Fountain Blues and Brews Festival Brings Timeless Sounds to Downtown San Jose

San Jose holds onto its musical roots through gatherings that fill the Plaza with energy and sound. This weekend the Fountain Blues and Brews Festival celebrates its 43rd year as California's longest running blues event.

Eric Gales and Ronnie Baker Brooks headline a program that mixes blues with soul, rock, jazz, gospel, and R&B. A beer garden stocked by more than forty craft breweries stands ready alongside food options that include lobster rolls, pizza, tacos, and barbecue from local stands.

Artisan Alley presents local makers with jewelry, crafts, and goods while the Instrument Petting Zoo offers interactive fun for all ages. The festival received the Silver Award for Best Festival in Silicon Valley in 2024 and continues to draw strong crowds.

Support from the City of San José and Mayor Matt Mahan helps sustain this tradition that began in 1981 on the San Jose State University campus. The result delivers a full experience of music, drinks, food, and community right in Downtown San Jose.

For tickets and additional information visit fountainblues.com.

Diwali Carnival Illuminates Downtown San Jose This Weekend

Downtown San Jose will come alive with the spirit of Diwali on October 25 from 3 p.m. to 9 p.m. at Plaza de Cesar Chavez. Organized by the Association of Indo Americans, this free event invites everyone to join in the Festival of Lights, complete with colorful decorations that transform the area into a festive wonderland. Attendees can look forward to a mix of cultural elements that highlight Indian traditions, making it a welcoming gathering for families and friends across the community.

The evening features a live concert by Vidya Vox, whose energetic performances blend global sounds with South Asian influences, drawing crowds eager for music and dance. Alongside the show, visitors will find vendor booths offering shopping for clothing, jewelry, and handicrafts, plus a variety of street foods that capture the flavors of the season. Activities include interactive dances and displays that encourage participation, fostering a sense of unity and joy under the stars.

This carnival adds to San Jose's calendar of multicultural celebrations, showcasing the city's diverse heritage in the heart of Downtown. With over 20,000 expected participants, the event provides an accessible way to experience new customs and connect with neighbors.

Hapa's Oktoberfest: A Festive Fall Kickoff in San Jose

San Jose welcomes the autumn season with Hapa's Oktoberfest, set for October 5 from noon until 9 p.m. at Hapa’s Brewing Company Creekside on Barack Obama Boulevard. This gathering brings together locals and visitors for a day filled with traditional German beers, liter lagers, and hearty pretzels alongside special food offerings.

Live music sets the tone throughout the afternoon and evening, encouraging attendees to join in games and friendly competitions like stein-holding contests. All are welcome (including well-behaved furry friends) and this event is free.

Alebrijes Drone Show Tonight at Ritmos Y Colores

San Jose hosts Ritmos Y Colores on September 6, 2025, from 5pm to 10pm at Plaza de César Chávez in Downtown, offering a free celebration of Mexican folk art, music, and community for all ages. Presented by San Jose Jazz in collaboration with Culture Night Market, the festival features illuminated alebrijes, fantastical creatures from Mexican tradition, alongside live performances and interactive experiences. This gathering invites everyone to explore the city's diverse heritage through colorful displays and shared activities that highlight imagination and unity.

The schedule starts at 5pm with Philthy Dronez setting the tone, followed by a 5:45pm meetup for the folkloric community procession at 6:15pm featuring Calpulli Ocelocihuatl, lowriders, Mariachi Alma Bohemia de Angel Mendez, Grupo Folklorico Los Lupeños, and the SJZ High School All Stars Float. El Conjunto Nueva Ola performs at 7pm, leading into an 8pm alebrijes drone show presented by San Jose Downtown Association, an 8:20pm fashion show with Vida Collection by Paulina, and Las Cafeteras closing at 8:45pm.

Attendees can join the procession with free water and a colorful scarf provided near the LionBull Alebrije by the stone stage, adding a participatory touch to the festivities. The night market offers local vendors, art activities, and flavors that reflect San Jose's multicultural fabric, encouraging connections among participants.

Chicano Soul Fest Lights Up San Jose with Culture and Rhythm

San Jose hosts the 4th Annual Chicano Soul Fest on September 6, 2025, at History Park, inviting everyone to a day of music, art, and community from 11am to 7pm. Organized by Mas Dulce Productions, the event celebrates Chicano heritage through diverse performances, Lowriders, and interactive experiences. With free entry for kids 12 and under, tickets available on Eventbrite make it easy for families to join in the festivities at 635 Phelan Ave.

The lineup includes artists like Dayna Donna, Los So-Lows, Johnny David, The Notations, Joe Bataan, Lighter Shade of Brown, and a guest appearance by Jose Santana. Bay Area DJs from The Frisco Gang and Suavecito Oldies keep the energy high, while cultural groups Calpulli Tonalehqueh and Los Mestizos deliver captivating shows. A tribute to Brenton Wood honors his legacy in Chicano and Lowrider communities, alongside the Souleros Exhibition with a short film documentary and curated display exploring Black and Brown connections through music.

Attendees find over 200 Lowriders throughout the park, an art exhibition on Chicano Resilience by 1Culture, creative vendors, and food options. Booths from the San Jose Sharks and San Jose Earthquakes add local sports flair. Supported by sponsors like the City of San Jose and Councilman D5 Peter Ortiz, the festival aims to sustain itself long-term, creating jobs and eventually offering free access to strengthen community bonds. For more info and tickets, head over here.

Flavor Showdown in Little Italy San Jose's Boss of the Sauce Event

San Jose will host a lively competition today with the fourth annual Boss of the Sauce tournament in Little Italy. From noon until 4 p.m. at 323 West Saint John Street, Italian restaurants present their signature sauces for attendees to sample and judge. This gathering celebrates the city's rich culinary traditions through direct participation from visitors who decide the winner.

General admission costs $25 and includes unlimited pasta tastings paired with the competing sauces, along with live music to set a festive mood. The event draws food enthusiasts eager to explore diverse flavors, from classic marinara to inventive twists, all crafted by local establishments. Such occasions highlight San Jose's growing reputation as a hub for authentic Italian experiences right in the heart of the city.

Visitors can immerse themselves in the vibrant Little Italy district, where the tournament fosters community connections over shared meals. Events like this add to San Jose's dynamic calendar, offering memorable ways to spend a Sunday afternoon while supporting neighborhood businesses.

For more info and tickets, click here.

Experience the Magic of Greece at the San Jose Greek Festival

San Jose transforms into a vibrant celebration of Greek culture every summer with the San Jose Greek Festival. Held from May 30th to June 1st, 2025, at Saint Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church in the Rose Garden neighborhood, this event draws locals and visitors alike to connect over food, music, and tradition. Whether you’re a food enthusiast, a music lover, or just looking for a fun family outing, this festival delivers an experience that’s hard to match.

The festival grounds come alive with the rich aromas of Greek cuisine wafting through the air. Think tender lamb chops, sizzling gyros, and golden loukoumades dripping with honey—each dish a testament to time-honored recipes. Beyond the food, you’ll find live music filling the space, with traditional dance groups in colorful costumes moving to the rhythm. The outdoor market adds to the excitement, offering imported wines, handcrafted goods, and artisanal cheeses. It’s a family-friendly affair, too, with plenty of activities to keep kids entertained while adults soak in the lively atmosphere under the South Bay sun.

Since its start in 1969 at the Santa Clara County Fairgrounds, it has grown into the largest Greek festival in the region, now a cherished tradition at Saint Nicholas. The dedication of volunteers and the enthusiasm of attendees have fueled its evolution, turning it into a weekend that celebrates heritage and togetherness. Walking through the grounds, you can feel the pride in every detail.

Don’t let this chance slip by to dive into Greek culture right here in our city. The San Jose Greek Festival invites you to eat, dance, and explore a world of traditions without leaving town. Mark your calendars, bring your appetite, and get ready for a weekend that promises joy, flavor, and a little bit of Greece in the heart of San Jose. Opa!

42nd Fountain Blues & Brews Festival in San Jose

San Jose comes alive with the soulful sounds of blues and the clinking of craft beer glasses as the Fountain Blues & Brews Festival returns to Downtown for its 42nd year. Held at Plaza de César Chavez on June 14-15, this award-winning event—voted the Best Festival in Silicon Valley—offers a weekend packed with live music, local brews, food trucks, and family fun. It’s an ideal way to kick off summer while soaking in the vibrant energy of the city’s core.

The festival delivers a dynamic lineup of blues musicians, filling the air with soulful guitar riffs and powerful vocals. Alongside the tunes, attendees can explore a wide selection of craft beers from local breweries and enjoy tasty bites from food trucks serving up Southern-inspired dishes. Families will find plenty to love too, with vintage games and activities designed for all ages.

Beyond the music and flavors, the Fountain Blues & Brews Festival celebrates community spirit. It shines a spotlight on local artists, brewers, and vendors, weaving together the threads of San Jose’s creative culture. The open layout of Plaza de César Chavez enhances the experience, offering plenty of space to relax, connect, and enjoy the day. Gates open at 11 a.m. each day, with “in and out” privileges so you can come and go as you please. Kids 12 and under get in free with a paid adult, and VIP packages elevate the fun with perks like exclusive seating and drink tickets.

Ready to join the party? Tickets are available now, and grabbing them early scores you a discount. 

Tet Festival San Jose on Feb 7, 8, and 9

There is one last round of Lunar New Year festivities this year. The largest Tet Festival in the United States is taking place at Eastridge Mall this weekend from Feb 7th to the 9th. It will feature live entertainment, lion dancing, the Miss Viet Nam California Pageant, fashion shows, a watermelon eating contest, carnival games, rides, and food vendors.

The event is free and located in front of the former Sears parking lot. The event runs from 3pm to 11pm on Friday and from 11am to 11pm on Saturday and Sunday.

Lunar New Year in Japantown

San Jose's Japantown is celebrating Lunar New Year this Saturday, February 1st from 11am to 3pm. The party will feature lion dancers, vendors, lucky bags (fukubukuro), mochi making, and live performances. The lucky bags contain mystery items and are sold at a discount. You'll be able to find these at a variety of stores listed below.

Lunar New Year at Santana Row

This year, Santana Row will welcome the Year of the Snake on Saturday, February 1st from 11am-1pm in Santana Row Park. The family-friendly event will be hosted by NBC Bay Area and feature a large number of performances. You can find the list of performers below along with dining and shopping specials.

The San Antonio Festival

The inaugural San Antonio Festival takes places today from 10am to 5pm on Paseo de San Antonio between 1st and 2nd Street in Downtown San Jose. This is a key corridor that connects San Jose State University to the central core Downtown.

This family friendly event will feature a local pop-up market in collaboration with Moment, community workshops, entrepreneurial resources, live performances, and immersive art experiences. For more info head over here.

Mosaic Festival today at History Park San Jose

The Mosaic Festival celebrates the diverse cultures in our own neighborhoods. The purpose of the event is to welcome and honor everyone's unique history while also creating a vision of our shared future. There will be music, dancing, vendors, food, and activities.

The event is free and open to all ages. It takes place from 10am to 6pm today at History Park San Jose.

7th Annual Little Italy San Jose Italian Festival

The Little Italy San Jose Italian Festival is back this Sunday, October 6th. This is an action packed event going from 11am to 7pm, with an afterparty at the Italian Cellar Speakeasy from 7pm to 11pm.

The festival includes one of the largest Italian car shows in the United States, tons of authentic Italian cuisine, wine tasting, nonstop live music, arts & crafts, children's activities, and tours of the brand new Italian Museum (San Jose's first new museum in ages).

For more information, head over here.

Inaugural Tully East Festival Sep 28-29

East San Jose is getting more and more attention these days. Earlier this year, the main San Jose fireworks show was in Lake Cunningham for the first time and the VTA Lightrail extension to Eastridge is a go. Now East San Jose is getting a new festival.

The Tully East Festival is on the weekend of September 28th-29th and will feature over 150 vendors, food trucks, and artists. There will even be a mini cat town with 30 adoptable kittens on site. The event also has live entertainment and activities for all ages. It runs from 11am-6pm in front of the Eastridge Center.

Festival for Foodies

Westfield Valley Fair is hosting a foodie event this Friday. You can sample dishes from 14 restaurants while enjoying live music and pop-up shops. Featured eateries include Salt & Straw, Rooster & Rice, and Shake Shack. Each $40 ticket includes 10 food tastings and games/prizes.

For those with bigger appetites, there are also dine-in experiences for a higher ticket price at Eataly, Mastro's, AnQi, Tacomania, and King's Fish House (one of my favorites).

Proceeds of ticket sales will benefit the Hunger At Home non-profit. The event is this Friday, August 16th from 12pm to 8pm. For more information and tickets, click here.

Swades Indian Festival today

In addition to the Jazz Festival, there is a second major event happening Downtown today to celebrate Indian Independence Day. It features tons of food, live music, cultural performances, a Bollywood open air concert, and a night market with over 100 vendor booths.

Admission is $10 per person and it is kid-friendly (kids under 12 are free). For more info, click here.

Sazon Latin Food Festival in San Jose

The Sazon Latin Food Festival is coming to the Japantown area next month. This free, family-friendly event celebrates the rich diversity of Latin American cuisine and culture, featuring food from the Caribbean, Central America, and South America, along with live Latin music. 

Event Details:

Date: Saturday, August 31st and Sunday, September 1st, 2024
Time: 11:00 am - 6:00 pm
Location: Gordon Biersch Brewing Company at 357 E Taylor St, San Jose, CA 95112

Event Link: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/sazon-latin-food-festival-in-san-jose-two-days-family-friendly-tickets-889886543607

Highlights:

• A dozen food vendors offering authentic Latin American dishes

• Merchandise vendors with unique items reflecting Latin American culture

• Family-friendly activities such as face painting and henna

• Live salsa music band performing

San Jose Water Lantern Festival

A three-day lantern festival is coming to Almaden Lake Park in South San Jose from June 21-23. Each day starts with food trucks, music, and activities. Around 8pm, you can design your lantern and then between 8:30 and 10pm you launch your lantern into the lake.

Tickets range from $27-56, but the cheapest pricing ends on March 6th. Tickets include a floating lantern kit, LED candle, a drawstring bag, and lantern retrieval and clean up at the end of the event.

For more information and to get tickets, head here.

Lunar New Year Community Day at the San Jose Museum of Art

Tomorrow from 11am-4pm there is one more Lunar New Year event at the SJMA. Welcome the year of the dragon with cultural demonstrations, live performances, and interactive artmaking activities. These include making paper dragons, Chinese stamps, and figurines based on the Vietnamese Tet traditions.

At 11:30am there is a performance by the Korean Culture Center at the Circle of Palms in front of Plaza de Cesar Chavez. Later at 3pm there is a traditional Lion Dance performance (which is amazing).

Admission to this event is completely free and is kid-friendly.