Levitt Pavilion San Jose Targets Summer 2028 Opening

San Jose advances its cultural landscape with the upcoming Levitt Pavilion, a $21 million music venue planned for a corner of St. James Park in Downtown San Jose. This project, in development since 2012, recently secured a tri-party agreement among the city, the Levitt Foundation, and Friends of Levitt San Jose. The agreement allocates $15 million from the city and $500,000 from the Levitt Foundation, plus annual operational support of $250,000. Friends of Levitt San Jose aims to raise at least $5 million to initiate construction, with hopes of reaching $7 million for added operational funds.

Once completed, the pavilion will host at least 50 free concerts each year, accommodating up to 5,000 guests. This setup promotes accessible live music for all ages, aligning with the mission to build community through performances. The venue's plug-and-play design allows local art groups and organizations to rent the space for events, enhancing its versatility. Acoustic technology ensures sound directs forward, minimizing impact on surrounding areas.

Similar Levitt pavilions in other cities have spurred significant development. For instance, Levitt Pavilion Dayton generated $310 million in capital investment since 2018, revitalizing vacant buildings. Levitt Pavilion Sioux Falls brought $560 million in new projects over five years, including retail, residences, and hotels. In San Jose, the pavilion could catalyze development around St. James Park, potentially adding 1,000 to 1,200 housing units on nearby sites.

Pop-up concerts sponsored by Levitt have already demonstrated the park's potential, drawing crowds to diverse acts like cumbia-punk-rock bands. These gatherings unite varied community members, from east side enthusiasts to local neighbors. The projected $14 million annual economic impact to Downtown San Jose underscores the venue's role in fostering growth and vibrancy.

For more information: https://levittsanjose.org/

Source: SVBJ

San Jose Wishlist - Halloween in the Park (Part XVII)

As Halloween approaches, it is time to resurrect one of my favorite wishlist items for San Jose. "Halloween in the Park."

Halloween is my favorite holiday of the year. It's the one day where you get to interact with your neighbors and the wider community. The level of creativity in decorations and costumes is also the most eclectic and interesting out of all the holidays for me--whether that's for trick-or-treating, Halloween parties, or work events.

In October it's tradition for The San Jose Blog have a wish-list post for Halloween in the Park. The idea is to build on the momentum that Christmas in the Park brings to San Jose each year and create something of similar scale for the month of October. A lot of the infrastructure such as wiring, lighting, and booths might even be able to be shared between the events. The goal would be to make Downtown San Jose the epicenter of October Halloween experiences, much as it is today with Christmas in the Park.

Below you will find brainstorming ideas we have collected for this concept so far over the years. Please have a look and provide your feedback and suggestions in the comments or on X (Twitter). Thanks!

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The largest draw to Downtown San Jose for many years now has been Christmas in the Park. It has continued to grow year after year and brings in visitors from all over the Bay Area. It's economic impact is substantial and helps keep many Downtown businesses and restaurants alive.

What would you think about a similar event for Halloween? Picture Downtown lit up in orange and purple with elaborate Halloween displays assembled by local artists. Perhaps infrastructure could even be shared with Christmas in the Park (e.g. retail booths). A strong event in October would help maintain traffic between the summer months and Christmas in the Park. Here are the ideas we have so far:

• Animated Halloween Displays
• Created by local artists
• Analogous to the Christmas displays that attract many families during Christmas in the Park (almost half a million visitors)
• Family friendly so that everyone can enjoy it (PG/PG13, perhaps around the same level as Great America's Halloween decorations)
• Halloween Lighting
• Orange, purple, and green LED lighting on trees
• May be possible to use programmable LED lighting that can go from Halloween colors to Christmas colors with the push of a button, allowing the lights to stay up for Christmas in the Park as well and reducing setup/take-down costs.
• Halloween Food
• Booths with candied apples, chocolates, candy, pumpkin seeds, etc.
• Food trucks
• Trick-or-treating station - a free piece of candy to anyone wearing a costume any day in October (could also be used to hand out promotional flyers for Downtown events/businesses/resources)
• Retail Booths selling Halloween items, for example:
• Artwork (paintings, glass pumpkins, etc.)
• Home decor/crafts like candles
• Light-up hats/necklaces/bracelets
• Costumes
• Zombie/Halloween make-up station 
• Halloween-themed Carnival Games
• Pirates of Emerson and Candlelighters (Fremont) do a good job of providing family-friendly games themed around Halloween
• A handful of children's rides could also be added to the Paseo and reused for Christmas in the Park
• Interactive Art
• Subzero-style, but with a Halloween spin.
• Halloween-themed video game kiosks and/or arcades
• Pumpkins
• Instead of the sponsored Christmas trees in Christmas in the Park, how about decorated Pumpkins (can even be Styrofoam so there is no mess/decay)?
• Pumpkin carving station for families. 
• Pumpkin carving contest.
• Costumed Entertainers
• Walking around the area, not necessarily scaring people but adding to the ambiance and providing photo opportunities for families
• Haunts / Mazes
• Would be ideal if these were nearby, perhaps in vacant retails spaces, surface parking lots, the San Jose Convention Center tent, or at SJSU.
• Could partners with one of the established San Jose haunt providers such as the Winchestor Mystery House or The Bernal SCREAM.
• Potential Events
• Zombie Crawl / 5k Run
• Dia De Los Muertos Events (already quite a few today)
• Halloween/Dia De Los Muertos Bike Party
• Horror Movie Trivia Contest
• Weekly horror movie screening (perhaps in the Circle of Palms area?)
• Costume Ball
• Pet costume contests and pet-friendly events

Inspirations:

• Winchester Mystery House Unhinged
• Candle Lighters
• Pirates of Emerson
• The Great Jack O'Lantern Blaze (photos below)

Gateway Tower Rises: Affordable High-Rise Housing Approved for Downtown San Jose

Over $38 million in loans has been approved for the Gateway Tower project, a 15-story building set to bring 220 affordable units to the SoFA District at 470 South Market Street. Developed by Core Cos., this marks the city's first purpose-built high-rise for workforce housing in Downtown San Jose. The shift to a fully affordable model addresses long-standing financing hurdles and aligns with efforts to meet housing needs amid economic pressures. With construction potentially starting in March 2026 and wrapping up in about two years, the tower promises to add vital residences to the urban core.

The project reserves 120 units for extremely low-income households, with rents starting at $1,055 for studios and reaching $1,567 for three-bedrooms. Another 98 units target households earning between 50% and 70% of the area median income, offering rents from $1,758 for studios to $2,611 for three-bedrooms, plus two manager units. Public funding, including an additional $25 million from the county, totals over $63 million to make this possible. Such investments highlight San Jose's dedication to creating accessible living options that support diverse communities, including artists who contribute to the local creative economy generating nearly $300 million annually.

Downtown San Jose will gain a new landmark that enhances its southern gateway, blending modern design with proximity to arts and cultural spots. City leaders emphasize how the tower will strengthen the area's character and help retain talent in Silicon Valley.

sfyimby.com

Meeting Tomorrow For Gateway Tower, Downtown San Jose - San Francisco YIMBY

Source: The Mercury News

Scott's Social Club: Elevating Networking in Downtown San Jose

Scott's Social Club will perched on the seventh-floor rooftop at 88 South Fourth Street. This private club steps in to address the gap created by the closure of the Silicon Valley Capital Club earlier this year, offering a space where entrepreneurs, business leaders, and elected officials can gather. The opening mixer on October 15 marks the start, inviting members to enjoy stunning views while building relationships that drive the city's economy forward. With membership starting at $150 per month and options for young professionals, corporate groups, and nonprofits, the club makes networking accessible in the heart of Silicon Valley.

Regular events form the core of the experience, including mixers held twice a month featuring local wineries, distilleries, and breweries. A monthly dining event adds variety, complemented by perks such as discounts at Scott's Seafood and validated parking. Organizers plan to expand benefits through partnerships, potentially including deals at golf courses and spots in the Las Vegas area. This setup encourages meaningful interactions, helping members forge deals and collaborations that strengthen San Jose's innovative community.

Four specialized councils focus on young professionals, LGBTQ individuals, women, and business interests, allowing tailored programming and events. A share of membership dues supports local nonprofits, providing them platforms to connect with potential donors. Already, over 200 people have signed up for the first mixer, with early memberships reaching about 30 shortly after launch. The goal of 250 members reflects confidence in the club's role within Downtown San Jose..

Source: SVBJ

Golden State Valkyries Block Party Today

Golden State Valkyries take the court for their first-ever playoff game, SJDA is hosting a pregame Block Party, for all fans, with, or without a game ticket. This is more than just a pregame party; it’s a chance for Valkyries fan to unite, share its passion, and build an electric atmosphere that will carry our team to victory. Come early, be loud, and get ready to be a part of this historic moment in Bay Area sports.

Enjoy good music, outdoor games, face painting, poster making, food, take some shots on our sports court, and so much more.

San Jose Jazz Summer Fest 2025 Promises Three Days of Musical Magic in Downtown

San Jose gears up for the 35th San Jose Jazz Summer Fest from August 8 to 10 at Plaza de Cesar Chavez Park, where nine stages will host jazz, blues, salsa, Latin, R&B, and global music. This annual celebration draws music lovers to Downtown San Jose for a weekend filled with performances, food options, and family-friendly activities that showcase the city's lively arts scene. The festival kicks off with events like the Noche de Alebrijes Gala on August 6, setting the stage for an unforgettable experience in the heart of Silicon Valley.

The lineup features standout artists such as Lalah Hathaway, Preservation Hall Jazz Band, Jose James, Andre Cruz, Chris Lujan, Bennett Roth, and the Oakland Interfaith Gospel Choir, among others performing across various stages including the California Theatre Stage and Montgomery Theater Stage. Attendees can enjoy sets at venues like the ASML Next Gen Stage at the San Jose Museum of Art, starting at noon, with opportunities to discover emerging talents alongside established names. This diverse array of music reflects San Jose's inclusive spirit, offering something for every taste from soulful rhythms to energetic beats.

Tickets remain available at various levels to suit different preferences, ensuring accessibility for all ages to join the festivities. Special elements include the festival app for schedules and updates, plus interactive zones that enhance the overall experience. For more information and tickets, head over here.

Playback Coffee Brings Analog Vibes and Fresh Brews to San Pedro Square

San Jose welcomes Playback Coffee, a new spot that blends coffee culture with an analog music theme right in the heart of San Pedro Square Market. Opened by Dave Mulvehill of Nuvo Hospitality and Frank Nguyen of Academic Coffee, the cafe at 87 N. San Pedro St. draws inspiration from the city's rich radio broadcast history. Visitors can enjoy a menu of contemporary drinks in a relaxed setting that nods to vintage sounds, making it a fresh addition to the local scene.

The grand opening on July 26 drew hundreds with live DJ sets that had people dancing under the afternoon sun, while lines formed for orders. This event showcased the cafe's focus on community and entertainment, turning a simple coffee run into a social highlight. Mulvehill's portfolio includes nearby favorites like the Pressroom, Hella Good Burgers and Shakes, Dr. Funk Rum House & Kitchen, Five Points Cocktail Bar, and O’Flaherty’s Irish Pub, strengthening the area's appeal as a hub for diverse experiences.

Nguyen, who started Academic Coffee as a pop-up in one of Mulvehill's venues back in 2017, emphasizes his deep ties to Downtown San Jose, where he raises his family and builds connections with neighbors. Their collaboration fills a space previously held by Voyager Coffee, now relocated, and reflects a shared vision for hands-on involvement in the community. Mayor Matt Mahan attended the opening, noting the importance of such investments in revitalizing the downtown area.

Playback Coffee operates daily from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., offering a consistent spot for locals and visitors to unwind.

Source: SVBJ

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

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.

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 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.

New Condos Rising on West San Carlos: A Fresh Boost for San Jose Living

San Jose continues to evolve with innovative projects that enhance its urban fabric, and the latest proposal at 1470 West San Carlos Street stands out as a promising addition. This seven-story development aims to bring 180 condominiums to the corner of West San Carlos and Willard Avenue, replacing a vacant lot and an underutilized commercial building on a 0.85-acre site. Owned by affiliates linked to local business leaders Thahn Nguyen, Dylan Nguyen, and Margaret Pham, the project includes 1,700 square feet of ground-floor retail or office space, creating a mixed-use hub that supports both residents and nearby businesses.

The residential mix caters to diverse needs with 141 two-bedroom units, 21 one-bedroom units, and 18 three-bedroom units, all designed in a donut-shaped building that centers outdoor open space for residents. This layout shields the communal area from street noise and traffic while keeping it accessible, fostering a sense of community in a bustling corridor. Developers from WSC Development emphasize how this setup aligns with the West San Carlos Urban Village Plan, turning an overlooked parcel into vital housing that encourages walking or biking to Downtown San Jose for work and daily activities.

What makes this project particularly noteworthy is its focus on for-sale condos, a rarity in the West San Carlos area where rental developments often dominate. Real estate experts like Bob Staedler from Silicon Valley Synergy highlight the corridor's potential for substantial housing growth in the coming years. By pursuing a streamlined approval process under California's SB 330 law, the team aims to deliver a standout building that draws new residents and invigorates local commerce, contributing to San Jose's vibrant future.

Source: SiliconValley.com 

Playback Coffee: Brewing a New Beat in Downtown San Jose

Downtown San Jose’s San Pedro Square Market is gaining a unique addition with Playback Coffee, a new spot that blends high-quality brews with a nod to the city’s radio broadcasting past. Currently in its soft opening phase, this 5,000-square-foot coffee shop at 87 N. San Pedro St. is set to officially open its doors on Saturday, July 26.

The vision behind Playback Coffee comes from David Mulvehill, president and COO of Nuvo Hospitality, and Frank Nguyen, the founder of Academic Coffee. These two have a history that goes back nearly a decade, starting when Nguyen hosted pop-ups at Mulvehill’s Five Points Cocktail Bar. Together, they’ve crafted a space that feels uniquely tied to San Jose. The shop’s playlist spans decades, featuring everything from ‘80s and ‘90s classics to contemporary hip hop and rock. A mobile DJ station keeps the tunes spinning all day and doubles as the drink pick-up area, with plans for early-morning pop-up raves adding an extra layer of excitement.

The interior of Playback Coffee reflects its bold identity. Stereos with light features and artist murals are being added to the walls, enhancing the atmosphere. The menu builds on Academic Coffee’s reputation, serving the same expertly roasted coffee beans and matcha. After the grand opening, expect an expanded lineup of drinks, including new creations and some fan-favorite throwbacks from Academic’s seasonal menus. Open daily from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. starting July 26, this spot is designed to be more than just a coffee stop; it’s a place for the community to gather and enjoy something fun.

Academic Coffee is my favorite of many great coffee options Downtown, so I can't wait to see how this turns out.

Source: SVBJ

Savor the Flavors of Brazil: Show De Carnes Brings South American Flair to San Jose

San Jose’s dining scene is heating up with the arrival of Show De Carnes, a Brazilian steakhouse chain expanding its footprint in the South Bay. Starting with its first location in Sausalito in 2023 and a second in Palo Alto in late 2024, the chain has now doubled its presence by adding two new spots in San Jose. This growth, happening within just three months, highlights the city’s growing reputation as a hub for diverse and exciting culinary experiences.

The new West San Jose location, set to open in October, will transform a former Red Robin at 1000 El Paseo de Saratoga into a 7,900-square-foot space seating about 250 guests. Meanwhile, Downtown San Jose will welcome Show De Carnes at 167 W. San Fernando St., where it has taken over the former Taurinus Brazilian Steakhouse. Already operating under the new brand, this location will soon update its signage, fully integrating it into the chain’s vision of bringing Brazil’s gaucho traditions to California.

At Show De Carnes, the menu revolves around rodizio-style service, where servers, known as gauchos, carve an array of grilled meats tableside. Guests can also explore a self-serve salad bar packed with cold meats, vegetables, and Brazilian staples like farofa, a seasoned cassava flour with bacon, and feijoada, a hearty black bean and pork dish. Adding an unexpected twist, the salad bar includes sushi, reflecting a fusion common in Brazilian steakhouses. For dessert, options range from passionfruit mousse and açai sourced from the Amazon to classics like lava cake and cheesecake, all paired with drinks like the Caipirinha, Brazil’s iconic cocktail.

The atmosphere complements the food with green and wood tones that nod to Brazil’s natural landscapes, creating an inviting space for both locals and visitors. With these additions, San Jose now hosts four churrascarias, including Santana Row’s Fogo de Chão and Silva’s Brazilian Steakhouse on Alum Rock Avenue.

Source: SVBJ

Unmask the Magic: Symphony San Jose’s Season Opener Promises a Night of Fantasy and Music

San Jose welcomes a thrilling start to the fall with Symphony San Jose’s 24th season-opening program, MASQUERADE, on October 4 and 5, 2025. This event at the California Theatre in Downtown San Jose invites you to step into a world of fantasy and imagination. The masquerade theme weaves through an evening of three unforgettable orchestral works, blending celebration with the power of live music in a way that feels both timeless and fresh.

The program kicks off with Anna Clyne’s Masquerade, a vibrant piece that pulses with energy and captures the joy of festivity. Next, Sergei Rachmaninoff’s Rhapsody on a Theme by Paganini delivers a stunning showcase for piano, full of lush melodies and technical brilliance. The night closes with Hector Berlioz’s Symphonie Fantastique, a wild ride through love, madness, and otherworldly visions that still feels revolutionary nearly 200 years after its debut.

A major draw is the appearance of Jon Nakamatsu, a San Jose native and globally celebrated pianist. His performance promises to bring a hometown pride to the stage, making this a special moment for local music lovers. Want to get more out of the experience? Arrive early for the Music Notes session, held an hour before each concert. It’s a free, casual talk with insights, fun facts, and guest interviews, perfect for deepening your connection to the music.

For an extra dose of glamour, the October 4 opening night transforms into Masquerade Fantastique. Picture a red-carpet welcome, a VIP pre-concert reception with wine and live entertainment, and a post-concert courtyard dessert party where you can chat with conductor Nathan Aspinall, Jon Nakamatsu, and Symphony San Jose musicians. It’s all happening at the historic California Theatre. Call 408.286.2600 or email Development@symphonysanjose.org for details and reservations.

This is your chance to enjoy a night of mystery and melody in the heart of Downtown San Jose. Tickets range from $35 to $115, with youth discounts available, so grab yours and join the celebration.

Starlight Cinema Brings Outdoor Movie Magic to Downtown San Jose

Downtown San Jose transforms into a vibrant open-air theater this summer with the return of Starlight Cinema. Hosted by the San Jose Downtown Association, this free movie series invites families, friends, and neighbors to gather at St. James Park for unforgettable evenings under the stars.

Each screening offers more than just a film. Attendees can arrive early to enjoy live music, local food vendors, and lawn games, creating a festive atmosphere before the main event. Blankets and low-back chairs are encouraged for comfort, while the park’s lush green space provides an ideal setting for picnics. The lineup features family-friendly classics and crowd-pleasing blockbusters, ensuring something for all ages. Check the San Jose Downtown Association’s website for the full schedule and details.

The series runs on select summer nights, with films starting at dusk. Next up is Nacho Libre on July 13th and A Minecraft Movie on July 27th. Arriving early ensures a good spot and time to enjoy the pre-show entertainment. Parking is available nearby, and public transit options like VTA make getting to Downtown a breeze. Starlight Cinemas is free and kid-friendly.

San Jose Welcomes Trillium Senior Housing

San Jose is forging ahead with the Trillium Senior Housing project at 675 East Santa Clara Street near Downtown. This collaboration between the Santa Clara Housing Authority, Eden Housing, and Core Companies brings 64 single-bedroom units designed specifically for seniors. With a recent Notice of Exemption fast-tracking environmental approvals, this project is poised to enhance the lives of older residents while contributing to the city’s growth.

The location is a major highlight. Nestled close to Downtown San Jose and San Jose State University, Trillium Senior Apartments will connect residents to a lively mix of shops, cultural happenings, and even learning opportunities. The building’s thoughtful design features three articulated bays linked by multistory walkways, plus two courtyards that offer shared outdoor spaces. This setup fosters both privacy and a sense of community, making it an inviting home for seniors.

A firm construction start date remains pending, but curious readers can check the Santa Clara Housing Authority’s website for the latest on this project and others shaping the city’s future.

Source: SF YIMBY

PG&E Upgrades to Boost Downtown Development

PG&E is rolling out major upgrades to two vital substations in Downtown San Jose: Substation A near Diridon Station and Substation B on Coleman Avenue. These improvements are set to meet the rising energy demands from a wave of tech, housing, and commercial projects that are transforming the city. 

The work at Substation A is especially exciting. Located right by Diridon Station, this upgrade will power game-changing initiatives like the Net Zero Initiative, which focuses on energy efficiency, as well as new rail expansions like BART and electrified Caltrain service. It will also support the shift toward electric homes and vehicles. Perhaps most thrilling is its role in Google’s transit village, a massive mixed-use project near Diridon that will bring homes, offices, shops, and cultural spaces to Downtown San Jose. Meanwhile, Substation B’s enhancements will unlock about 1,000 megawatts of additional capacity, paving the way for new data centers and more power for the city’s growing needs.

These upgrades mean more than just better electricity—they’re a launchpad for San Jose’s economic rise. With a stronger grid, the city can welcome bold projects like Jay Paul Co.’s redevelopment of City View Plaza, a new neighborhood blending homes, offices, and retail in the heart of Downtown. Reliable energy could even help keep rates in check, making San Jose a more appealing place for businesses and residents alike. 

Source: The Mercury News

Tequila and Tacos: A San Jose Summer Party

This Saturday, June 28th, 55 South in Downtown San Jose will host the Tequila Barrel Pick BBQ Party, a collaboration between MACBBQ and the 55/110 private bottle club. This event celebrates the release of an exclusive Corazon Reposado Tequila, aged 22 months in a Stagg Bourbon barrel, paired with some of the best BBQ and tacos the city has to offer. From noon to 5pm, dive into a day packed with bold flavors, live music, and community vibes.

The star of the show is the Corazon Reposado Tequila, hand-picked by MACBBQ and 55/110 for its standout profile. Aged in a Stagg Bourbon barrel, this tequila brings fruity and floral notes upfront, followed by layers of honey, caramel, pineapple, and tropical fruit. It finishes with a subtle touch of slate and black pepper, offering a bright yet rich sip that bourbon and tequila fans will appreciate. Guests can taste this unique release and even grab bottles to take home, priced at $50, alongside a Sazerac Blanton’s pick for $100.

Food takes center stage with MACBBQ and Cajetas joining forces for a Mexican-inspired BBQ spread. Think smoked brisket, pork, and chicken thighs tucked into handmade serrano/jalapeño yellow corn tortillas, topped with a custom salsa made just for this event. VIP ticket holders get early entry at noon and exclusive bites like cold smoked oysters and langostino tostadas, adding a gourmet twist. Paleta Planeta’s desserts and Phin Bar’s coffee drinks round out the menu, ensuring every craving is covered.

Live DJs Scotty Fox and Jay Biz will keep the energy flowing at 55 South, a Downtown San Jose staple known for its whiskey culture and top-notch cocktails. Exclusive giveaways throughout the day add a fun surprise element. With general admission at $50 starting at 1pm and VIP at $75, tickets include seven food and drink vouchers for tacos, desserts, and coffee. The full bar will be open for additional purchases, making this a perfect way to spend a summer Saturday.

Tickets are limited, so acting fast is key. Head to Eventbrite to secure your spot for this standout celebration of San Jose’s food, drink, and community spirit. Whether you’re a tequila aficionado, a BBQ lover, or just looking for a great time, this event delivers it all in the heart of Downtown.

San Jose Pushes for More Homes

City leaders recently greenlit over $10 million in tax and fee waivers for two major housing projects, proving that San Jose is serious about getting more homes built. With high interest rates and rising costs slowing construction across the Bay Area, this incentive program is a lifeline for developers and a big win for residents eager for more housing options.

The two projects cashing in on these perks are the Coyote Creek Urban Village at 2620 Seely Avenue and Federal Realty’s development at 358 Hatton Street near Santana Row. Together, they’re saving developers more than $10 million, with Coyote Creek slashing over $6 million and Federal Realty pocketing nearly $4.5 million in savings. This will move forward a projected 1,278 new units, including 64 affordable ones, bringing much-needed homes to both market-rate buyers and lower-income families.

The city’s incentive program offers a 50% cut in taxes and fees for projects that lock in permits by the end of this year, with a second phase kicking in 2026 offering a 25% reduction. It’s a practical approach that’s already jumpstarted other developments, like The Hanover Co.’s 345-unit project and The Aquino apartment building in Downtown San Jose. With only 2,700 permits issued last year against a state goal of 62,200 new units by 2031.

Source: The Mercury News