Discover South First Fridays: San Jose's Vibrant Art Walk in the SoFA District

San Jose comes alive on the first Friday of each month with South First Fridays, a celebration of creativity that draws locals and visitors into the heart of the SoFA District. Galleries and museums open their doors wide, showcasing fresh exhibitions from talented artists who capture the essence of innovation and culture. From paintings that explore human connections to immersive installations reflecting diverse heritages, the event offers a chance to engage directly with the works and their creators. This gathering highlights the city's commitment to fostering artistic expression, turning ordinary evenings into memorable explorations of visual storytelling.

The STREET MRKT adds an energetic layer to the experience, transforming South First Street into an open-air marketplace where independent artists display and sell their unique pieces. Food trucks serve up local flavors, while live DJ sets keep the atmosphere lively into the night. Venues like the San Jose Institute of Contemporary Art and MACLA feature standout shows, including explorations of cultural roots through folk-inspired art and textile innovations. These elements combine to create a family-friendly space that encourages everyone to support the creative community and discover new favorites.

Beyond the core area, the event extends to the Historic District and Martha Gardens District, with additional spots hosting photography tributes and poetry performances. San Jose's art scene thrives through such initiatives, building connections among residents and reinforcing the city's role as a hub for cultural growth. Attending South First Fridays not only provides entertainment but also contributes to the ongoing vitality of Downtown San Jose, where every visit helps nurture a brighter future for the arts.

The next South First Friday is... today! Come on down from 5-9pm. The Street Market runs from 5pm-10pm. Admission is free and it is family friendly.

Source: South FIRST FRIDAYS

Downtown San Jose Prepares for Major Events with New Art on the Market Street Garage, but at a Price

San Jose keeps enhancing its urban landscape through ambitious public art initiatives that promise to draw visitors from near and far. The latest project involves a $1.8 million installation on the facade of the Market Street parking garage adjacent to San Pedro Square. Created by artist Brian Brush, this abstract work combines color, light, industrial materials, and LED elements to create a dynamic visual experience. Construction begins on August 8, with demolition wrapping up in time for the 2026 Super Bowl, and full completion expected by August 2027. This timing aligns perfectly with the city's role in hosting both the Super Bowl and FIFA World Cup games, setting the stage for Downtown San Jose to shine on a global scale.

Unfortunately, the project requires a temporary closure of the four Moment San Pedro artisan stores housed in the garage since June 30. Moment serves as a vital incubator for small businesses, providing affordable brick-and-mortar spaces in high-traffic areas with two-year leases. Over the years, more than 20 businesses have thrived in these San Pedro storefronts, gaining stability and community connections that extend beyond pop-up events. The other Moment locations on Post Street and Paseo de San Antonio remain open and vibrant, continuing to support local entrepreneurs.

Looking ahead, the Moment team aims to reopen the San Pedro spaces by early 2027, once construction concludes, allowing displaced businesses the chance to return and build on their progress. This development ties into broader efforts like the Threads Woven mural on San Pedro Square and relaxed rules in entertainment zones, all designed to boost foot traffic and energy in Downtown San Jose.

Source: San Jose Spotlight

Mazza Pizza N Grill Brings Fresh Flavors to the SJSU Area

San Jose's food landscape keeps evolving with local spots like the newly rebranded Mazza Pizza N Grill at 484 E. San Carlos St. This pizzeria, previously known as San Carlos Pizza, has undergone a thoughtful transformation under the same family ownership. Manager Yousef Latifi led the effort to update the over 20-year-old establishment, drawing from its roots while introducing a name that nods to the Farsi word for tasty. The result is a welcoming space that blends familiar comforts with new energy, perfectly positioned near San Jose State University to serve both longtime residents and incoming students.

The renovations touch every corner of the restaurant, from a freshly painted interior and upgraded patio to modern kitchen equipment like a new drink cooler, thermometer, and digital scales. At a cost of about $30,000, these changes support an expanded menu featuring a revamped pizza sauce, in-house garlic chicken strips, tri-tip steak toppings, and Grande-branded mozzarella cheese. Plans for Mediterranean-inspired wraps add even more variety, complementing the Italian staples and creating options that reflect San Jose's diverse tastes. Customers have responded positively to the updates, with initial confusion over the new signage giving way to enthusiasm for the refreshed concept.

Yousef Latifi has focused on building connections with the nearby university community, partnering with sororities and fraternities to promote the shop through flyers and potential philanthropy events as the fall semester approaches in late August. A strong social media presence on TikTok, Instagram, and Facebook helps spread the word, showcasing the vibrant offerings to a wider audience. Core favorites remain unchanged, including the $9.99 one-topping 10-inch pizza, various pastas like chicken alfredo, halal chicken and steak kabob platters, and beer alongside the meals.

Open daily from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., Mazza Pizza N Grill offers convenient delivery through apps such as DoorDash, Uber Eats, and Postmates, with in-person and phone orders available too.

Source: SVBJ

MiGi Cera Candles Celebrates Grand Opening in Downtown San Jose

Downtown San Jose welcomed a new addition to its creative scene with the recent grand opening of MiGi Cera Candles at 100 N. Almaden Ave. in San Pedro Square Market. The ribbon-cutting ceremony on July 18 featured remarks from Mayor Matt Mahan and the San Jose Downtown Association, marking the transition from a successful pop-up to a permanent storefront. This family-owned business, which began in 2018 when owner Marcelina Castro started crafting candles from her kitchen during maternity leave, now offers a dedicated space for non-toxic, handcrafted candles and self-care products. Named after her daughters Milah and Giannah, MiGi Cera Candles embodies personal touches that resonate with the community's spirit.

The shop emerged from the MOMENT Paseo program, a Downtown initiative launched in May 2024 to support local entrepreneurs by reducing barriers to retail. MiGi Cera Candles quickly gained traction in its shared pop-up space, drawing crowds eager for candle-making and soap-making workshops. Visitors can now explore signature scents blended from multiple oils, often inspired by loved ones and meaningful places. The new location serves as more than a retail spot, providing a venue for hands-on classes where people create, connect, and relax amid San Jose's lively atmosphere.

Castro's deep roots in San Jose made San Pedro Square the ideal choice for this expansion, surrounded by restaurants, bars, and shops that enhance the area's appeal. During the opening, special deals like buy-one-get-one-half-off on candles attracted enthusiastic attendees, highlighting the shop's commitment to community engagement. Open daily, MiGi Cera Candles invites residents and visitors to join workshops or pick up eco-friendly items, adding to the growing list of unique experiences that make Downtown San Jose a hub for innovation and community.

San Jose's Emerging Electric Vehicle Hub Promises a Greener Future

A fresh proposal aims to transform an industrial building in North San Jose into a dedicated electric vehicle preparation and delivery center. Located at 2256 Junction Avenue near key Interstate 880 interchanges, the site spans 107,700 square feet and could handle storage for several hundred vehicles. Developer Prologis plans to upgrade the facility with enhanced power systems, LED lighting, office refreshes, site paving and roof repairs to support efficient operations starting potentially in mid-2026.

This development includes space for a possible showroom alongside standard vehicle servicing such as software updates, tire replacements and part installations. With 920 spots for vehicles and an additional 117 for employees, customers and visitors, the hub requires scheduled appointments for deliveries, ensuring smooth and organized experiences. The shift from earlier ideas like an Amazon logistics center highlights San Jose's adaptability in embracing sustainable technologies.

The project stands to invigorate the local economy by creating opportunities in logistics, tech support and related fields, aligning with the city's growing focus on clean energy. As Prologis reports strong financial health with billions in recent profits and revenue, this initiative could draw more investment to the area. San Jose residents benefit from advancements that promote reduced emissions and innovative mobility solutions, reinforcing the city's position as a leader in environmental progress.

Source: The Mercury News

Quick update on Saratoga Ave Master Plan

Today I saw a render that was new (to me) about the plan for Saratoga Ave near Westgate. The plan would allow for 1,620 more homes and 720,000 SQFT of commercial or office space along the corridor. It would essentially fill all of the street parking with higher density development. For more details and to actually participate in the planning process, you can read the relevant part of the District 1 Newsletter below.

Source: District 1 Newsletter - 

The City of San José is planning for its future, and we want your voice to be part of that conversation. 

 

As part of the Envision San José 2040 General Plan, the Urban Village strategy supports the development of housing and job growth in key commercial corridors such as Saratoga Ave. This growth is accompanied with updated policies to promote a complete community that is more walkable, bike-friendly, and transit-connected. Urban Villages are designed to support a healthier, more sustainable city by reducing car dependence, revitalizing underutilized properties, and promoting strong local economies. 

 

Urban Villages are planned intentionally to include a mix of housing types, employment options, and amenities such as places to gather. They are a key part of the 2040 General Plan to create better connected neighborhoods that address pressing priorities in housing affordability and environmental resilience. Urban Villages were carefully selected to support San José’s long-term environmental, fiscal, and transportation goals while respecting the existing character of established single-family neighborhoods. 

 

City staff and our office are currently sharing early draft concepts for the Saratoga Urban Village Plan. We are working to gather as much community feedback as possible from residents, neighbors, tenants, property owners, and business owners. 

If you live, work, or spend time in the area, we want to hear from you. Your input and participation will help shape the future of land use, housing, transportation, open space, and amenities in this vital part of West San José. 

 

Please take a few minutes to fill out the survey on the draft concepts: 

 

Simplified Chinese: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdGpBEPc56C3u9WK2ErpFZBAY3QVBNN1H2wqSX5KpRCHSCGtA/viewform?usp=header

 

Spanish:

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSc569zL7kAjiXBoT4lr-bfc0HczKfrIp252j6PgKCvztPkcJg/viewform?usp=header

 

English: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfTiDLN3oXV7NfWygYsYRAdecUxNm9hWFwxhlBkFJcpJeNB6Q/viewform?usp=header

PG&E Partnership Fuels San Jose Data Center Boom and Job Surge

San Jose has forged a powerful alliance with PG&E to strengthen the city's electrical grid and meet the soaring energy demands from data centers. This collaboration positions San Jose as the West Coast's leading hub for data centers, with PG&E committing to upgrades that support 2,000 megawatts of new power demand. Such enhancements will triple the city's energy capacity, drawing in global companies eager to invest in a reliable infrastructure. This move highlights San Jose's proactive stance in fostering technological advancement and economic vitality.

The partnership includes a substantial $2.6 billion investment from PG&E into existing and new infrastructure projects. These efforts will enable immediate access to 250 megawatts of power for developers, accelerating construction and operations. One standout initiative is the Westbank net-zero community in Downtown San Jose, which integrates three data centers with over 4,000 residential units. This project features a heat-capture system that reduces energy costs for nearby residents and promotes low-carbon heating for environmental gains.

Beyond infrastructure, the deal promises significant employment opportunities, with projections of nearly 200,000 new jobs, primarily in construction. These positions will bolster the local workforce and contribute to broader prosperity. PG&E anticipates that the increased demand from data centers could lower monthly electricity bills for customers by 1% to 2% per gigawatt supplied, making energy slightly more affordable while generating tax revenue for city services.

Source: SVBJ

New Affordable Homes Set to Transform San Jose’s Housing Landscape

San Jose is taking a significant step toward addressing its housing needs with a new affordable housing development that’s ready to break ground. This project, located on a 0.97-acre site, will bring 158 rent-restricted units to the city, offering a mix of studios, one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments, along with two manager’s units. This development is a vital addition to San Jose’s ongoing efforts to provide accessible housing options for residents across various income levels, reinforcing the city’s commitment to inclusive growth.

The project’s approval comes with secured construction financing, a critical milestone that ensures its progress. This development will rise as a five-story building, designed to maximize space while creating a welcoming community for future residents. By focusing on affordability, San Jose is making strides to ensure that teachers, healthcare workers, and other essential professionals can live closer to where they work, fostering stronger community ties and reducing commute times.

This housing initiative is part of a broader wave of development activity in San Jose. From Downtown to the city’s outer neighborhoods, new projects are reshaping the urban landscape. The focus on affordable housing aligns with the city’s vision to balance growth with accessibility, ensuring that San Jose remains a place where people from all walks of life can thrive. The addition of these units will help ease the pressure on the local housing market, offering relief to those struggling to find affordable options in a competitive region.

The timing of this project couldn’t be better, as San Jose continues to attract new residents and businesses. With its proximity to major tech hubs and a thriving Downtown, the city is well-positioned to support a growing population. Affordable housing developments like this one ensure that San Jose remains a welcoming destination for families, young professionals, and seniors alike, all while maintaining its reputation as a hub of innovation and opportunity.

Source: SiliconValley.com

San Jose's Music Scene Shines with 40 Upcoming Concerts in 2025

The San Jose metro welcomes a dynamic lineup of live performances this year, featuring 40 concerts across various genres that showcase the area's thriving entertainment options. From country stars to rock legends, these events at venues like SAP Center, Levi’s Stadium, and The Mountain Winery in nearby Saratoga draw crowds eager for memorable nights. Highlights include major tours and special guests, making it wise to grab tickets early before popular shows sell out.

Early August kicks off with Morgan Wallen at Levi’s Stadium on Friday, August 1, and Saturday, August 2, joined by Miranda Lambert, Brooks & Dunn, and Anne Wilson for his I’m the Problem Tour 2025. That same weekend, Lynyrd Skynyrd brings classic rock hits like Sweet Home Alabama to The Mountain Winery on August 1, followed by Rick Springfield's I Want My ‘80s Tour with John Waite, Wang Chung, and Paul Young on August 2. Mid-month features Anuel AA's Real Hasta la Muerte 2 Tour at SAP Center on August 8, and Parker McCollum with Ashley Cooke on August 15, while Stunna Girl performs at Club Rodeo Rio that evening.

The momentum continues with The Beach Boys' Sounds of Summer Tour at The Mountain Winery on August 17, Blues Traveler and Gin Blossoms on August 19, and Save Ferris at The Ritz on August 21. Marco Antonio Solís takes the stage at SAP Center on August 22, Dave Matthews Band at Shoreline Amphitheatre on August 23, and Diana Ross at The Mountain Winery on August 16. Later dates include ZZ Top with Night Ranger on August 28 and a rock triple bill of The Offspring, Jimmy Eat World, and New Found Glory at Shoreline on August 30, promising diverse sounds for every taste.

These concerts not only entertain but also highlight San Jose as a hub for cultural experiences, blending local accessibility with world-class talent.

Source: SJ Today

San Pedro Saturdays Brings Creativity to Life in Downtown San Jose

The next San Pedro Saturdays is a fresh outdoor event dedicated to stationery, handmade crafts, and artistic expression. Set for July 26 from noon to 5 p.m., this gathering transforms Stationery Depot at 60 N. San Pedro Street into a hub for local talent. More than 20 artists, makers, and illustrators will display their notebooks, washi tapes, stickers, greeting cards, and notepads, offering visitors a chance to find one-of-a-kind items that spark joy and inspiration.

Attendees can dive into hands-on activities that make the day interactive and memorable. Options include crafting watercolor patterns and letterpress printing greeting cards with Love Through Letterpress and Sherry’s Palette, where supplies come free and each person takes home a card. Other highlights feature designing personalized postcards at Yours Truly, Mary Anne, swapping stickers at the MOMENT Trading Post, and decorating bookmarks or journals at a DIY station. A coloring area at Sueños adds flair with designs inspired by flowers, butterflies, and cultural icons, ensuring something for every age group.

Special touches elevate the experience, such as an exclusive Stationery Depot sticker sheet giveaway for the first 300 guests, created by Hungry Whales. Partnerships with organizations like SJMADE, the City of San Jose, and San Pedro Square support this community-driven initiative. Free parking for 90 minutes in nearby garages, including the Market & San Pedro Square Garage, makes it easy to join in.

Events like San Pedro Saturdays strengthen the bonds in Downtown San Jose by spotlighting local creators and encouraging shared creativity. They draw people together to celebrate the city's artistic side and build lasting connections.