3rd Annual San Jose Cinco de Mayo Cultural Parade and Festival Will Bring Color and Community to the Alum Rock Neighborhood

The third annual Cinco de Mayo Cultural Parade and Festival will transform streets and parkland in the Alum Rock neighborhood into a vibrant celebration of Mexican heritage and local pride this Sunday, May 3rd. The day begins with a parade at 10 a.m. and continues with a full afternoon of festivities that highlight the city’s rich cultural tapestry.

The parade will start at the corner of Alum Rock and King, then travel along King Road toward the 680 freeway underpass. Marchers, dancers, and classic lowriders will fill the route, creating a moving spectacle that draws neighbors and visitors alike into the heart of East San Jose. By noon the energy shifts to Emma Prusch Park at King and Story, where the festival runs until 5 p.m.

Live performances, traditional folklorico dances, and a showcase of customized lowriders will anchor the afternoon program. Organizers have promised a full lineup of cultural acts that honor history while inviting everyone to join the fun.

Ace Pickleball Club Opens Large Indoor Facility in San Jose

San Jose pickleball enthusiasts have a lot to be excited about with Ace Pickleball Club preparing to open a new expansive indoor facility. The 31,000-square-foot venue at 5502 Monterey Road will feature 11 courts and create 30 jobs when it launches between July and September.

Franchisee Bobby Singh selected the former Walmart space for its ideal spot next to City Sports and Altitude Trampoline Park. This grouping strengthened the area's reputation as a hub for experiential fitness that kept residents active and engaged.

The club operates on an open-play membership model. Players pay one monthly fee for unlimited access and benefited from video cameras that record highlight reels automatically. Sessions are organized by skill level so members simply showed up and join the action.

This development arrives right as pickleball maintains its position as the fastest-growing sport in the country. As a sidenote, new pickleball courts have also been added to Guadalupe River Park in Downtown San Jose.

Source: SVBJ

Game Plan for Opportunity: CEO San Jose Opens Its Doors for Fair Chance Month

On April 30 the Center for Employment Opportunities San Jose will host an Open House themed “Game Plan for Opportunity” to mark Fair Chance Month and demonstrate how targeted programs clear paths for justice-impacted residents to build stable careers.

The evening at 521 Parrott Street runs from 4:30 to 7:00 PM and features facility tours that let visitors see training rooms in action. Program participants and alumni will share personal accounts of moving from incarceration through life-skills development and transitional employment into full-time positions. Local employers and partners will join discussions on the practical benefits of fair-chance hiring practices.

CEO operates a model proven across 30 cities in 12 states. Daily-pay transitional jobs provide immediate structure and income while job coaching and advanced training prepare individuals for roles in high-demand fields. San Jose’s location benefits from this framework tailored to the area’s dynamic job market, delivering measurable gains in employment retention and community stability.

Plan to attend if your work or interests align with building stronger economic pathways. The open format encourages direct conversations that often spark new collaborations right on the spot.

For additional information, visit ceoworks.org.

San Pedro Square Market Transforms into World Cup Central for San Jose This Summer

San Pedro Square Market will transform into the ultimate destination for soccer fans when it hosts live broadcasts of all 104 FIFA World Cup matches. Soccer Celebration brings a full month of excitement to Downtown San Jose from June 11 through July 19, complete with interactive fan zones, creative food and drink specials, and engaging activities the whole family can enjoy.

Downtown San Jose will come alive with the world's top teams competing on massive screens while fans mingle in the heart of the city. This activation expands on the massive turnouts from recent Super Bowl and March Madness events, setting the stage for what could become the largest crowds yet at the square.

Forecasts point to roughly $555 million in economic activity along with around 260,000 visitors streaming into the region. These figures show how events like this strengthen San Jose's growing reputation for memorable urban experiences.

The entertainment zone designation allows fans to savor the atmosphere with outdoor beverage service in approved areas. Local businesses will seize the moment to deliver standout activations that draw people in and keep the energy high.

Make plans now to join the festivities and see for yourself how Downtown San Jose pulses as the heart of World Cup celebrations in the Bay Area.

Source: SVBJ

San Jose Breaks Ground on First Type 1A Fire-Resistant ADU

Builtech Construction broke ground on an 850-square-foot ADU in San Jose that set a new benchmark for residential fire safety across California. This project became the first in the city built to Type 1A standards, the highest fire-resistance classification available under state building codes, through advanced Insulated Concrete Form technology.

The ICF system stacked lightweight foam blocks like oversized building blocks before crews inserted rebar and poured concrete to create a solid non-combustible core. The resulting walls delivered exceptional protection against fire spread while adding seismic strength, soundproofing, pest resistance, and energy efficiency far beyond traditional wood-frame construction.

The build came together at roughly $350,000, matching costs for conventional methods in the area. Additional features such as fire-resistant windows, a metal roof structure, and fire-rated vents completed the resilient design ready for today’s denser neighborhoods.

ADUs are a key avenue for growing the San Jose housing supply and lowering costs. Any technological advances here will have an amplified impact on our city.

Evolution Night Club Brings New Nightlife Energy to Downtown San Jose

Downtown San Jose gained another exciting nightlife destination as Evolution Night Club prepared to open inside the historic Lion Building. The popular venue relocated from Sunnyvale to 97 S. Second Street and signed a 10-year lease for 3,500 square feet of ground-floor space.

The owners, originally from San Jose, selected this corner location for its strong visibility and the parking lot directly across the street. They worked on tenant improvements that included booth seating along the windows, a full bar, and a dedicated dance floor so the club could welcome guests later this year.

This move filled a vacant space in a historic building constructed in 1907. With the Sunnyvale location closed due to redevelopment, Evolution Night Club now focused entirely on delivering a fresh experience right in the center of San Jose.

There is no ETA on the grand opening, but hopefully it will open in time to take advantage of the World Cup crowds.

Source: SVBJ

Throne Smart Restroom in Arena Green West Near SAP Center

San Jose installed a high-tech public restroom that raised the standard for convenience at Arena Green West. The Throne unit arrived in Guadalupe River Park directly across from SAP Center and delivered a clean, efficient experience for park visitors and event crowds.

The solar-powered, fully self-contained design featured a toilet, urinal, sink, and baby-changing table inside pleasant plant-themed surroundings. Access opened instantly through a QR code, text message, mobile app, or simple entry card. A friendly voice in English and Spanish offered a warm welcome while soft music played during each stay.

Smart sensors monitored the space and a ten-minute limit with gentle reminders kept everything fresh and ready for the next user. This six-month pilot program funded by the Guadalupe River Park Conservancy tested an innovative answer to longstanding public restroom challenges.

The addition made time spent along the Guadalupe River and near SAP Center far more comfortable for families, fans, and daily visitors alike. Hopefully the pilot will go well and we'll see more of these throughout Downtown public spaces.

Source: The Mercury News

Community Steps Up in San Jose for PanCAN PurpleStride Walk to End Pancreatic Cancer

San Jose residents will join hundreds of supporters across the Bay Area this Saturday as PanCAN PurpleStride returns with powerful events in our city and Santa Clara. At Almaden Lake Park, participants will walk to raise funds and awareness for pancreatic cancer, one of the most challenging diseases facing families today. The family-friendly gathering will feature personal stories, remembrance moments, and a shared commitment to better outcomes for patients.

The Silicon Valley event opens at 9am with an opening ceremony at 10am, followed by the walk starting at 10:30am. Special guest survivor Amber Woods will inspire attendees at the San Jose location while teams form to honor loved ones and advocate for research advances. Almaden Lake Park at 15780 Almaden Expressway provides a scenic and accessible setting right in our community.

Pancreatic cancer ranks as the third leading cause of cancer deaths in the United States and heads toward second place. Most cases go undetected until late stages because symptoms often resemble other conditions, leaving the five-year survival rate below twenty percent. Events like PurpleStride focus on early detection strategies and improved treatments that could change these statistics for the better.

The Pancreatic Cancer Action Network leads efforts to empower patients, fund pioneering research, and deliver vital services to those affected. PurpleStride serves as the organization's largest annual fundraiser, channeling proceeds directly into these life-saving initiatives while building a nationwide movement of hope and action.

For more information about the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network and its urgent mission to save lives, visit pancan.org or follow PanCAN on X, Instagram, and Facebook.

Arena Green Park Receives Major Makeover Next to SAP Center

Arena Green Park stepped up its role in Downtown San Jose after receiving a targeted refresh right beside SAP Center. The city directed $1.1 million into the project while the San Jose Sharks contributed $200,000 to help activate this key green space and strengthen connections across downtown neighborhoods.

Crews removed the abandoned carousel to create a versatile new event space and converted the tennis court into modern pickleball and multipurpose courts. They added upgraded lighting along the trails, improved pathways, and completed a thorough cleanup that drew more foot traffic and daily activity to the area.

Special accent lighting around the palm trees will glow teal whenever the Sharks score at the nearby Shark Tank. The detail turned the park into a natural extension of game nights and gave fans an even better experience on their way to and from events.

These upgrades formed part of a broader effort to link different sections of Downtown San Jose and encourage everyone to linger longer. Head over soon to see how the renewed park enhances the entire Downtown experience.

Source: SVBJ

Tesla Expands Operations with New Prep and Delivery Hub in North San Jose

Happy Earth Day! Tesla has secured a large industrial facility in North San Jose to handle vehicle preparation and customer deliveries more efficiently. The electric vehicle maker leased the 107,700-square-foot building at 2256 Junction Avenue, a site owned by Prologis that will soon support hundreds of cars at once.

Planning documents outline a setup with nearly 920 vehicle storage spaces plus 117 stalls reserved for employees, customers, and visitors. The hub will manage standard servicing and repairs to ready cars for handoff, including software updates, tire replacement and balancing, and bolt-on part swaps. Buyers must book appointments in advance to collect their new vehicles. Tesla also has the option to include a showroom and offices at the site.

The project marks another step in Tesla’s growing Bay Area presence and brings convenient infrastructure closer to local owners. North San Jose continues to attract major industrial and tech tenants, and this addition fits neatly into the area’s role as a logistics and innovation corridor.

Residents who follow the shift toward electric transportation will see practical benefits as more delivery points reduce wait times and travel for new owners. The facility underscores North San Jose’s appeal as a strategic location for companies shaping the future of mobility.

Source: The Mercury News

San Jose Lands the WeAreDevelopers World Congress North America

Thousands of developers from across the globe will converge on the San Jose McEnery Convention Center in late September 2026 for the inaugural WeAreDevelopers World Congress North America. The three-day gathering from September 23 to 25 will draw approximately 10,000 attendees and launch this major technology event on American soil while establishing San Jose as the permanent North American home for the annual congress.

The new partnership with WeAreDevelopers selected San Jose after reviewing several major U.S. cities. The choice rested on the city’s foundational role in the technology revolution, its concentrated engineering talent, and its established cluster of companies, startups, and universities. Organizers intend the event to bridge European developer communities with Silicon Valley’s innovation ecosystem through sustained collaboration rather than a one-off appearance.

Future editions of the World Congress will integrate closely with San Jose’s local tech scene. Attendees will tap directly into the atmosphere where modern computing originated and where bold advancements continue scaling rapidly. The arrangement will elevate the city’s profile as a global crossroads for those who design and deploy tomorrow’s technology.

Professionals eager to exchange ideas with top minds from both sides of the Atlantic will discover exceptional opportunities right here. San Jose will keep advancing as the destination where the world’s most ambitious developers gather to shape what comes next.

Source: SVBJ

Sakura Market Brings Japanese Flavors and Convenience to Downtown San Jose

Downtown San Jose residents and San Jose State University students will soon gain a vibrant new destination for groceries and Japanese specialties. Sakura Market has started preparing its space along The Paseo de San Antonio between South Market Street and South First Street, right next to the Spartan Village housing tower. The former Muji location which closed in 2020 will transform into a multifaceted spot that blends everyday shopping with dining experiences.

Osaka Marketplace, the operator behind locations in Fremont and Foster City, envisions more than a standard mini-mart. The store will include a curated sushi buffet, an interactive instant ramen station, a Japanese sake and beer bar, and a dedicated matcha tea shop. These elements create a lively hub where people can grab fresh ingredients, enjoy a quick meal, or relax with a drink.

The addition fills a noticeable gap in downtown grocery options that has existed since a small-format Safeway closed on South Second Street in 2019. While Whole Foods Market and Grocery Outlet sit on the edges of the area, Sakura Market places convenient access directly in the heart of the action. Local real estate professionals have pointed out that retail additions like this strengthen the city and deliver a smart mix of grocery, restaurant, and retail offerings.

Hiring signs already appear at the site as the team seeks cashiers, stockers, sushi preparers, bartenders, and other roles with wages from $18.45 to $21 an hour. The project reflects a broader trend of Asian-themed stores expanding across the Bay Area, bringing fresh energy and practical choices to neighborhoods that value both convenience and cultural flavors.

Source: The Mercury News

Monterey Corridor Safety Initiative Signals Stronger Future for San Jose Commerce

The Monterey Corridor Business Association launched a district-wide safety initiative that stretches from Alma Avenue to Capitol Expressway. The coordinated plan covers more than 1,500 businesses and focuses on practical steps to boost visibility, back law enforcement and code enforcement operations, and raise overall conditions along this active commercial stretch.

Through the business improvement district model, property owners and operators now pool resources to address shared priorities in partnership with the City of San Jose. This collective approach moves beyond single storefront efforts and targets long-term improvements that support both daily commerce and community interaction.

Anyone who travels the corridor will notice the emphasis on enhanced lighting, signage, and coordination tactics designed to create clearer, more stable surroundings. The strategy also reinforces ongoing maintenance and enforcement work that promises sustained progress rather than temporary fixes.

“This initiative reflects what’s possible when a business community organizes and invests in its own future,” said Shyam “Sean” Panchal, President of the Monterey Corridor Business Association. “By aligning resources and working in coordination with the City, we are creating a safer, more stable, and more vibrant environment for businesses, employees, and the broader community.”

The move positions San Jose to strengthen one of its key economic arteries through local leadership and targeted investment. Residents and visitors alike stand to gain from cleaner, more inviting passages that encourage greater foot traffic and lasting vitality across the corridor.

Below is a photo of "Scooby," the first security camera deployed as part of the new initiative.

Tai Er Sichuan Cuisine Opens at Valley Fair Bringing Signature Wok Magic to Silicon Valley

Food lovers throughout the South Bay eagerly anticipate the grand opening of Tai Er Sichuan Cuisine at Westfield Valley Fair in Santa Clara. This marks the brand's second Bay Area location following its successful debut in San Mateo, and it promises to elevate the already thriving dining options right in the backyard of San Jose.

Since launching in 2015, Tai Er has built a global reputation with over 500 locations by obsessing over details like its hallmark 23-day house-fermented sauerkraut fish. The new Valley Fair outpost will deliver that same commitment to bold, nuanced flavors in a modern setting designed for sharing.

The spacious restaurant features an open kitchen where skilled chefs execute high-heat wok dishes that capture authentic smokiness and aroma. Standouts on the expanded menu include location-exclusive creations such as lime-glazed sweet and sour shrimp and truffle vegetarian fried rice with mushrooms and seasonal vegetables. Diners will also savor wok-seared black pepper beef, house special beef fried rice, fresh appetizers, and desserts like fried mochi cubes served with ice cream.

The grand opening is currently slated for the weekend of May 1st. I'm planning to do a full review around mid-May.

Crewners Barber Shop Finds New Life in Willow Glen

Willow Glen welcomed a refreshed Crewners Barber Shop when it opened its new doors at 1393 Lincoln Avenue on February 17. Owner Dan Dixon designed the 790-square-foot space with room to grow, beginning with two chairs and preparing to expand to four while adding barbers and services such as hair washing.

Customers have responded with enthusiasm. The shop now serves a younger demographic that includes families and remote tech workers who prefer a more relaxed, pampering experience over rushed appointments. You can even enjoy a locally-made craft energy drink called Bad Mermaid during your appointment (the company has the same ownership as Crewners).

Crewners carries a resilient San Jose story. Founded in 2011 as the first tenant in San Pedro Square, the business later operated in several Downtown San Jose locations and Japantown before reopening in Willow Glen as a full brick-and-mortar shop once again.

This new chapter strengthens Willow Glen’s reputation as a place where independent local businesses can thrive and build lasting connections with the community. San Jose residents who stop by will discover exactly the kind of neighborhood spot that keeps the city feeling personal and full of character.

Source: SVBJ

San Jose Will Come Together for the Great American Litter Pick-Up in Downtown San Jose

On April 18 from 9 to 11 AM, community members will gather at Arena Green West on North Autumn Street for the Great American Litter Pick-Up. They will focus their efforts along the Guadalupe River Trail and Arena Green, pulling litter from these scenic Downtown San Jose spots to celebrate Earth Day and keep the areas inviting.

The collaboration with the City of San José’s BeautifySJ program means all gloves, bags, and tools will be provided on site. Attendees will simply arrive prepared to contribute their energy and time toward immediate improvements in local parks and trails.

These clean-up initiatives will build stronger neighborhoods and demonstrate the power of shared stewardship. When residents actively care for the Guadalupe River Trail and surrounding green spaces, Downtown San Jose will become even more appealing for daily strolls, family outings, and community events. The city will advance toward its potential as a truly outstanding place to live through consistent, hands-on involvement.

Make plans now to join in the fun and impact on Saturday, April 18. Your participation will help shape a cleaner, prouder San Jose.

San Jose Streets Come Alive During Viva CalleSJ Adventures

San Jose residents and visitors alike discover new sides of San Jose when Viva CalleSJ takes over. This free program will close select streets to vehicles and open them wide for walking, biking, skating, and rolling through the heart of the Eastside.

Routes wind from Mexican Heritage Plaza out to Alum Rock Village and link Cimarron Park with Fernish Park, where explorers encounter side quests filled with local spots, neighborly chats, and festive energy that turns pavement into shared public space.

Over the past decade Viva CalleSJ has grown into a cherished tradition, drawing thousands together to celebrate movement and connection while strengthening community bonds across San Jose. With the next event arriving soon on April 19, now stands as the ideal moment to join in. Lace up those sneakers, dust off the bicycle, or bring the whole family to experience San Jose at its most welcoming and dynamic.

For more information, head over here.

BILT rewards card and San Jose discounts

Happy tax day everyone! Today will be a slightly different kind of post. I'm a big fan of leveraging credit cards to get as much free stuff as possible and maximizing discounts on every purchase I make. I've stayed at fancy hotels for free countless times and flown all around the world using points. It's a bit of a side-passion of mine, perhaps an obsession. Currently I have an Amex Platinum (Personal & Business), Amex Gold, Chase Sapphire Reserve, Atmos Summit, Bonvoy Brilliant, and many others. 

I've been testing out a card by a newer company called Bilt for the last several months. They are the first (and only) card company where you can earn points on your rent or mortgage payments. That was my main use case for getting their premium card along with the generous sign on bonus, but it's a pretty awesome card in general for everything (except for taxes ironically).

Points can be converted to various hotel programs and 15+ airline partners, including Alaska Airlines... my go to at SJC. Southwest is also a partner as well as United, JAL, British Airways, Etihad, TAP Air Portugal, United, Cathay Pacific. and Emirates. Because of the flexibility, the points are worth roughly 2 cents each. You also get 4% back in "Bilt Cash" on purchases which you can exchange for more points, gift cards, etc. I value these at about 50 cents on the collar, so call it about 2 cents per dollar you spend.

So in essence, between the 1x points and 4% Bilt Cash, the Bilt Blue Card with no annual fee gives you 4% back on ALL purchases you make (except for taxes) and you can earn points on you rent or mortgage. The $99/year Bilt Obsidian also gets you 8% off Dining OR Grocery, and 6% off all travel purchases. Lastly, the $499/year Bilt Palladium gives you 6% off everything.  You can only pick one of the three, I went with the Palladium since it's the absolute best card you can get for non-category spend. The AMEX Platinum is still the best for flights, AMEX Gold is the best for restaurants, Chase Sapphire Reserve is the best for Hotels. For everything else, this is the new king of the hill. 

As an added bonus, you get additional points with Lyft, Walgreens, and several other partners including many San Jose restaurants. These include:

• Downtown - San Pedro Social, District, Farmers Union, Serious Dumpling, and Teske's Germania
• Santana Row - LB Steak, Seft Bank, El Jardin, Momosan, Zazil Cocina, Meso, and Suspiro
• Willow Glen - John's, Stacks, Toast, Casa Villa, and Mimosas
• Japantown SJ - Hukilau and Spread
• Tons of others in East San Jose, Almaden (La Foret), Evergreen, etc.

There are also discounts on fitness classes and parking garages as well as other perks such as comedy club and dining experiences. It's a pretty fun and interesting ecosystem, not at all what I expected from a credit card company.

Customer service has been hit or miss for me since they have been completely slammed after rolling out these three new cards. That is an area where AMEX is way stronger today, but it's a small price to pay for better discounts and rewards on purchases.

The Bilt Palladium has become my favorite credit card, but you can't go wrong with any of the three they offer today. The Bilt Blue is probably the best no-fee card today. The Obsidian is arguably on par with the AMEX Gold for dining, but with a much lower annual fee. The Palladium is ideal for people that know how to milk the points system and/or want to consolidate a bunch of premium cards into one.

To learn more or pick a card, click here!

Earth Day Celebration Brings Family Fun and Coyote Valley Insights to Santana Row

Santana Row will team up with the Open Space Authority for a free Earth Day celebration on Sunday, April 19, 2026. The event will run from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. and fill the afternoon with engaging activities at this favorite San Jose destination.

Lawn games will keep participants active while creative crafts spark fun for all ages. Children can enjoy complimentary face painting as nature-themed music adds to the vibrant atmosphere.

A special display will showcase plans for habitat restoration, public access, and sustainable agriculture in Coyote Valley. Team members from the Coyote Valley Conservation Areas Master Plan will remain available to explain the designs and answer questions.

New Heights for Senior Living in Downtown San Jose

Planners approved the transformation of a key site at 19 North 2nd Street into a 22-story mixed-use tower. The plans incorporated the historic facade of the Realty Building and called for 220 affordable studio apartments aimed at residents aged 55 and older, placed above nearly 18,643 square feet of commercial space.

The transit-oriented setup positioned the tower ideally for easy access to light rail and bus lines. Future residents will navigate the city without needing on-site parking, thanks to basement bicycle parking and the prime location in central Downtown San Jose. Rooftop common areas will provide spots for connection and breathtaking skyline vistas.

Seniors will gain an opportunity to thrive in the vibrant core of the city, close to parks, shops, and cultural spots. Ground-floor commercial activity will bring new energy to this part of Downtown, filling another gap on a key corner and creating benefits that ripple out to the entire community.

Source: Sequoia and Tsovo Massena, hat tip to Wendy Warren for sending this in!

Beethoven’s Pastorale Brings Spring to Life at Symphony San Jose

San Jose music lovers will discover a fresh celebration of nature and renewal when Symphony San Jose presents Beethoven’s Pastorale on May 9 and 10, 2026. The program gathers three distinctive works that blend tradition with innovation to create an evening filled with color and emotion.

Dvořák’s Carnival Overture will launch the concert with its lively festival spirit and sense of joyful arrival. Mason Bates’ Philharmonia Fantastique will then unfold as a concerto for orchestra paired with an animated film, where a magical Sprite leads audiences on an inventive exploration inside the instruments themselves. Beethoven’s Symphony No. 6 will close the night, guiding listeners through serene countryside scenes alive with bird calls, a gently babbling brook, and a dramatic thunderstorm.

Ticket holders can enhance their evening by arriving early for Music Notes, the free pre-concert discussion that shares fun facts and insights one hour before showtime. The May 10 performance will also include a special Mother’s Day recognition from the orchestra.

Tickets range from $24 to $121 and can be purchased over here.

San Jose Day Returns with Creative Events Across the City

San Jose will honor its dynamic community spirit with the 8th Annual San Jose Day celebration running through April 12. The multi-day series will showcase local art, music, fashion, and culture at venues across the city.

On Saturday the centerpiece festival will unfold at Creekside Social at 50 Barack Obama Blvd. from 10 AM to 3 PM. It'll feature live music, a lowrider showcases, over 70 vendors, and live art demonstrations.

Sunday will provide a relaxed close with the Sunday Social at Clandestine Brewing. These events will deliver memorable experiences and deepen appreciation for all that makes San Jose thrive. You can see the full lineup over here.

Downtown San Jose Welcomes Foodies Fandom Night Market to Plaza de Cesar Chavez

Plaza de Cesar Chavez in Downtown San Jose stands will host an exciting celebration of street food culture this weekend. The Foodies Fandom Night Market will arrive April 10 through 12 in conjunction with FandomCon weekend. Local vendors will fill the space with global street eats, tempting desserts, artisan booths, and unique activations that promise something for every palate.

Free admission will open the doors wide for food enthusiasts to sample a diverse array of flavors. Attendees will wander past stalls showcasing multicultural dishes and innovative creations while discovering giveaways and a silent disco.

To make the most of the three days, plan for hours running from 3PM to 10PM on Friday and 1PM to 10PM on Saturday and Sunday. Bring an appetite and comfortable shoes to fully embrace the experience.

For more info, head over here.

The Price Is Right Live Brings Iconic Game Show Thrills to San Jose Civic

The Price Is Right Live comes to the San Jose Civic on Friday, October 9 at 8 PM with its high-energy stage production and all the classic elements fans know and love.

You will step right into the nostalgic world of the original sets featuring The Big Wheel, Plinko, Cliffhangers, and the Showcase. A celebrity host will keep the laughs flowing while randomly selected contestants compete for big prizes that range from household appliances and dream vacations to electronics and even a brand-new car.

Lucky audience members can score prizes without ever leaving their seats. The touring show has played to packed houses for more than twenty years and has awarded over fifteen million dollars in cash and prizes across the country.

San Jose now joins the fun with this special stop that turns television memories into an interactive night out right in the city.

Tickets will go on sale Friday, April 10 @ 6 AM via Ticketmaster.

San Jose Sparks Everyday Creativity with WeCreate408 This April

The City of San José Office of Cultural Affairs launched WeCreate408, a month-long creative challenge that invites everyone to participate through simple weekly prompts.

Participants will photograph a favorite neighborhood spot, sketch a meal that brings back memories, or capture small details from daily routines. All contributions will appear together on a digital public art wall where hundreds of responses from across the city will showcase unique perspectives on life in San Jose.

This year organizers collaborated with more local artists than ever before. The campaign artwork came from several San Jose creators working together, and short video features highlight local talent including Los Panaderos, the energetic Mexican folk band known for mixing music with badminton.

Community art days at spots like Voyager Coffee and the Children’s Discovery Museum will offer fun in-person ways to participate. Classroom projects guided by local artist Julie Cardenas have also brought the challenge into schools.

For more information and to participate, head over here.

Santana Row Hosts Vibrant Local Artist Street Fair This Weekend

Makers Market will host its Local Artist Street Fair on Saturday, April 11 from 11am to 6pm, filling Santana Row with unique finds from over sixty-five talented makers.

You will browse handmade jewelry, pottery, fragrances, candles, crochet, apparel, leather goods, and many other special creations while live music by local musician Mike Annuzzi plays in the background. The kid- and pet-friendly atmosphere paired with the sip-and-stroll format lets you pair shopping with tasty food and drinks from the surrounding restaurants and bars.

Right beside the fair at 378 Santana Row, the Makers Market store will open its doors to even more unique American-made products. An outdoor DIY candle bar will give you the chance to craft your own non-toxic soy and beeswax candle on the spot.

Head over to Santana Row and support the local artists who help make our city such a dynamic place to explore and enjoy!

4/10/26 UPDATE: Unfortunately due to weather, this event has been cancelled. The brick-and-mortar Maker Market will still be open on Saturday from 10am-9pm. The next Local Artist Street Fair will be on Saturday, May 9 and Sunday, May 10 for Mother's Day weekend.

Google Deepens Commitment to San Jose with New Meadow Point Research Campus in Alviso

Google has outlined a major research and development hub in the Alviso district. This project will expand the company's footprint and signal strong ongoing investment in the Bay Area's largest city.

At the site near 5087 Disk Drive, crews will demolish an existing warehouse to make way for one to three new buildings totaling up to 482,800 square feet. Google has also arranged for a dedicated 250-megawatt electricity facility with PG&E to power the lab spaces effectively. The company has already invested $452 million in acquiring ten buildings in the surrounding area to form the Meadow Point campus.

These changes will attract advanced research teams and create high-quality jobs that will bolster North San Jose as a key employment center. Google has maintained other nearby locations on West Tasman Drive and Brokaw Road, and this development has built seamlessly on that foundation.

Even as the company has paused its Downtown West mixed-use project near the SAP Center and Diridon station in Downtown San Jose, this Alviso initiative has demonstrated continued dedication.

Source: The Mercury News

Easter Sunday Delivers Festive Experiences Across San Jose

Easter Sunday delivers festive experiences that bring families and friends together across San Jose.

Guests can savor a memorable brunch at the Hayes Mansion where an exclusive menu includes cracked crab legs, a prime rib carving station, and chef-selected decadent desserts. Little ones will hunt for eggs on the lawn in the historic surroundings.

Downtown San Jose will host the Soulful Sunday Easter Brunch at Jackie's Place with two sessions offering all-you-can-enjoy buffet items like fried chicken, shrimp and grits, and candied yams accompanied by bottomless mimosas and R&B sounds from a DJ.

Local churches such as VIVE San Jose will open their doors for services followed by a free post-service carnival featuring a petting zoo, bounce houses, and food trucks that extend the celebration into the afternoon.

These events highlight how San Jose transforms Easter Day into a vibrant celebration of community and tradition.

For tickets and more information:

• Hayes Mansion Easter Brunch & Egg Hunt: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/2026-easter-brunch-at-the-hayes-mansion-tickets-1978479220608
• Soulful Sunday Easter Brunch at Jackie's Place: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/soulful-sunday-easter-brunch-2026-tickets-1985618515431
• VIVE San Jose Easter Services & Carnival: https://www.vivechurch.org/easter-san-jose

San Jose Prepares to Launch a World-Class Sports and Entertainment District in Downtown

San Jose locals have long watched their city build momentum, and recent planning efforts will deliver an exciting transformation. City officials have commissioned studies that will shape a dynamic sports and entertainment district in Downtown San Jose. These plans will weave together mixed-use spaces, upgraded public areas, and better linkages among landmarks like the SAP Center and major transit points.

Recent agreements with the San Jose Sharks have already paved the way for major arena renovations extending through 2051. Those commitments will spark detailed work on a future arena location alongside a full district filled with dining, hotels, and entertainment options. City leaders examined proven successes in Sacramento, Columbus, and Atlanta, where integrated venues have generated billions while keeping the energy high every day.

Analyses from Deloitte showed that dedicated city backing and streamlined processes will create zones appealing to fans and everyday visitors alike. San Jose will build on assets such as Diridon Station to develop walkable neighborhoods echoing the proven model at Santana Row. The district will bring steady activity to Downtown throughout the entire year.

At the same time, expansions at the San Jose McEnery Convention Center will push economic activity from conventions toward $182 million per year and back more than 1,000 positions. Planners will consider additional exhibition space and a new headquarters hotel near the Almaden site recently acquired by the city (former Boston Properties office development site). This approach will allow Downtown San Jose to land bigger events and integrate them smoothly with the surrounding entertainment hub.

Ongoing reviews through 2026 will examine financing options, land planning, and connections along the Guadalupe River and Highway 87. San Jose has assembled the core pieces and will now link them into a destination that residents like you and visitors will celebrate daily as the city rises toward its full potential.

Source: SVBJ

Downtown San Jose Celebrates Art, Music, and Culture at First Fridays ArtWalk SJ

Downtown San Jose will come alive with artistic possibility tonight as the First Fridays ArtWalk SJ unfolds across the SoFA District and surrounding neighborhoods. Between 5 and 9 pm, galleries and venues will open their doors wide for an evening of free exploration and live performances.

You will step into Anno Domini to experience Céline Lyaudet's AD SOMNIA exhibition, where the French artist translates lucid dreams and ancient incubation rites into paintings and sculptural fetishes that evoke shamanic journeys and spirit vessels. Close by at KALEID Gallery, Xuan My Ho's detailed mosaics will bridge real and imagined worlds while the Art for Vietnam show channels sales proceeds toward VNHelp's community projects in Vietnam.

MACLA will present its annual Latinx Art Now exhibition featuring diverse works from over thirty artists. At the California Theatre Opera San José will deliver outdoor arias at 5:30 pm, an indoor performance at 7 pm, free popcorn and lemonade, plus a scavenger hunt. San Jose Jazz will fill the air with sets from emerging talents and a special jam session featuring ska saxophonist David Hillyard.

The walk will extend into the Historic District for cultural storytelling at Chopsticks Alley Gallery and the community art auction preview at Works San Jose. In the Martha Gardens District galleries will showcase typewriter engravings, wooden memento mori installations, and traditional Peruvian chullos.

There is free street parking and 90 minutes of complimentary garage parking available at S. 2nd and San Carlos and the event is kid-friendly.

"Santos" Will Bring a Modern Mexican Steakhouse to San Pedro Square

San Pedro Square in Downtown San Jose will gain a sophisticated new dining destination this August. Santos opens at 17 North San Pedro Street as a modern Mexican steakhouse that blends regional flavors with premium steakhouse preparation.

MDM Hospitality Group commits between five hundred thousand and one million dollars to the buildout. The project generates twenty to thirty jobs across kitchen and service roles while establishing a lasting presence in the neighborhood.

The interior design creates a dark and elegant atmosphere suited for memorable evenings. This addition builds on the growing restaurant focus in San Pedro Square.

A Japanese Mexican fusion pop-up called Bar Tako will operate in the future home of Santos until July 3rd.

Source: SVBJ

California State Capital Heads Back to Downtown San Jose

California lawmakers delivered a decision that will reshape state government for decades ahead. The capital will relocate from Sacramento to Downtown San Jose beginning in 2027.

Thousands of state jobs will arrive in the city center along with major infrastructure upgrades. The historic Capitol building will take its place among the growing skyline of Downtown San Jose. This move will solidify the South Bay as the true heart of California. San Jose will gain fresh political and economic momentum that will benefit residents for generations.

The entire region will benefit from the increased attention and investment. San Jose will continue its steady rise as one of the most dynamic cities anywhere.

Happy April Fools’ Day. The team here at The San Jose Blog enjoys imagining these big leaps that help push our city toward becoming the greatest in the world.