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

San Jose Unveils Vibrant Branding for an Unforgettable 2026 Sports Lineup

San Jose stands ready to welcome the world in 2026 with an extraordinary lineup of major sporting events, including Super Bowl 60, the FIFA World Cup, NCAA March Madness, and the National Women’s Soccer League Championships. City leaders have introduced fresh branding under the banner of San Jose 26, featuring colorful logos that incorporate beloved local icons such as Santana Row, San Pedro Square, the Sonic Runway, and even the Eggo Waffle, an invention that originated right here. These designs also highlight diverse neighborhoods like Little Saigon, Little Portugal, and the St. Joseph Basilica, blending the city's rich cultural tapestry with playful sports elements like vibrant soccer balls, footballs, and basketballs in a modern font.

To support the influx of nearly half a million visitors, San Jose has launched a dedicated microsite packed with tools for planning itineraries, locating watch parties, and discovering local attractions. The site serves as a central hub for everyone eager to dive into the action, ensuring seamless navigation through the city's offerings. This initiative reflects San Jose's commitment to creating lasting impressions, encouraging fans to explore beyond the stadiums and return for future adventures in Silicon Valley's dynamic core.

The excitement builds with a packed schedule of community events, featuring 13 concerts headlined by national acts, 13 spectacular drone and light shows illuminating the night sky, and over 100 watch parties spread across districts. These festivities aim to keep the energy high around the clock during event periods, fostering a festive atmosphere that unites residents and guests. Downtown San Jose will shine as a focal point, with enhanced signage and public art projects connecting key areas and inviting exploration of its lively plazas, restaurants, and cultural spots.

City officials project an economic boost exceeding $1 billion from these events, with Super Bowl 60 alone expected to draw 90,000 tourists and generate $500 million, while the World Cup adds another $555 million from 260,000 attendees. This surge promises to invigorate local businesses, from Downtown eateries to neighborhood shops near Levi's Stadium. San Jose's strategic planning draws lessons from past hosting experiences, positioning the city to maximize benefits and showcase its innovation and diversity on a global stage.

As preparations ramp up, starting with the National Women’s Soccer League Championships in November 2025 at PayPal Park, San Jose emerges as a premier destination for sports enthusiasts. The new branding and event lineup highlight the city's unique blend of technology, culture, and community spirit, creating opportunities for memorable experiences. Residents and visitors alike can look forward to a year that celebrates San Jose's strengths and invites the world to join in the celebration.

Source: SVBJ

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