into this San Jose location. This setup promises efficiency and closer collaboration with like-minded groups.

By turning the building into a hub for nonprofits and innovators, Goodwill aims to encourage the exchange of ideas, build partnerships, and create effective solutions for local challenges. San Jose benefits from this kind of initiative, as it strengthens the network of support services available to residents. More organizations are expected to join, expanding the impact on issues like housing and community development.

This development underscores San Jose's potential as a leader in social progress, where collaborative spaces help address pressing needs. As these nonprofits settle in, the city gains another asset in its efforts to support vulnerable populations and promote inclusive growth. Residents interested in getting involved can explore volunteer opportunities with these organizations to contribute directly.

Source: SVBJ

Merry Christmas 2025!

We hope that you and your family have the best holidays this year!

If you feel like driving through neighborhoods to find the best decorated homes in San Jose, there is a handy website for that over here. Some of the homes have been featured on TV shows and even have light shows synced to music. It's a handy guide for a holiday adventure!

Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays! 🎄🎅🎁

Blinky's Drive-Thru Holiday Lights: San Jose's Sparkling Tradition Glows Brighter in 2025

San Jose welcomes back a beloved holiday staple with Blinky's Drive-Thru Holiday Light Show at Christmas in the Park, transforming the Santa Clara County Fairgrounds into a wonderland of festive illuminations. This drive-thru experience invites families and friends to cruise through elaborate light displays from the comfort of their vehicles, creating memorable evenings under twinkling arches and animated scenes. Open through December 31, the event runs on weeknights from 6 to 10 p.m. and weekends from 5 to 11 p.m., with a special Black Friday start on November 28 from 6 to 11 p.m.

The Fairgrounds location, accessible via Gate F on Umbarger Road, makes it easy for anyone in the South Bay to join the fun, whether coming from Downtown San Jose or further south. As cars wind through the path, guests encounter vibrant setups that highlight holiday themes, from classic winter motifs to playful surprises. This year's iteration builds on the tradition's appeal, drawing crowds eager for a low-key yet enchanting outing that supports local festivities. Donations through the Christmas in the Park Annual Giving Campaign help sustain these efforts, ensuring the lights shine for generations.

For tickets starting at $25, visit https://christmasinthepark.myshopify.com/pages/blinkys-drive-thru-2025

Nvidia is Building a Data Center in North San Jose

An office building in North San Jose gains new purpose as Nvidia transforms it into a data center. The company began leasing the nearly 100,000-square-foot property at 300 Holger Way late last year. Owned by a Menlo Equities affiliate, the site undergoes exterior renovations now, with full data center work set to start in December 2026 and finish by July 2027.

This move aligns with the rising demand for AI infrastructure across the Bay Area. Data centers form the backbone for advanced computing, and Nvidia's expansion highlights San Jose's role in this sector. Recent deals nearby include a $97 million purchase of a data center in Santa Clara and plans for mixed-use development with a data center in Downtown San Jose.

Operations at the facility will run around the clock every day, including holidays. Security measures feature on-site staff, cameras, and badge-only access for authorized personnel. The setup ensures smooth integration with the neighborhood through adherence to local codes on noise, lighting, and environmental standards.

Nvidia's commitment also extends beyond this project, with recent acquisitions of office space in Santa Clara for further expansion.

Source: TheRealDeal

Sutter Health's Building a New Hospital Campus in Santa Clara

Sutter Health plans to build an eight-story, 272-bed hospital near Levi's Stadium in Santa Clara, marking the centerpiece of a $2.8 billion investment in the region. This development, alongside a recently opened east campus and new ambulatory centers focused on cancer and women's health, represents the organization's largest facilities commitment ever. Set for completion in 2031, the project occupies 13.6 acres along Mission College Boulevard, close to Highway 101 and Great American Parkway, enhancing access for San Jose residents and the broader Silicon Valley community.

The new facility will feature private patient rooms with capacity for 30 additional beds, a full-service emergency department, intensive care units, labor and delivery suites, operating rooms, and a rooftop helipad for rapid transports. Two existing buildings on the site will be demolished, while three others remain for quicker adaptation into care spaces, potentially ready for patients within a few years. This expansion builds on Sutter's longstanding presence through the Palo Alto Foundation Medical Group, which has served the area since 1993 and now recruits 100 more physicians.

By opening, the campuses will employ around 3,000 staff and clinicians, creating jobs and strengthening the local economy. The initiative addresses the region's shortage of hospital beds, easing strain on facilities like Santa Clara Valley Medical Center and fostering competition with providers such as Kaiser Permanente and Good Samaritan Hospital. Faster critical care becomes possible, meeting residents where they live and work in this growing tech hub.

This project completes Sutter's network on the Peninsula, offering integrated services from Burlingame to Sunnyvale and beyond. For San Jose, it means elevated healthcare options, drawing top talent and positioning the city as a leader in medical innovation amid Silicon Valley's dynamic landscape.

For more details on Sutter Health's expansion, visit https://www.sutterhealth.org/

Source: SVBJ

Celebrate Christmas Day with a Festive Brunch at Signia by Hilton San Jose

The holiday season brings plenty of reasons to gather in San Jose, and one standout option awaits at Signia by Hilton San Jose. The hotel's Fountain Restaurant hosts a special Christmas Day buffet on December 25, offering a relaxed way for families and friends to savor the day. This experience focuses on high-quality dishes that highlight seasonal flavors, all without the usual kitchen duties at home.

Diners can look forward to selections like prime rib enhanced with truffle, Yorkshire pudding, and brown sugar glazed ham. A dedicated seafood and sushi bar adds variety, with delicious options to suit different tastes.

No holiday gathering skips the sweets, and this one delivers with a full dessert bar. Standouts include Bûche de Noël, crème brûlée, and a chocolate fountain ready for dipping. These treats provide a satisfying close to the feast, appealing to everyone at the table. The buffet starts at 11 a.m. and costs up to $110 per person, making it a pricey but worthwhile choice for a memorable meal.

The location elevates the day further, as Signia by Hilton San Jose connects directly to key holiday spots in Downtown San Jose. After brunch, visitors can explore the lighted displays at Christmas in the Park or enjoy skating at the Circle of Palms rink. These traditions create opportunities to extend the celebration outdoors.

For reservations, visit https://www.opentable.com/r/fountain-restaurant-san-jose.

Amazon's Last-Mile Hub: Bringing 600 Jobs to South San Jose

Amazon will be building a new distribution center at the corner of South Seventh Street and East Alma Avenue. The company acquired the 17.8-acre site five years ago for $59.3 million, and now is moving forward to replace six existing industrial buildings with a modern facility. This last-mile e-commerce hub totals 106,800 square feet, including 8,700 square feet of office space and 36,600 square feet for staging and loading, designed to handle efficient package sorting and dispatch.

Operations run 24 hours a day, with deliveries scheduled between 10 a.m. and 9:30 p.m. to serve customers in San Jose and surrounding spots like Campbell, Los Gatos, Scotts Valley, and Santa Cruz. Up to 52 truck trips daily bring items to the site, where workers prepare them for final delivery via vans. This setup strengthens local logistics, making faster shipments a reality for the community.

The project creates 600 jobs, with no more than 400 employees on site at once, adding to San Jose's employment landscape. Demolition starts in July 2026, followed by site preparation and grading through early 2027, with building construction wrapping up by October 2027 and full completion in December 2027. These timelines ensure steady progress toward operational readiness.

Source: SiliconValley.com

Silicon Valley Bid Shines: Potential Host for 2031 Women's World Cup

The Bay Area steps forward as a contender to host matches for the 2031 FIFA Women's World Cup, part of a joint bid from the United States, Mexico, Costa Rica, and Jamaica. This submission stands alone as the only proposal received by FIFA, paving the way for an expanded tournament featuring 48 nations for the first time. Levi's Stadium in Santa Clara and Oracle Park in San Francisco appear among 49 venues across 35 cities in the official bid book, with selections narrowing to about 20 sites in coming years.

This opportunity builds on the region's thriving women's sports scene, recognized in November as the top city for women's athletics in the U.S. by The Athletic. Bay FC shattered attendance records with over 40,000 fans at an August game in Oracle Park, while the Golden State Valkyries achieved historic feats in their debut WNBA season, including playoff qualification and sold-out home games. The Bay Area Host Committee works to amplify these events, fostering visibility, tourism, and community ties through sports.

Recent successes underscore the area's readiness, such as hosting the National Women's Soccer League championship on November 22 at PayPal Park in San Jose. Looking ahead, the 2026 Men's World Cup at Levi's Stadium brings exciting group stage action with Qatar facing Switzerland on June 13, Austria against Jordan on June 15, Paraguay versus a European playoff winner on June 18, Jordan meeting Algeria on June 22, and Australia challenging Paraguay on June 25, plus a round of 32 matchup on July 1. These gatherings set the stage for even greater impact in 2031.

The tournament promises substantial economic lift, with projections of at least $4 billion in revenue from ticket sales alone as the premier women's sporting event globally. For San Jose and surrounding communities, hosting would draw international crowds to local venues, hotels, and attractions, enhancing the city's profile amid Silicon Valley's innovation hub.

For additional information on the Bay Area's involvement, visit https://www.bayareahostcommittee.com/

Source: SVBJ

Willow Glen Christmas Map

Quick post to share a handy map of the amazing Christmas decorations in Willow Glen. I highly recommend doing a drive through, or better yet taking a stroll along the streets in the upper left. You might even find bacon-wrapped hotdog vendors on corners and kids selling hot chocolate. 

Another honorable mention that is just south of this map is the "Make a Wish" house at 1334 Robsheal Dr. that raises six-figures for charity every year. They even offer photos with Santa on the weekend.

Source: Stella Ma, Willow Glen Neighbors FB

San Jose Accelerates Growth: First Streamlined Approval for Major Housing Project

San Jose hits a new milestone with the approval of a 540-unit mixed-use development at 3896 Stevens Creek Boulevard, the first under a policy designed to expedite large infill projects. This Holland Partner Group initiative replaces existing commercial structures on nearly five acres with two eight-story buildings featuring apartments, retail space, and ample open areas. The process took just eight months, a sharp contrast to the typical 20 months for similar reviews, demonstrating the city's commitment to efficient development.

The project includes 264 units in one building and 276 in the other, offering a range of studios, one-bedrooms, and two-bedrooms. While most cater to market rates, 27 units serve households at 50 percent of the area median income, addressing diverse needs. Located near transit in a designated growth area, the development meets criteria for fast-tracking, bypassing lengthy hearings and environmental reviews to get construction underway sooner.

This approval aligns with San Jose's goal to add 62,200 homes by 2031, tackling high costs that have slowed progress. By reducing barriers, the city encourages investment that boosts vibrancy along corridors like Stevens Creek. Residents gain from new retail options and community spaces, while the effort positions San Jose as a model for sustainable rapid expansion in California.

Source: The Mercury News

San Jose Unified's Housing Vision: 288 Apartments for Dedicated Educators

San Jose Unified School District advances plans for a 288-unit apartment complex at 760 Hillsdale Avenue, designed specifically for its employees. This initiative addresses the challenge of providing stable homes for teachers and staff amid rising living expenses. The development occupies a vacant parcel next to Highway 87, creating convenient access for those working in the area's education sector.

The project targets the missing middle group of workers who earn above limits for many subsidized options yet struggle with market rents. District leaders recognize that even top earners face barriers to comfortable living in the city. By converting unused land into residential space, the effort turns underutilized property into a community asset, aligning with San Jose's push to increase housing production.

Funding comes from a $1.15 billion bond approved by voters in November 2024, with $282.5 million allocated here. The site sits adjacent to the district's Silicon Valley Education Campus and near light rail lines, promoting easy commutes and sustainable growth. This setup ensures high-quality builds comparable to private developments, fostering retention of skilled professionals.

As San Jose works toward state-required annual housing targets of over 7,700 units, projects like this help close the gap. The apartments promise to draw and keep talented individuals committed to student success, enhancing San Jose's educational landscape and overall appeal.

For more details on the project, visit https://www.sjusd.org/

Source: The Mercury News

San Jose Takes Flight: Safeland Air Taxi Pilot Program at Mineta International Airport

San Jose Mineta International Airport is launching the Safeland pilot program. This initiative partners with Bell-Dancy Industries and Signature Aviation to test autonomous air traffic management systems. Starting with drones to validate the technology, the program advances to larger electric vertical takeoff and landing vehicles (VTOL), paving the path for safe air taxi operations in the Bay Area.

The collaboration creates a real-world testing environment at the airport, focusing on infrastructure that ensures reliability for future travelers. In the Capitol of Silicon Valley, SJC is positioning itself at the forefront of reimagining transportation. This can be seen both with VTOL and other forms of autonomous transportation to and from the airport such as Waymo and Tesla Robotaxis.

This specific program aligns with the Federal Aviation Administration's efforts to accelerate advanced air mobility across the United States. By hosting these tests, San Jose contributes to broader goals like short-range air taxis and automated flights for medical transport or emergency services. Residents and visitors alike stand to benefit from smoother, more accessible skies.

Source: SVBJ

Winter Splendor at Cielo Rooftop: San Jose's Elevated Holiday Escape

Cielo has always been one of my favorite secret spots to take visitors up to when visiting Santana Row. It's hidden at the very top of Hotel Valencia and overlooks Plaza de Valencia with the Santa Cruz Mountains in the background. It's often open to enjoy the view, but is underutilized as a place to grab a drink or bite for most of the year. Fortunately, that is changing with it's very first Winter activation: Cielo Rooftop's Holiday Experience.

This reimagines Cielo as a cozy winter wonderland until January 10, 2026 featuring frosted pines, glowing fire pits, and plush seating draped in faux fur. Open Tuesday through Saturday from 5 to 9 p.m., the space creates an intimate outdoor retreat perfect for sipping drinks amid the city's soft evening lights. Closed on Sundays, Mondays, Christmas Day, New Year's Eve, and New Year's Day, and it operates weather permitting.

The experience also features an exclusive partnership with Piper-Heidsieck Champagne, highlighting bespoke cocktails, caviar pairings, and premium pours available by the glass or bottle. Menu selections include starters like butternut-coconut soup with vegetables or spicy chorizo croquettes, shared plates such as Spanish charcuterie with cheeses and cured meats, and entrees ranging from chickpea ratatouille with spinach and mozzarella to volcano lamb shank with spicy carrot puree with pickled red cabbage.

I was invited to sample the menu last week and thoroughly loved the experience. The warm butternut-coconut soup was perfect for a winter night and I would highly recommend having it with the optional braised beef. The spicy chorizo croquettes and volcano lamb shank are also a must. I practically licked the bone clean on the lamb.

Desserts round out the offerings with apple pie and a killer chocolate fondue with marshmallows, nuts, and fresh fruit. It's perfect for sharing on a date or with a group of friends.

I would also recommend trying the mulled wine, which is a seasonal drink that is not easy to find in the Bay Area. Seasonal cocktails include a spiced mule with pear vodka; the Santana 75 with gin, lemon, raspberries, and Piper-Heidsieck 1785; and a Hot Toddy with bourbon, honey, and lemon juice.

A $50 food and beverage minimum per person applies, which is very reasonable given the quality and uniqueness of the Cielo Rooftop's Holiday Experience. Since winter weather can be unpredictable, all seating is on a first-come, first-served basis. Amenities like space heaters, blankets, and hand warmers are available for guests. Bundling up is still recommended to get the most out of your night out, but it was a very cold night when I went and we were never uncomfortable thanks to the heaters.

I would highly recommend checking this out this holiday season. Try to get there early as they have been completely full on multiple nights. To get there, you have to head up to the Hotel Valencia lobby, then take a second set of elevators used for the hotel rooms up to the 7th floor. For more details, please visit https://www.hotelvalencia-santanarow.com/holidays-on-cielo-rooftop.htm.

DOCA Festival: A Glowing Holiday Wonderland in Downtown San Jose

Discovery Meadow has transformed into a radiant holiday spectacle with the DOCA Festival, spanning over five acres of illuminated displays. Open daily through January 4, 2026, from 4:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m., the event invites families and friends to wander through six distinct zones. Each area offers unique themes, from the snowy sparkle of White Christmas Wonderland with reindeer and twinkling lights to the vibrant Enchanted Jungle featuring giant caterpillars, dinosaurs, and the legendary Quetzalcoatl.

Visitors encounter more than 40 photo opportunities, including majestic 60-foot Christmas trees and surreal lightscapes inspired by deserts, gardens, and candy realms. The Golden Christmas zone glows with candlelit tunnels, while Cactus Mirage brings colorful creatures and Mexican motifs to life under the lights. Celestial Garden blooms with luminous flowers and zodiac trees, and Candy Wonderland delights with donut tunnels and ice cream-themed trees. These elements create immersive paths perfect for creating lasting memories in the heart of Silicon Valley.

Special evenings add extra charm, such as Christmas cosplay on December 25 and a New Year's Eve celebration on December 31. The venue accommodates all with wheelchair and stroller access, plus nearby parking and public transit options include VTA Light Rail or buses. This festival highlights Downtown San Jose's growing reputation as a seasonal destination, blending creativity and community spirit.

For tickets and more information, visit https://docafestival.com/

Earn Rewards While Supporting Downtown San Jose Businesses This Holiday Season

Downtown San Jose is offering a great incentive for shoppers this December with the Shop Small Downtown program from the San Jose Downtown Association. When you spend at least $150 at participating local businesses, you qualify for a $50 gift card in return. This promotion runs through December 24 and focuses on small shops, restaurants, and theaters that define the area's character. The gift card works at over 60 locations across Downtown, making it easy to keep the spending local and discover more spots.

Participating is straightforward. Collect your receipts from purchases made at eligible Downtown businesses starting from November 28. Once they total $150 or more, upload photos of them through the association's website for verification. If your entry is among the first 100 valid ones, the $50 gift card arrives soon after. Limited to one entry per person.

All valid entries, even beyond the first 100, go into a drawing for a grand prize. Two winners will each receive a $500 San Jose Downtown gift card at the promotion's end. By joining in, shoppers directly bolster the local economy and help sustain the unique businesses that make Downtown San Jose vibrant.

For details and to submit receipts, visit https://sjdowntown.com/shopdtsj I already got my $50 gift card (thanks to a great meal at Petiscos), now it's time to get yours!

Holiday San Jose Invites You to Shop Local This Season

The City of San Jose has launched its Holiday San Jose campaign to highlight the vibrant local retail scene and encourage everyone to support small businesses throughout the holiday period. This initiative features a comprehensive guide to 12 distinctive shopping districts across the city, showcasing more than 300 unique spots for shopping, dining, and gathering with loved ones. From family-owned boutiques to cozy eateries, these areas offer one-of-a-kind experiences that capture the essence of San Jose's diverse communities. The campaign builds on past efforts to promote economic vitality by directing attention to neighborhood gems often overlooked in favor of larger chains.

Participating in Holiday San Jose means investing directly in the city's future, as every purchase helps sustain jobs and contributes to the local economy. Dollars spent here circulate within the community, supporting entrepreneurs who bring cultural richness and innovation to San Jose. Neighborhoods like Winchester Row and Downtown San Jose stand out with their mix of historic charm and modern appeal, providing perfect settings for holiday outings. Business associations have collaborated to create maps and promotional materials that make it easy to explore these districts, whether on foot or by public transit.

Beyond shopping, the season comes alive with festive events that draw families and visitors alike. Christmas in the Park transforms Plaza de Cesar Chavez into a wonderland of lights and displays, running from late November through early January. History San Jose hosts the Children's Heritage Holiday on December 13, offering hands-on activities and cultural demonstrations for young attendees. For music lovers, the Holly Jolly Holiday event at Tech CU Arena on December 14 promises an entertaining performance to kick off celebrations.

Holiday San Jose also ties into broader recognition of the city as a top destination for seasonal cheer, with attractions like the Winchester Mystery House tours adding a touch of intrigue. Residents and tourists can plan staycations that include theater shows or outdoor skating, blending relaxation with discovery. The campaign reminds everyone that supporting local merchants strengthens the fabric of San Jose, paving the way for even more growth in the years ahead.

For the full guide and district details, visit https://www.sjeconomy.com/how-we-help/programs-and-services/holiday-san-jose

New Rooftop Views and Vietnamese Cuisine Coming to San Jose's SoFa District

A vacant building at 374 South First Street in Downtown San Jose's SoFa district prepares for a new chapter with plans for a Vietnamese restaurant and rooftop deck. Once home to popular spots like Eulipia Restaurant & Bar, Cafe Stritch jazz club, and Mama Kin, the two-story structure from 1927 has recently (and sadly) stood empty. Now, entrepreneur Viet Nguyen and architect Abraham Zavala aim to fill it with vibrant dining across both floors, complete with a bar and seating areas connected by stairs and an elevator.

The restaurant draws inspiration from Nguyen's successful ventures, such as Gao Kitchen & Bar in San Mateo and San Francisco, alongside Ben Tre Vietnamese Homestyle Cuisine locations in Millbrae, South San Francisco, and San Francisco. This addition will bring authentic Vietnamese flavors to SoFa, wish several Instagram-worthy dishes. The 8,000-square-foot building will undergo a full interior transformation to create welcoming environments on each level.

Crowning the project, a new rooftop deck of 850 to 1,000 square will offer panoramic views while being set back from the street for seamless integration with the neighborhood. This will be the first eatery with a rooftop view in SoFA and I'm pretty sure it will be the first 3-story restaurant in San Jose. This type of multi-level restaurant and bar setup is very appropriate for the neighborhood, which ideally should be brimming with activity until closing time.

Source: The Mercury News

PayPal Park's Concert Era: Bringing 15 Live Music Events to San Jose Each Year

San Jose has greenlit up to 15 concerts annually at PayPal Park, expanding the city's largest outdoor venue into a key spot for live music. This decision opens doors for major acts to perform between 9 a.m. and 11 p.m., adding to the limited options for large-scale shows in the area.

The concerts stand to invigorate the local economy through hundreds of jobs tied to event operations. Visitors from afar will fill hotels, while attendees head to nearby restaurants and bars before and after shows, creating a ripple effect. City leaders plan to track this impact using cellphone data, sales tax figures, and small business health metrics. Past events like those featuring electronic music artists near City Hall and in the SoFA District already attracted over 20,000 people, hinting at the potential for even greater activity around PayPal Park.

This development also promises to enhance Downtown San Jose, with spillover crowds exploring unique spots for dining and nightlife. As the region's biggest city, San Jose gains from these gatherings that foster community and draw attention to its evolving scene. The venue's location near retail areas could boost sales for businesses, as seen with a 15 percent increase during previous holiday events at the park.

To address potential issues, the city requires noise studies for the first two concerts and commits to monitoring effects on neighbors. Limits on the number of shows help balance excitement with resident comfort, ensuring adjustments if needed. Traffic concerns around exits like Coleman Avenue receive attention too, with hopes for smoother flow during events.

Overall, these concerts along with a future Levitt Pavilion in Downtown San Jose mark progress toward making San Jose a must-visit destination for music lovers.

Source: SVBJ

Nvidia's Hexagonal Headquarters Expansion: A Silicon Valley Power Move That Elevates San Jose's Tech Landscape

Nvidia has plans for a yet another striking pixelated office building in Santa Clara, just minutes from San Jose's vibrant core. The proposed 692,634-square-foot structure at 2300 and 2350 Walsh Avenue draws inspiration from the company's flagship headquarters, adopting a distinctive hexagonal form across three stories. Accompanied by three levels of underground parking and a pedestrian bridge spanning Walsh Avenue to link with an adjacent property, this development underscores the relentless forward momentum of innovation in our region. Acquired by Nvidia in May for $123 million, the site currently holds ten buildings set for transformation into a hub of cutting-edge work.

This project fits into Nvidia's aggressive 2025 real estate strategy, where the company has invested over $400 million in properties encircling its Santa Clara base. Another filing from May outlines a 324,000-square-foot facility at 2400 Condesa Street, blending offices, labs, and additional parking to fuel research and development. With Devcon Construction handling the build and Gensler leading the design, these initiatives promise to inject fresh energy into the local economy, drawing top engineers, researchers, and entrepreneurs who often commute through or settle in San Jose. The architectural review sits with Santa Clara city officials as of early December, hinting at construction that could break ground soon.

For San Jose residents and businesses, Nvidia's growth ripples outward like waves from a stone skipped across the Guadalupe River. As talent pools deepen and collaborative opportunities multiply, our city's own tech ecosystem stands to gain immensely. Watch for the hexagonal silhouette to become a new landmark in Silicon Valley's landscape.

Source: SVBJ

Bonus: BART Extension Takes Shape

Construction on the BART Silicon Valley Phase II project has advanced as crews at the West Portal site near PayPal Park and the Santa Clara train station have dug a launch shaft for the tunnel boring machine. This effort focuses on creating a cut-and-cover ramp where trains will enter and exit the underground tunnel, built by excavating to the required depth and then constructing a steel and concrete structure before backfilling.

The tunnel will stretch five miles eastward to connect with the Berryessa BART station, running 80 feet below ground. Tunnel boring is set to begin in the first quarter of 2028 or 2029 and continue for three to three and a half years. Three new underground stations will serve riders along the route at Diridon, Downtown San Jose, and 28th Street in Little Portugal. A fourth above-ground station will be built in Santa Clara.

With a projected opening in 2037 (sorry, but wtf?), the extension promises to link San Jose more closely to the broader Bay Area network. Current estimates place the cost between $12.1 billion and $12.5 billion, reflecting the scale of this infrastructure investment. The arrival of BART underground will open doors to new opportunities, from quicker trips to Silicon Valley jobs to seamless connections to Downtown San Jose.

Source: SVBJ

Pretty Good Advice Opens in Downtown San Jose: Elevating Vegetarian Eats with Local Roots

9am UPDATE: Ribbon Cutting has been postponed, new date will be shared soon.

Pretty Good Advice is celebrating its grand opening at 125 Paseo de San Antonio in Downtown San Jose today. The event kicks off at 12:15 p.m., with remarks and a ribbon cutting starting at 12:20 p.m. Speakers include Mayor Mahan, Councilmember Tordillos, representatives from the San Jose Downtown Association, and owner Matt McNamara. This marks the restaurant's third location and its first in San Jose, following outposts in Santa Cruz and Soquel, taking over the space once occupied by a Togo's that closed in 2024.

Owner Matt McNamara, a South Bay native who attended Bellarmine College Prep, brings a wealth of experience from Michelin-starred kitchens across Europe and the United States. His journey led to founding Sons & Daughters in San Francisco, which earned a Michelin star shortly after opening. In 2013, McNamara acquired an 83-acre farm in the Santa Cruz Mountains to grow fruits, herbs, mushrooms, and perennials, shifting his focus toward making high-quality, seasonal food accessible beyond fine dining settings. Pretty Good Advice emerged from this vision, offering a 100% vegetarian menu with vegan options, crafted with technique and care from local farms at approachable prices.

This addition enriches San Jose's diverse dining landscape, where McNamara sees the city as the top food destination in the United States right now. The restaurant's unique concept aligns with the area's blend of flavors and innovation, inviting locals and visitors to explore new vegetarian dishes amid a scene already packed with global cuisines.

For more information, visit https://www.prettygoodadvicerestaurant.com/

 

Rare 126-Unit Mixed-Use Development Approved for Willow Glen

San Jose has given the go-ahead for a seven-story mixed-use building at 940 Willow Street in Willow Glen, transforming a current liquor store site into 126 apartments. The project includes a mix of studios, one-bedrooms, two-bedrooms, and three-bedrooms, with 15 percent dedicated to very low-income households and another 15 percent to moderate-income ones. This approval leverages state laws to address housing needs, allowing development on a commercially zoned parcel that otherwise might not support residential units.

Developers from Redco have incorporated neighborhood-sensitive designs, such as adjusted building heights and architectural features that blend with Willow Glen's charm. Extra parking considerations aim to minimize disruptions, showing a commitment to fitting the project into the community's fabric. Supporters highlight the urgent need for more homes across the city, noting that areas like Willow Glen can contribute fairly to solving broader housing shortages.

While some residents expressed worries about traffic, sewer strain, and neighborhood character during hearings, city officials emphasized that state regulations guide the process to ensure safety and feasibility. The development passed review without findings of adverse health or safety impacts, paving the way for construction.

This addition stands to enrich Willow Glen by bringing new residents who will support nearby shops and services along "The Avenue." The design looks pretty good for a midrise project and overall from a development perspective it will be a tremendous improvement over the discount liquor store that sits there right now.

Source: The Mercury News

15 Years of Holiday Traditions at Fiesta Navideña

The Mexican Heritage Plaza in East San Jose comes alive each December with lights, music, and community spirit for Fiesta Navideña. This year marks the 15th annual gathering on Saturday, December 13, 2025, from 5:30 pm to 9:30 pm, with doors opening at 5:00 pm. Families and friends fill the space at 1700 Alum Rock Avenue to close out the year with free activities that highlight cultural roots and seasonal joy.

Carlos y Charlos take the stage for a free concert, delivering norteño and conjunto rhythms that echo through the Mayfair neighborhood. Their sound draws from legends like Los Alegres de Terán and Narciso Martinez, bringing energy that gets everyone moving. Alongside the music, Los Lupeños de San José perform folklórico dances, adding colorful motion and tradition to the evening.

Teatro Vision leads an interactive posada, inviting participants to join in a classic Mexican custom of hospitality and celebration. An art workshop welcomes all ages to create together, while local vendors sell handmade crafts and gifts. The scent of fresh tamales wafts through the air, rounding out the sensory experience.

Founded in 1999, the Mexican Heritage Plaza serves as a key cultural hub, hosting over 100,000 visitors annually through arts and events that strengthen community ties. Fiesta Navideña embodies this mission by uniting generations in a shared appreciation of heritage and resilience.

For registration and more information, visit https://www.eventbrite.com/e/fiesta-navidena-tickets-1830965891269

San Jose's 2026 Spotlight: Hosting the Super Bowl and World Cup

San Jose stands ready to welcome the world in 2026 with the Super Bowl and six FIFA World Cup matches at Levi's Stadium. This marks a historic moment as the first time any region hosts both events in the same year. Local leaders see this as an opportunity to showcase the city's vibrant energy, drawing visitors to explore Downtown San Jose's new restaurants and ongoing revitalization projects that connect its diverse districts.

The combined economic impact could exceed $1 billion, with the Super Bowl expected to attract 90,000 tourists and the World Cup bringing in 260,000 more. City officials aim to leverage this influx by creating activations around the events, such as culturally inspired concerts tied to participating countries. Businesses are encouraged to adapt, perhaps turning spots into fan headquarters for specific teams to enhance the festive atmosphere.

Tomorrow's World Cup draw on December 5 sets the stage for tailored experiences, revealing which nations will compete here and inspiring local plans. Beyond the stadium, the focus includes community events that offer Super Bowl or World Cup vibes without needing tickets, making the celebrations accessible to residents and visitors alike.

Team San Jose has introduced the San Jose 26 campaign to highlight hotels, dining, and attractions, paired with the Fly, Stay, Play initiative promoting the international airport as a gateway. This effort builds on the city's history of hosting major sports, from past Super Bowls to World Cup games, positioning San Jose as an emerging tourism destination for years ahead.

For more information on events and ways to get involved, visit https://sj26.sanjose.org/

Source: SVBJ

South First Fridays Lights Up Downtown San Jose with Art and Community

Every first Friday of the month (including today), Downtown San Jose transforms into a hub of creativity during South First Fridays, an evening dedicated to arts and culture in the SoFA district and surrounding areas. This free, all-ages event invites everyone to explore galleries, museums, and creative spaces from 5 to 9 PM, fostering connections among artists, locals, and visitors. With its roots in the vibrant SoFA neighborhood, the gathering extends to spots like the Historic District and Martha Gardens, offering a chance to wander through diverse venues and discover the city's artistic pulse.

Today, South First Fridays kicks off the holiday season with special exhibitions and live performances. Attendees can meet artists, participate in zine-making sessions, enjoy jazz jams, and view works ranging from international zine collections to quilts and contemporary installations. Highlights include curator-led tours, youth photography displays, and cultural storytelling, all designed to spark inspiration and holiday cheer.

Participating spots such as ANNO DOMINI, KALEID Gallery, MACLA, San Jose Institute of Contemporary Art, and San Jose Museum of Quilts & Textiles showcase a mix of solo shows, group exhibitions, and interactive activities. Other venues like San Jose Jazz for live music sets, Art Ark Gallery with its array of artists and tunes, and MACHU PICCHU Gallery of the Americas for handmade gifts from Indigenous artisans add layers of excitement. These locations, scattered along streets like South First and South Sixth, make it easy to hop from one discovery to the next.

This monthly tradition strengthens San Jose's reputation as a creative destination, drawing people to support local talent and explore unique offerings. Whether seeking affordable artworks starting at $15 or simply soaking in the community atmosphere, South First Fridays provides an accessible way to experience the city's cultural depth.