Santa Clara's Record Housing Surge

Santa Clara wrapped up 2025 with an impressive 2,768 new residential units, far surpassing the 155 completions from 2024 and earlier years. Most of these additions came as apartments and condominiums, with a small portion from accessory dwelling units and single-family homes. This wave of development marks a high point for the city, reflecting years of preparation that now deliver much-needed options amid the Bay Area's tight inventory.

The completions stem from projects that locked in financing before interest rates rose sharply. City officials credit efficient planning processes for keeping momentum strong, including detailed neighborhood plans that align with property owners' visions. These efforts streamlined approvals and construction, setting Santa Clara apart in a region where such progress often stalls.

Key activity centered in the Tasman East neighborhood, now known as The Clara District, where a 2018 specific plan transformed industrial land into a high-density, transit-focused area. Projects like AVE Santa Clara, Mainline North, and Ellore contributed significantly, alongside 10 multifamily developments citywide. Two of those focused entirely on affordable housing, supported by builders such as SummerHill, Ensemble, Greystar, and USA Properties.

Looking to 2026, officials anticipate a slower pace as the market absorbs recent additions and navigates past financing challenges. Still, ongoing demand signals steady opportunities ahead, reinforcing Santa Clara's role in addressing regional housing needs.

Source: SVBJ

Google's Downtown West Vision

San Jose stands on the cusp of transformation with Google's ambitious Downtown West project near Diridon Station and the SAP Center. Plans call for reshaping an industrial stretch into a vibrant mixed-use district featuring millions of square feet in office space, thousands of homes, ample retail and cultural venues, plus 15 acres of green parks. This development promises to weave together work, living, and leisure in the heart of the city, drawing on nearly a decade of collaboration that began with land acquisitions in 2018.

Recent steps show steady groundwork, including demolitions from 2022 to 2024 that cleared sites like a longstanding hardware store and Patty's Inn. Google has introduced temporary enhancements such as protective coatings on buildings and new gathering spots that already spark community activity. These moves coincide with rising property values in the area, bolstering the local tax base, and a $12.5 million contribution toward broader initiatives. Even amid pauses, the presence fuels economic uplift and attracts fresh tenants to invigorate the neighborhood.

The hold stems from shifts brought by the pandemic, which altered work patterns and led to elevated office vacancies across Silicon Valley, including a 32 percent rate in Downtown San Jose by late 2025. Google views such large-scale efforts as multi-decade endeavors that adapt over time, maintaining dialogue with developers while assessing real estate demands. This measured approach allows for potential refinements, perhaps emphasizing more housing to align with evolving needs.

City leaders express strong confidence in the project's eventual realization, highlighting San Jose's gains so far and the commitment from all sides. Former officials note the global challenges faced but anticipate renewed progress as conditions improve. The Diridon area holds potential for even more square footage in future builds, positioning San Jose as a leader in balanced urban growth.

Source: KQED

San Jose Launches Game On Youth Sports Program Ahead of Epic 2026 Events

San Jose is introducing the Game On youth sports program, designed to inspire thousands of local students and community members. Officials gathered at the Boys & Girls Club of Silicon Valley - Smythe Clubhouse to unveil this initiative, part of the city's SJ26 campaign and backed by the San Jose Sports Authority. From January through June, 50 activations called Game On Moments will roll out at schools and community spots, reaching young people with hands-on sports experiences. Mayor Matt Mahan emphasized turning the year's major events into enduring benefits that extend far past the calendar.

The South Bay hosts Super Bowl LX, three March Madness games, and six World Cup matches between February 8 and July 1, drawing global attention. Former San Jose Earthquakes player Shea Salinas, now a club ambassador, highlighted how preparations for community involvement started with the World Cup announcement. He noted the importance of professional organizations in creating positive change. San Francisco 49ers President Al Guido added that connecting kids with athletes fosters a cycle of inspiration, where pros reflect on their own early influences while guiding the next generation.

To build a lasting legacy, the program focuses on infrastructure like fields, coaches, referees, and leagues to support youth development. Salinas pointed out the need to capitalize on the excitement around soccer and football, ensuring stable environments where kids can grow. This ripple effect aims to instill values that carry forward, with families passing on the passion for sports. Brandi Chastain, founder of Bay FC, introduced goalie Jordan Silkowitz, recently named to the U.S. national team, to show how dedication leads to achievement.

Source: SVBJ

Guitar Wars and The Void Celebrate Grand Opening in Downtown San Jose

San Jose is getting a new boost to its music landscape with the arrival of Guitar Wars and The Void at 447 South First Street in Downtown San Jose. The city is supporting the launch with a ribbon cutting ceremony today, starting at 3 p.m. Councilmember Anthony Tordillos, the San Jose Downtown Association, and owners Carlos Gascon and Josiah Kverno will share remarks. S.J. Sharkie joins as a special guest, bringing energy for families and offering photo opportunities during the event.

Guitar Wars began in 2013 at 4110 Monterey Highway in the Seven Trees neighborhood, where it built a loyal following over 12 years. Now relocating Downtown, the store focuses on musical instruments alongside The Void, a repair shop dedicated to affordable, high-quality service. Formed by a close-knit group of family, friends, musicians, and gear enthusiasts, Guitar Wars fosters a fun, inclusive environment tied to music culture. Its name nods to sci-fi themes and the drive behind every player's setup. The Void addresses needs in instrument maintenance and the broader scene, making sure budget constraints do not limit access to reliable care.

The celebration extends beyond the ceremony with live sets from local bands, a guitar raffle, and displays from area artists. Come February, music lessons launch, along with open mics and various events. The shop plans workshops on maintenance basics, electronics for guitars, and general upkeep to suit beginners and pros alike. This setup creates a central spot for discovering, practicing, and linking up within San Jose's music world.

Downtown San Jose thrives with its arts and festivals, including SoFA, blues, and jazz gatherings, but lacks robust music retail options. Guitar Wars steps in to bridge that, positioning itself amid the action to aid performers and enrich the community.

Photo by Gary Singh

FurCon Downtown San Jose Guide

The first long weekend of the year marks a unique San Jose tradition. If you notice a bunch of furry costumed characters running around Downtown San Jose, then you know FurCon is in town. If you want to increase your chances of seeing these rare creatures, below is the official FurCon Downtown San Jose Guide. 

Some of the places on the list like Fox Tail Fermentation Project and Haberdasher even have specials for FurCon attendees if they are wearing their suits. It's a fun weekend to hang out Downtown!

A Night on the Avenue: Evening Delights in Downtown Willow Glen

San Jose's Willow Glen neighborhood hosts A Night on the Avenue on Saturday, February 5, 2026, from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM along Lincoln Avenue. This free event invites residents and visitors to explore the tree-lined streets filled with sidewalk cafes, boutiques, and easy free parking. Organized by the Willow Glen Business Association, the gathering turns the area into a lively spot for an evening out with friends or family.

Participating merchants offer a range of treats and promotions to enhance the stroll. Live entertainment fills the air at Copita Tequileria y Comida, where Chef Azari presents a special menu. Nearby, Sushi Confidential provides 20 percent off food and beverages, while Aldea Home San Jose serves refreshments. Shoppers find deals like 15 percent off entire purchases at BellaJames, no sales tax plus 10 percent off at Whatnots and Dodads, and free gift bags with qualifying buys at Aldea Home.

Additional highlights include a free brain hack demo and parent tip card pack at Brain Hacks Occupational Therapy, along with 20 percent off party rentals. The event showcases Willow Glen's small-town charm within San Jose, blending diverse dining, unique shopping, and community services in one accessible location.

For full details, visit https://www.willowglen.org/a-night-on-the-avenue.

Asia Live Set to Elevate Dining at Westfield Valley Fair

An expansive new restaurant named Asia Live is preparing to open at Westfield Valley Fair, bringing a wide array of flavors from across the continent to the San Jose area. This two-story venue spans about 13,000 square feet and offers seating for 350 guests, featuring dishes inspired by Southeast Asia, Japan, Korea, and India. The concept builds on the success of its San Francisco predecessor, China Live, expanding the focus to celebrate a broader range of Asian culinary traditions in a marketplace-style setting.

The location at 2855 Stevens Creek Boulevard places Asia Live next to Shake Shack and across from Eataly, in the space once occupied by iChina. This addition enhances the mall's lineup of international eateries, drawing more visitors to explore the shopping and dining hub that serves as a key attraction for San Jose residents and those from surrounding communities. With a bar offering upscale cocktails similar to the original's popular spot, the restaurant aims to create a dynamic environment for meals, gatherings, and evening outings.

Scheduled for a spring 2026 debut, sometime between March and May, Asia Live represents another step in the ongoing growth of high-quality dining options in the region. It complements Westfield Valley Fair's role as a premier destination, where visitors can do more than just shop.

For more information, visit www.westfield.com/valleyfair.

Source: KRON4 (hat tip to usedmedia from Skyscraper City)

Silicon Valley Queer Film Festival Takes Center Stage in San Jose

San Jose hosts the Silicon Valley Queer Film Festival this weekend, drawing attention to compelling queer stories through short films and live performances. The event runs January 16 and 17, offering a platform for LGBTQ+ artists and filmmakers to share their work with the community. Local talent shines brightly, with contributions from Bay Area creators and San Jose State University students, making this a true reflection of the city's creative energy.

Friday's kick-off GAYLA unfolds at the Signia by Hilton in Downtown San Jose from 6:00pm to 10:00pm, setting the tone with celebrations of queer art. Festival pass holders gain access to an exclusive program from 5:00pm to 6:00pm, adding a layer of special engagement for dedicated supporters.

Saturday shifts to AMC Saratoga 14 for a full day of screenings from noon to 10:00pm, divided into five themed blocks that cover love, joy, science fiction, relationships, and deep emotions. Highlights include films such as Coven of the Midnight Sun and Alyssum, alongside drag routines by Ivy Flores and Empress Astara in the later sessions. Co-hosting partners like Qmunity, Silicon Valley Rainbow Rotary, and the Santa Clara Office of LGBTQ+ Affairs bring community focus to each block.

Tickets are available now, with options including $15 per individual block, $50 for a day pass covering all Saturday screenings plus Friday's regular program, or $75 for the full festival pass with exclusive access. For tickets and more details, visit https://fishnetsfilm.org/siliconvalleyqueerfilmfestival/.

Bloom Coming Soon to Downtown San Jose

This second location from the popular Santa Clara spot brings a menu focused on inventive brunch dishes, hearty lunches, and creative cocktails to the heart of the city. Diners can expect options like smoked chicken apple sausage scramble, croissant French toast topped with fresh berries, and avocado toast with unique twists that highlight seasonal ingredients.

The new venue at 225 W Santa Clara Street occupies the space formerly held by Opa!, directly across from the Pressroom, adding to the growing cluster of vibrant eateries in the area. With its cozy interior and outdoor seating, Bloom provides a welcoming atmosphere for morning meetings, weekend gatherings, or casual afternoons. The emphasis on quality ingredients and thoughtful preparation has already drawn locals and visitors alike, contributing to the lively street scene along Santa Clara Street.

This addition strengthens Downtown San Jose's reputation as a destination for diverse dining experiences. Bloom's arrival supports the ongoing revitalization, offering another reason for people to explore the neighborhood's mix of historic charm and modern amenities. Whether starting the day with a craft mimosa or enjoying a midday salad, the eatery invites everyone to savor what DTSJ has to offer.

For more details or to place an online order at their original location, visit www.bloomeatery.com.

Source: Willow Glen Charm

Downtown San Jose Then and Now: 1975 to Today

A collection of photographs from 1975, discovered in 2006 by architect Gerald Greenleaf while working for the San Jose Redevelopment Agency, offers a striking look at Downtown San Jose's evolution. These images, captured during a comprehensive street survey, stand in contrast to current views, with nearly half the scenes transformed beyond recognition and others heavily modified. The comparisons serve as a visual record of urban redevelopment, touching on themes of memory and city identity.

In 1975, Downtown featured wide streets, low-rise structures, and open blocks dotted with parking lots, creating a sparse and exposed landscape under the sun. Fewer trees left sidewalks bare, contributing to a slower, smaller-scale feel with plenty of visible sky. Fast forward to today, and the area boasts increased density through office towers, hotels, cultural spaces, and improved transit options that redefine the skyline and grid.

Greenery has multiplied, with trees now shading walkways and softening the edges of buildings for a more inviting environment. The shift stems largely from 1990s redevelopment efforts that pushed for ambition and vertical growth, turning underused spaces into a modern hub. This change reflects San Jose's ongoing transition from agricultural roots to a regional powerhouse.

These side-by-side views remind residents of what has been gained in vibrancy and lost in openness, preserving stories of the city's layers. Downtown San Jose continues to adapt, blending past elements with new possibilities.

For more details, visit https://www.retrobayarea.com/post/downtown-san-jose-then-and-now-1975-today.

$3 Million Investment Elevates East San Jose's Mexican Heritage Plaza

The School of Arts and Culture at the Mexican Heritage Plaza has secured a $3 million investment to expand La Avenida in East San Jose. Backed by Councilmember Peter Ortiz and the City of San Jose Housing Department, this funding launches the first phase by redeveloping a 28,000-square-foot commercial property directly across from the current facility. The site holds historical importance as the area where César Chávez started his early activism, making the project a meaningful step in preserving local heritage.

This expansion allows the plaza to broaden its cultural offerings, introduce family wellness services through partner Gardner Health Services, and create new economic pathways for the Mayfair neighborhood. Amid concerns over resident displacement along the Alum Rock Avenue corridor, La Avenida aims to stabilize the community by focusing on culture, health, and opportunity. Future phases will add affordable housing and more commercial spaces on the plaza campus.

A press conference to mark this development takes place on Tuesday, January 13, at noon at the Mexican Heritage Plaza. Speakers include Chief Executive Officer Jessica Paz-Cedillos, Councilmember Peter Ortiz, and others, sharing insights on the project's community impact.

For more details, visit https://www.schoolofartsandculture.org/

Two Wheel Tuesday Brings Bike Vibes and Vinyl to Downtown San Jose

Cyclists and music enthusiasts have a standing invitation every Tuesday at Hapa's Creekside in Downtown San Jose. Located at 59 Barack Obama Boulevard near the SAP Center, this weekly gathering encourages people to ride their bikes for a rewarding 2-for-1 deal on beers. The event kicks off with food service at 4 p.m. from Traveler by Chef Lou, offering a range of tasty options to fuel the evening.

As the afternoon transitions to night, the focus shifts to the sounds of vinyl records starting at 5 p.m. Local DJs such as Flipside Lovers, Akro1, Parrasoul SC, and Ren from Sweaterfunk take turns spinning all-vinyl sets that fill the space with eclectic beats.

Two Wheel Tuesday adds to the dynamic energy Downtown by blending community activities with delicious craft beer. For additional information, visit https://www.instagram.com/p/DTa7juMEk3L/.

San Jose Raises Nearly $5 Million for Epic 2026 Activations

San Jose and the San Jose Sports Authority have secured close to $5 million from corporate, public, and philanthropic partners to support a series of community activations throughout Silicon Valley in 2026. This funding arrives just in time for a major lineup of events, including Super Bowl LX, three March Madness games, and six World Cup matches from February 8 to July 1.

The money will finance over 100 watch parties, 13 concerts featuring national acts like Kehlani, and seven drone shows, with more details forthcoming. Most of these experiences come at no cost to residents and visitors, creating inclusive ways to join the excitement without game tickets. Additional support goes toward local youth programs, ensuring the benefits reach younger community members.

Contributions from Silicon Valley giants such as Adobe, eBay, and Google, along with local entities like Visit San Jose and San Jose Mineta International Airport, make this possible. An estimated 500,000 travelers are expected in the Bay Area for these events, generating $1.4 billion in economic impact that supports hotels, restaurants, small businesses, and cultural areas across the city.

Source: SVBJ

Invisible Skies: A Flash Art Spectacle at San Jose City Hall

San Jose is hosting Invisible Skies, a free flash art event set for January 31, 2026, at City Hall on East Santa Clara Street in Downtown San Jose. Umbrella distribution starts at 5:30 PM, with the main activity kicking off at 6:30 PM once the sky darkens. This gathering will turn the plaza into a canvas for communal creativity, open to all ages and designed to last about two hours.

Attendees receive illuminated umbrellas as gifts, using them to form galaxies and celestial patterns across the space. The collective effort creates a living artwork, documented by drones overhead for later digital presentations and media sharing. Participants play a direct role in the display, becoming stars in the night sky formation.

Organized by ETProjects.Foundation alongside the City of San Jose's Office of Economic Development and Cultural Affairs, the event emphasizes community involvement. Wear black clothing without graphics to enhance the visual effect, and avoid flash photography to preserve the drone footage. A photo release form must be signed electronically through registration or brought printed.

The event operates on a first-come, first-served basis with limited spots remaining. Parking is available through nearby options listed at parksj.org.

For registration and full details, visit https://www.eventbrite.com/e/invisible-skies-tickets-1407918806049.

2026 Silicon Valley Map is now available

Silicon Maps, Inc. has just released their 2026 Silicon Maps series. These are high-quality calendar posters highlighting various high tech and biotech companies in our area. They tend to sell out pretty quickly, so if you're interested you can order one right over here.

New Apartments Approved in West San Jose: Boosting Housing with Smart Redevelopment

This project at 1000 South De Anza Boulevard, led by Borello Asset Management, leverages the builder's remedy to transform a underutilized site into vibrant residential space. By qualifying under this provision before the city's housing element was finalized, the development gains flexibility to mix affordable and market-rate units, addressing the pressing need for more homes in our growing city.

The seven-story building will feature 20 percent of its units reserved for low-income households, with the remaining 80 percent at market rates. Amenities include a fitness center, pet spa, outdoor courtyard, and rooftop patio, creating a welcoming community hub. With about 150 parking spaces planned, the project replaces a vacant single-story commercial building that once housed a Carl's Jr. and later a sushi restaurant, turning an empty lot into a productive asset for West San Jose.

The site, long held by the Borello family, sat idle after the pandemic closed the last tenant, prompting a shift toward housing. Now, with the environmental impact report certified and permits approved, the path is clear for construction that could help ease the housing shortage. Whether Borello develops it or sells the entitled property, the outcome promises new opportunities for residents.

Source: SVBJ

Symphony San Jose Presents Hopelessly Romantic this January

Symphony San Jose brings a powerful program of Romantic-era works to the stage with Hopelessly Romantic, scheduled for January 24 and 25, 2026. The concerts take place at the California Theatre on South First Street in Downtown San Jose, a restored venue that adds its own historic charm to live orchestral music. This weekend offers San Jose audiences a chance to experience sweeping melodies and intense emotions from three celebrated composers.

The program opens with Franz Schubert's Overture to Rosamunde, a graceful piece full of elegance that has long been a favorite in concert settings. Guest violinist Geneva Lewis then performs Jean Sibelius's Violin Concerto, known for its soul-stirring melodies that build from a haunting start to a dramatic finish. Lewis brings her renowned artistry and command of the instrument to this demanding work.

Robert Schumann's Symphony No. 4 closes the evening, a deeply personal composition with soaring themes, vivid orchestral textures, and innovative structure. Conductor François López-Ferrer leads the orchestra through this expressive journey that captures the full range of human feeling.

Concert ticket holders can arrive an hour early for the free Music Notes session in the main auditorium. This pre-concert talk provides insights, background details, and guest interviews to enrich the listening experience. Youth 17 and younger can attend at half price when accompanied by an adult, and inexpensive parking is available at the nearby city garage on San Carlos Street.

Tickets range from $35 to $115. For tickets and full details, visit www.symphonysanjose.org or call 408.286.2600.

Tang Bar Expands to San Jose: Sichuan Hot Pot Arrives in Vietnam Town

Tang Bar is coming to 909 Story Road in The Shops at Vietnam Town. This San Francisco-founded restaurant specializes in Sichuan-style Chinese cuisine, focusing on fast-casual hot pot and malatang. Set to welcome guests later in January, the new spot adds to our city's diverse food scene, drawing from a brand already established in San Francisco, San Mateo, Rancho Cucamonga, and Bellevue, Washington.

The 1,600-square-foot space, complete with a patio, represents an $800,000 investment and plans to employ 40 to 50 people with competitive compensation, including benefits like medical coverage, tuition reimbursement, and retirement contributions. Tang Bar stands out by sourcing produce from nearby Gilroy farms and supporting local vendors, enhancing the community's economic ties while delivering fresh ingredients.

Diners can look forward to a do-it-yourself hot pot experience, selecting meats, vegetables, seafood, and broths, or opting for malatang, a numbing spicy hot dish prepared in the kitchen and served in a large bowl. Positioned near Grand Century Mall and other Asian eateries, including Vietnamese favorites and fellow hot pot spot Long Men Bay, Tang Bar fits seamlessly into this vibrant area, promising flavorful meals that celebrate cultural fusion.

As competition grows in the fast-casual hot pot market, Tang Bar's arrival underscores San Jose's appeal as a hub for diverse eateries, catering to a large population with tastes for bold, authentic flavors.

Source: SVBJ

First Fridays: A Fresh Start to 2026 at the San Jose Museum of Art

San Jose invites art enthusiasts to begin the new year with an evening of inspiration at the San Jose Museum of Art's First Fridays event on January 2, 2026, from 6 to 9 pm. This monthly gathering opens the galleries for free, allowing visitors to wander through current exhibitions that showcase diverse creative voices. Highlights include Pao Houa Her: The Imaginative Landscape, Young Bay Mud, and ektor garcia: loose ends, each offering unique perspectives on culture and innovation.

Located in Downtown San Jose, the museum transforms into a welcoming space for the community after hours. Guests can enjoy late-night access to El Cafecito by Mezcal Restaurant for light bites and a cash bar, adding a relaxed social element to the night. The Museum Store stays open late too, perfect for picking up local artisan goods, with members receiving discounts to make the experience even more rewarding.

Plan ahead by registering for a fast check-in. Get your $0 tickets over here: https://52102.blackbaudhosting.com/52102/tickets?tab=2&txobjid=82ee37c6-b090-4981-8669-476f8728bf57

San Jose's Unforgettable 2026: Global Events and Citywide Celebrations Ahead

Happy New Year! 🎆

2026 will stand out as a landmark year for San Jose with two of the world's biggest sporting events right in the South Bay at Levi's Stadium. Super Bowl LX arrives in February, drawing massive crowds to the region. San Jose will host watch parties, concerts, drone shows, and over 100 fan experiences across the city, turning Downtown into a hub of excitement and bringing an economic lift to local businesses, hotels, and restaurants.

Summer brings the FIFA World Cup 2026, with Levi's Stadium hosting multiple matches full of international flair. Fans from around the globe will flood the area, and San Jose hosts fan fests, cultural activations, and events that highlight the city's diversity. Easy access via San Jose Mineta International Airport makes San Jose a prime base for visitors, while residents enjoy the vibrant atmosphere spilling into neighborhoods and venues.

Beyond the stadium spotlight, San Jose's cultural scene will thrive with favorites like San Jose Jazz Summer Fest delivering top performances in Plaza de César Chávez. New housing projects will move forward, adding modern apartments and townhomes to welcome more residents to growing districts. Tech innovations and business expansions keep the momentum strong, creating jobs and opportunities.

This combination of world-class events and steady progress on local projects will position San Jose as a premier destination. From game days to festival nights, 2026 offers countless reasons to take pride in being a San Josean.