Lasers and Bad Bunny Beats Create Magic at The Tech Interactive

San Jose delivers an electrifying summer highlight through the Dome Series at The Tech Interactive. This July, the Global Beats theme brings a laser light show set to the music of Bad Bunny right into the heart of Downtown San Jose.

The IMAX Dome Theater becomes a vibrant 360-degree spectacle where pulsing lights sync perfectly with reggaeton rhythms and hits from the Puerto Rican artist. Attendees enjoy surround sound that immerses everyone in the energy of tracks like Callaita and I Like It, turning a regular evening into an unforgettable visual and auditory adventure.

The event forms part of a broader lineup that combines technology and entertainment in creative ways. Visitors combine a museum visit with the show for a full day of discovery, then settle into the dome for the main event. Easy access via transit and parking validation at nearby garages makes attendance convenient.

Purchase tickets at https://tickets.thetech.org/events/019bbec2-853f-d728-371f-ebc8007bd3c8

Silicon Valley International Invention Festival Invites Global Creators to the Heart of Innovation

Inventors, entrepreneurs, and curious minds from more than 30 countries will gather in Santa Clara this August for the Silicon Valley International Invention Festival. The three-day showcase at the Santa Clara Convention Center highlights groundbreaking ideas and transformative technologies from around the world while offering direct access to the people behind them.

Free visitor admission removes barriers and opens the event to students, professionals, investors, and anyone interested in what comes next. Attendees can wander through exhibits, engage with creators, and explore emerging solutions in an environment built for discovery and conversation. The format encourages both casual exploration and purposeful networking across borders and disciplines.

Santa Clara sits at the core of a region long defined by its capacity to turn bold concepts into reality. This festival extends that tradition by welcoming international perspectives and creating space for collaboration that might otherwise happen far from home. It reinforces the area’s role as a place where ideas from every corner of the globe find fertile ground.

Organized by the International Federation of Inventors Associations, the program spans multiple days with hours designed for broad participation. Programming suits all ages and includes opportunities to see practical inventions alongside forward-looking concepts. It stands as a clear reminder that the drive to invent and improve remains a powerful force here, drawing talent and attention that continue to shape the future.

The festival runs August 14 through 16 with free parking and doors open at 10am each morning.

The Domes Brings a Striking Immersive Venue to Downtown San Jose

A towering white geodesic dome near San Pedro Square has drawn puzzled glances from passersby in Downtown San Jose over recent weeks. The 60-foot structure on the corner of Post and San Pedro streets now serves as The Domes, an immersive event space designed for 360-degree experiences through high-resolution projection and spatial audio. Its recent ribbon cutting marked the start of operations in a space that feels like a scaled-down version of The Sphere in Vegas.

Programming inside the dome already includes watch parties for major sporting events alongside corporate functions, art installations, and social gatherings. The venue operates under a multiyear lease with plans in motion to add a second dome through fundraising and a third further down the line. This setup creates flexibility for everything from large-scale viewings to intimate creative showcases while maintaining high technical standards.

Founder Chris Lawes launched the underlying technology and immersive theater work in San Jose back in 2015 before expanding elsewhere. Bringing the concept home as a permanent fixture reflects a desire to create a shared community asset rather than a one-off spectacle. The space aims to uplift visitors and serve as a hub where local residents, businesses, and nonprofits can amplify messages and host meaningful events.

City leaders have highlighted the practical appeal and innovative edge. The setup allows for a wide range of gatherings without requiring travel to distant destinations, and early events such as the Silicon Valley Chamber of Commerce celebration demonstrated its immediate utility. With its striking presence and adaptable interior, The Domes will become the latest entertainment fixture in the heart of Downtown San Jose.

For event tickets (currently featuring World Cup watch parties), head over here.

San Jose World Cup Watch Parties Surpass All Expectations at San Pedro Square

San Jose turned San Pedro Square into a global gathering spot during the World Cup with watch parties that pulled in far more fans than anyone anticipated. Hundreds of thousands of soccer enthusiasts filled the space in Downtown San Jose, creating an electric atmosphere that highlighted the city’s growing reputation for hosting large-scale public events.

The turnout demonstrated strong community interest in international sports and the appeal of shared viewing experiences in the heart of the city. Fans from various backgrounds came together to cheer, celebrate goals, and enjoy the vibe that only a packed public square can provide.

350,000 visitors were expected for the entire World Cup series, but it now appears that number will be exceeded by a great margin. The San Pedro Square area is quickly making adjustments to address the massive crowds, including easier bar access and extra screens. It's also music to my ears when hearing visitors from other countries telling others to go to San Jose to watch the games instead of SF. Check out the full video at the source link.

Source: Fox KTVU

Exotic Cars Meet Morning Pastries at Santana Row

The Rebirth Edition of Cars & Croissants on The Row will arrive at Santana Row on June 28. From 9am to noon, an impressive collection of supercars, luxury vehicles, and exotic marques will line up for close inspection under the open sky.

Organized once more by 100|OCT, the event will revive a tradition that pairs mechanical artistry with the pleasures of a proper breakfast. Attendees will wander among vehicles that represent the pinnacle of design and performance while the scent of fresh croissants drifts from nearby tables and cafes.

The event is free to attend and if you have an exotic car you'd like to showcase, you can learn more about reserving a space over here.

Greyhound Station Gains Fresh Purpose as San Pedro South Entertainment District Emerges in Downtown San Jose

A stretch of underused land in Downtown San Jose has gained a clear purpose through the vision of local entrepreneur Mauricio Mejia. He has launched San Pedro South to turn the former Greyhound station and a nearby property into active entertainment destinations. The effort comes as developers hold the sites for future residential projects that face financing hurdles in the current market.

At the Greyhound location, crews have removed graffiti and refreshed the paint in preparation for its role as The Greyhound. This open-air venue will accommodate concerts, festivals, watch parties for major events, cultural celebrations, and community gatherings. The setup positions the space to welcome crowds during the FIFA World Cup period.

Across the street at the corner of Post Street and South San Pedro Street, The Domes will feature an interactive structure inspired by the Las Vegas Sphere. This second venue will deliver immersive experiences through its distinctive dome design. The investment for this element alone reaches three million dollars, underscoring the scale of the commitment.

Mejia brings experience from operating nightclubs and contributing to the Urban Vibrancy Institute, known for its energetic block parties across the city. He has secured partnerships with local businesses including Selva Tequila Bar, Myth Taverna & Lounge, Chico de Mayo Street Tacos, and The Prestige Venue. These collaborations will support hospitality needs across the district while the properties await their longer-term redevelopment.

By activating these spaces now, the project reduces the burden of ongoing property taxes and maintenance for the owners while injecting fresh activity into the surrounding blocks. Mejia has expressed confidence rooted in his affection for the downtown core. Initiatives like this one strengthen the appeal of Downtown San Jose as a place where people gather, celebrate, and connect, advancing the city's standing as a dynamic urban center.

Source: SVBJ

Africa Day San Jose Lights Up St. James Park with Music and Culture

St. James Park in Downtown San Jose hosts Africa Day this Sunday evening. From 4:30 to 8 p.m., AFRIICIONADO organizes a celebration that brings together live music, family-friendly activities, and the tastes of African cultures in an open park setting.

The lineup features Onye & The Messengers on Afrobeat and Kava Jah & The Remedy Reggae Band. Their performances create space for dancing and connection on the lawn as the Levitt Pavilion opens its summer series with this cultural event.

Attendees also enjoy arts and storytelling sessions open to all ages, a youth soccer showcase, food vendors, and community booths. The relaxed atmosphere encourages exploration and enjoyment of the rich traditions represented.

For tickets and additional details, check the Eventbrite listing for Africa Day San Jose.

Claude VonStroke to Headline Open-Air Day Party at Circle of Palms Plaza in Downtown San Jose

Music fans throughout the Bay Area can circle June 13 on their calendars when Claude VonStroke headlines a day-to-night open-air gathering at Circle of Palms Plaza. The event stretches from 2:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. and places one of house music’s most recognizable names inside one of Downtown San Jose’s most recognizable public spaces.

It’s a Journey, the team behind the production, has shaped the afternoon and evening around strong sound, thoughtful lighting, and quiet references to the plaza’s own story. Food trucks and a full bar will keep everyone fueled while support artists Mike Kerrigan, N808, JLittle, Santino b2b Logan Conners, and Jasper Crenshaw warm the crowd for the headliner.

Claude VonStroke has spent more than ten years shaping modern tech house both behind the decks and as an A&R force who helped launch careers for artists such as Fisher and Eats Everything. His set will serve as the centerpiece of an experience built for movement and memory rather than spectacle alone.

Adding another dimension, acclaimed artist Brooke Einbender will have her suspended Gaiascope sculptures on site through mid-August. Each interactive steel installation invites passersby to change colors, lighting sequences, and video playback from nearby pedestals, turning the plaza into a living canvas that rewards curiosity.

The entire afternoon-to-evening program will spotlight Downtown San Jose’s rising energy by folding live music, hospitality, public art, and open civic space into one seamless afternoon.

For more info and tickets, head over here.

Makers Market Expands to Two Days at Santana Row for Mother's Day Weekend

Santana Row transforms into a showcase of regional talent this weekend as the Makers Market Local Artist Street Fair stretches across both Saturday and Sunday. Hours run from eleven in the morning until six in the evening at 378 Santana Row.

More than ninety five local artists and makers will line the tree shaded promenade with tables full of distinctive work. Visitors encounter handmade jewelry that feels personal, ceramics and pottery fired with intention, living plants and decor pieces, original paintings and prints, candles, woodworking, handbags, hats, stationery, pet accessories, apparel and dozens of other categories all produced in the Bay Area.

The Makers Market storefront in Suite 1120 remains open throughout, offering hundreds more American made products inside. Just outside the entrance, the DIY candle bar supplies everything needed to pour a custom non toxic soy and beeswax candle, turning a simple visit into a hands on keepsake experience.

The street fair returns every second Saturday of the month.

Game Plan for Opportunity: CEO San Jose Opens Its Doors for Fair Chance Month

On April 30 the Center for Employment Opportunities San Jose will host an Open House themed “Game Plan for Opportunity” to mark Fair Chance Month and demonstrate how targeted programs clear paths for justice-impacted residents to build stable careers.

The evening at 521 Parrott Street runs from 4:30 to 7:00 PM and features facility tours that let visitors see training rooms in action. Program participants and alumni will share personal accounts of moving from incarceration through life-skills development and transitional employment into full-time positions. Local employers and partners will join discussions on the practical benefits of fair-chance hiring practices.

CEO operates a model proven across 30 cities in 12 states. Daily-pay transitional jobs provide immediate structure and income while job coaching and advanced training prepare individuals for roles in high-demand fields. San Jose’s location benefits from this framework tailored to the area’s dynamic job market, delivering measurable gains in employment retention and community stability.

Plan to attend if your work or interests align with building stronger economic pathways. The open format encourages direct conversations that often spark new collaborations right on the spot.

For additional information, visit ceoworks.org.

San Pedro Square Market Transforms into World Cup Central for San Jose This Summer

San Pedro Square Market will transform into the ultimate destination for soccer fans when it hosts live broadcasts of all 104 FIFA World Cup matches. Soccer Celebration brings a full month of excitement to Downtown San Jose from June 11 through July 19, complete with interactive fan zones, creative food and drink specials, and engaging activities the whole family can enjoy.

Downtown San Jose will come alive with the world's top teams competing on massive screens while fans mingle in the heart of the city. This activation expands on the massive turnouts from recent Super Bowl and March Madness events, setting the stage for what could become the largest crowds yet at the square.

Forecasts point to roughly $555 million in economic activity along with around 260,000 visitors streaming into the region. These figures show how events like this strengthen San Jose's growing reputation for memorable urban experiences.

The entertainment zone designation allows fans to savor the atmosphere with outdoor beverage service in approved areas. Local businesses will seize the moment to deliver standout activations that draw people in and keep the energy high.

Make plans now to join the festivities and see for yourself how Downtown San Jose pulses as the heart of World Cup celebrations in the Bay Area.

Source: SVBJ

San Jose Streets Come Alive During Viva CalleSJ Adventures

San Jose residents and visitors alike discover new sides of San Jose when Viva CalleSJ takes over. This free program will close select streets to vehicles and open them wide for walking, biking, skating, and rolling through the heart of the Eastside.

Routes wind from Mexican Heritage Plaza out to Alum Rock Village and link Cimarron Park with Fernish Park, where explorers encounter side quests filled with local spots, neighborly chats, and festive energy that turns pavement into shared public space.

Over the past decade Viva CalleSJ has grown into a cherished tradition, drawing thousands together to celebrate movement and connection while strengthening community bonds across San Jose. With the next event arriving soon on April 19, now stands as the ideal moment to join in. Lace up those sneakers, dust off the bicycle, or bring the whole family to experience San Jose at its most welcoming and dynamic.

For more information, head over here.

Earth Day Celebration Brings Family Fun and Coyote Valley Insights to Santana Row

Santana Row will team up with the Open Space Authority for a free Earth Day celebration on Sunday, April 19, 2026. The event will run from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. and fill the afternoon with engaging activities at this favorite San Jose destination.

Lawn games will keep participants active while creative crafts spark fun for all ages. Children can enjoy complimentary face painting as nature-themed music adds to the vibrant atmosphere.

A special display will showcase plans for habitat restoration, public access, and sustainable agriculture in Coyote Valley. Team members from the Coyote Valley Conservation Areas Master Plan will remain available to explain the designs and answer questions.

Downtown San Jose Welcomes Foodies Fandom Night Market to Plaza de Cesar Chavez

Plaza de Cesar Chavez in Downtown San Jose stands will host an exciting celebration of street food culture this weekend. The Foodies Fandom Night Market will arrive April 10 through 12 in conjunction with FandomCon weekend. Local vendors will fill the space with global street eats, tempting desserts, artisan booths, and unique activations that promise something for every palate.

Free admission will open the doors wide for food enthusiasts to sample a diverse array of flavors. Attendees will wander past stalls showcasing multicultural dishes and innovative creations while discovering giveaways and a silent disco.

To make the most of the three days, plan for hours running from 3PM to 10PM on Friday and 1PM to 10PM on Saturday and Sunday. Bring an appetite and comfortable shoes to fully embrace the experience.

For more info, head over here.

Easter Sunday Delivers Festive Experiences Across San Jose

Easter Sunday delivers festive experiences that bring families and friends together across San Jose.

Guests can savor a memorable brunch at the Hayes Mansion where an exclusive menu includes cracked crab legs, a prime rib carving station, and chef-selected decadent desserts. Little ones will hunt for eggs on the lawn in the historic surroundings.

Downtown San Jose will host the Soulful Sunday Easter Brunch at Jackie's Place with two sessions offering all-you-can-enjoy buffet items like fried chicken, shrimp and grits, and candied yams accompanied by bottomless mimosas and R&B sounds from a DJ.

Local churches such as VIVE San Jose will open their doors for services followed by a free post-service carnival featuring a petting zoo, bounce houses, and food trucks that extend the celebration into the afternoon.

These events highlight how San Jose transforms Easter Day into a vibrant celebration of community and tradition.

For tickets and more information:

• Hayes Mansion Easter Brunch & Egg Hunt: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/2026-easter-brunch-at-the-hayes-mansion-tickets-1978479220608
• Soulful Sunday Easter Brunch at Jackie's Place: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/soulful-sunday-easter-brunch-2026-tickets-1985618515431
• VIVE San Jose Easter Services & Carnival: https://www.vivechurch.org/easter-san-jose

San Jose Cat Day Returns This Weekend With Feline Fun Across Downtown

Cat enthusiasts across the South Bay will find their perfect gathering spot this Saturday in Downtown San Jose. The second annual San Jose Cat Day will take over Paseo de San Antonio and the Post Street area from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. as a free celebration packed with vendors, kittens, and creative activities.

More than 55 local makers, artists, and small businesses will set up shop at the Paseo de San Antonio with cat-themed goods ranging from artwork to one-of-a-kind accessories. Early arrivals among the first 1,000 guests will pick up a special San Jose Cat Day giveaway while supplies last.

Near the MOMENT Post Street storefronts, the Kitten Lounge from Mini Cat Town will let visitors meet adoptable kittens during 15-minute sessions. Craft stations will offer hands-on experiences including friendship bracelet making and cat-themed coloring, while food vendors will serve up themed treats and desserts. Head over to experience the fun firsthand and support local businesses in Downtown San Jose.

Create Lasting Easter Memories with the Easter Bunny at Santana Row

Santana Row will host a free family event featuring photos with the Easter Bunny. Mark Saturday, March 28, 2026, on the calendar for the noon to 3 p.m. appearance at Oak Tree Lounge, located just outside Blue Bottle Coffee. Everyone can drop by without reservations to capture those special moments in this prime San Jose destination.

Children will light up upon meeting the Bunny while parents collect photos full of Easter joy. The no-cost opportunity allows groups of all sizes to participate and build new traditions.

Spring Fling Wine Stroll Awaits at Santana Row

The Spring Fling Wine Stroll takes place on Thursday, March 19th from 5-7:30pm across Santana Row. Attendees will move between tasting stations set up at shops and restaurants throughout the row, sampling selections that range from local California vintages to international favorites, accompanied by lite bites.

Expect to encounter selections from producers such as Cuda Ridge Wines, JMC Cellars, Rosa Fierro Cellars, Sakura Winery, and Steven Kent Winery. The evening unfolds with live music drifting through the plazas, and exclusive shopping perks.

A share of the $50 ticket price goes toward Hunger at Home, aiding meal distribution in the community. For tickets and additional information, visit https://santanarow.com/event/spring-fling-wine-stroll/

Santana Row Local Artisans Featured at Monthly Makers Market

San Jose gains another fantastic draw for those who love supporting local talent. The Makers Market turns Santana Row into a creative hub on the second Saturday of every month from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. The next one is this Saturday, March 14th.

Attendees will discover a wide selection of handmade items crafted by more than 60 local makers. Elegant jewelry, unique ceramics, apparel, leather goods, and plants fill the stalls and keep the experience fresh and inspiring. Live music adds to the energy as you enjoy food and drinks in a relaxed sip-and-stroll format.

Families and pet owners receive a warm invitation to join the fun at this free event. The open layout in the park creates an ideal setting for everyone to explore comfortably while connecting with the makers behind the products.

After the outdoor market, continue the adventure at the adjacent Makers Market store, which features even more selections from over 100 creators.

Holi Fest 2026 Brings Vibrant Festival of Colors to Discovery Meadow

San Jose will welcome an unforgettable burst of color when Holi Fest returns to Discovery Meadow on March 7. This largest Festival of Colors in Downtown San Jose runs from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. at 180 Woz Way and delivers nonstop excitement organized by the Association of Indo Americans.

Attendees will dance to energetic Bollywood music while tossing traditional gulal powder in every shade imaginable. Food booths will serve authentic Indian foods and live performances will keep the energy high across the park all afternoon.

Families will appreciate free admission for children under seven along with complimentary thandai (cold Indian drink made from nuts, spices, rose water, milk, and sugar) for the first thousand guests. The event keeps expanding year after year and shows exactly how San Jose embraces cultural traditions that unite everyone.