17th Annual San Jose International Short Film Festival Lights Up Santana Row

San Jose welcomes back the International Short Film Festival for its 17th year, running from October 16 through 19. Over four days, more than 150 captivating short films from filmmakers worldwide will screen at the CineArts Theatre in Santana Row. This gathering transforms the city's premier shopping and dining destination into a hub for cinematic discovery, where surround sound and luxury seating enhance every moment.

The lineup spans an array of genres to suit all tastes, including documentaries that challenge perspectives, dramas filled with emotional depth, world cinema offering global insights, comedies for lighthearted laughs, science fiction and horror for thrilling escapes, animations with artistic flair, and shorts perfect for families. Organized into over 20 screening blocks with added special events, the program ensures a dynamic experience that keeps audiences engaged from start to finish.

As one of the top 50 film festivals recognized by MovieMaker Magazine for its value, the event celebrates excellence through awards in categories such as Best Drama, Best Animation, Best Documentary, Best Comedy, Best Sci-Fi, Best Family Film, and Best of Fest. Past honorees have included standout works like I'm not a robot and We Were Meant To, reflecting the high caliber of talent that converges here each year.

VIP pass holders gain access to exclusive perks, including the Wine and Short Film Pairings event and the Filmmaker Lounge with refreshments and private screenings of previous festival favorites. The Guest of Honor celebration spotlights influential figures in independent film, adding a layer of prestige to the proceedings.

This festival underscores San Jose's growing reputation as a cultural powerhouse in Silicon Valley, blending innovative storytelling with the area's spirit of creativity. Whether you're a film enthusiast or new to the scene, it offers a chance to connect with fresh ideas and fellow attendees in one of our city's most lively spots.

For more info and tickets, head over here.

San Jose’s Summer of Sound: Free Concerts to Light Up St. James Park

St. James Park is about to come alive with the 2025 Levitt San Jose concert series! This season promises eight incredible nights of free live music, transforming our Downtown San Jose' St. James Park into a celebration of sound and community. Leading the charge is Suzanne St. John-Crane, the new Director of Strategy for Levitt San Jose. With her deep experience in non-profits and passion for cultural equity, she’s steering this initiative toward something truly special—a chance for everyone to enjoy music, connect with neighbors, and revel in our city’s vibrant spirit.

Kicking off on May 25 with Africa Day featuring Riddim Exchange’s pulsing Afrobeat rhythms, the series spans genres like blues with Maxx Cabello Jr., country vibes from Cash’d Out, and a Roots Reggae Bash headlined by Groundation. There’s even a Psychedelic Latinx Night with Valley Wolf and a Cumbia Celebration led by Bululú. Every concert is free, family-friendly, and paired with food vendors and local artists, making St. James Park the place to be from May through September. It’s an open invitation to dance, unwind, and soak in the creativity that defines our city.

What makes this series stand out is its heart. Levitt San Jose is about bringing people together and reclaiming public spaces for joy. The events reflect a commitment to inclusivity, showcasing talents and traditions from across the globe right here in our backyard. Plus, it’s a win for Downtown San Jose’s economy. Live music draws crowds that spill into local restaurants and shops, boosting small businesses with every note played. As Levitt San Jose works toward a permanent Pavilion, these concerts are laying the foundation for St. James Park to shine as a year-round hub.

So, grab a blanket, round up your crew, and mark your calendars for a summer of unforgettable nights. The 2025 Levitt San Jose concert series is more than a lineup—it’s a movement to make music a cornerstone of our city’s life. Head to www.levittsanjose.org for more details.