Celebrating a Decade of Inclusive Play at San Jose’s Rotary PlayGarden

San Jose’s Rotary PlayGarden turns ten this month, and the Guadalupe River Park Conservancy is hosting a vibrant celebration on September 13, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM at 438 Coleman Avenue. This milestone marks a decade of joy, connection, and accessibility for children and families of all abilities. Since opening in 2015, this unique playground has welcomed over a million visitors, offering a space where everyone can play side by side. The event promises a day filled with family-friendly activities, music, and heartfelt tributes to the community visionaries who made this inclusive haven possible.

The Rotary PlayGarden stands out as San Jose’s first fully accessible playground, a gift from the Rotary Club of San Jose to mark their centennial. Designed with ramps, sensory-rich features, and spaces for children with diverse needs, it ensures that no one is left out. Families can explore slides, swings, climbing structures, and a sand play area, all crafted to foster shared experiences. The playground’s thoughtful design extends to parents and caregivers, with seating and clear sightlines for supervision, making it a welcoming spot for all.

On the day of the celebration, expect a lineup that brings the community together. Local leaders and elected officials will share remarks, honoring the Rotary Club’s legacy and the volunteers who keep the PlayGarden thriving. A live performance by a local artist will set a festive tone, followed by family yoga and a bilingual Beginner Environmental Explorers program to spark curiosity about nature. Crafting tables and lawn games will keep kids and adults engaged throughout the event, creating memories in the heart of Guadalupe River Park. Visitors can also explore the nearby Visitor & Education Center to learn more about the park’s wildlife and history.

The Guadalupe River Park Conservancy continues to maintain this cherished space through volunteer efforts and community support. Their work ensures the PlayGarden remains a safe, clean, and vibrant destination for years to come. Mark your calendars for September 13 and join the celebration to experience the joy of this remarkable playground and the spirit of San Jose.

For more info, head over here.

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

Viva CalleSJ Marks 10 Years with Las Calles

San Jose invites everyone to join the 10th anniversary of Viva CalleSJ on September 7, 2025, from 10am to 3pm, transforming nearly 10 miles of streets into car-free spaces for walking, biking, skating, and exploring. Named Las Calles, this edition combines favorite routes from the past decade, weaving through eclectic neighborhoods to foster community connections and active lifestyles. Participants of all ages and abilities can start anywhere along the path, moving at their own pace to discover local gems and enjoy the city's vibrant energy.

Activity hubs at the Municipal Rose Garden, Watson Park, and Willow Glen at Lincoln and Minnesota avenues serve as focal points with food trucks, live entertainment, and free minor bike repairs. Expect surprises like BMX shows, cultural displays, and unique sights such as vintage penny farthings or creative bike setups that add to the fun. The event encourages safe participation with rules like wearing helmets for those under 18, staying aware of surroundings, and using public transit like VTA to reach the route easily.

This milestone highlights San Jose's commitment to health, local businesses, and inclusive recreation, drawing over 100,000 people in past years to build lasting memories. Viva CalleSJ opens streets to wheelchairs, scooters, and other mobility aids, ensuring broad access while promoting sustainability.

Experience the Bold Fusion of Inebria me at MACLA

San Jose thrives as a hub for innovative arts that reflect its diverse communities, and MACLA stands at the forefront of this movement. The upcoming experimental opera Inebria me by San Cha promises to deliver a unique blend of sounds and stories that capture the essence of cultural exploration. Scheduled for September 25 through 27, 2025, at MACLA’s Castellano Playhouse in Downtown San Jose, this production invites audiences to immerse themselves in a narrative drawn from personal and collective experiences.

San Cha, a queer Latinx musician and performance artist, weaves together ranchera, cumbia, mariachi, punk, classical, and electro elements into a live music score. The work draws from rural Mexican immigrant life, Catholic choir traditions, Bay Area drag performance, and cross-border identity to explore themes of colonization, heartbreak, liberation, and healing. Enhanced by innovative visual design, Inebria me celebrates chosen family, self-discovery, and the power of hope, making it a compelling addition to San Jose's dynamic cultural landscape.

Attending events like this at MACLA highlights the city's commitment to fostering artistic expression that resonates on a deep level. With its location at 510 S. First Street, MACLA continues to serve as a vital space for Latino American art and culture. Those interested can register through inebriame.eventbrite.com to secure a spot and join in this celebration of creativity that strengthens San Jose's reputation as a center for groundbreaking performances.

Inaugural Taste The Row Brings Global Flavors to Santana Row This September

San Jose continues to shine as a hub for diverse culinary experiences, and the upcoming Taste The Row event at Santana Row exemplifies this perfectly. From September 19 to 28, 2025, fourteen restaurants will offer exclusive $50 pre-fixe dinners, showcasing limited-time menus that draw from cuisines around the world. This ten-day celebration invites locals and visitors alike to explore new tastes in one of San Jose's most vibrant shopping and dining districts, fostering a sense of community through shared meals.

Each participating spot, including favorites like Dumpling Time, LB Steak, and Fogo de Chao, has crafted special dishes for the occasion. Diners can expect seasonal surprises alongside signature offerings, from decadent desserts to curated cocktails that complement the meals. The alfresco setting enhances the appeal, allowing for relaxed evenings amid the lively atmosphere of Santana Row, where people-watching adds an extra layer of enjoyment.

With options spanning Mediterranean, Japanese, Brazilian, and more through eateries such as Meso Mediterranean, Ozumo, and Augustine, the event caters to a wide range of palates. Reservations fill up quickly, so planning ahead ensures a spot at these sought-after tables. To see some of the menus, head over here.

Discover South First Fridays: San Jose's Vibrant Art Walk in the SoFA District

San Jose comes alive on the first Friday of each month with South First Fridays, a celebration of creativity that draws locals and visitors into the heart of the SoFA District. Galleries and museums open their doors wide, showcasing fresh exhibitions from talented artists who capture the essence of innovation and culture. From paintings that explore human connections to immersive installations reflecting diverse heritages, the event offers a chance to engage directly with the works and their creators. This gathering highlights the city's commitment to fostering artistic expression, turning ordinary evenings into memorable explorations of visual storytelling.

The STREET MRKT adds an energetic layer to the experience, transforming South First Street into an open-air marketplace where independent artists display and sell their unique pieces. Food trucks serve up local flavors, while live DJ sets keep the atmosphere lively into the night. Venues like the San Jose Institute of Contemporary Art and MACLA feature standout shows, including explorations of cultural roots through folk-inspired art and textile innovations. These elements combine to create a family-friendly space that encourages everyone to support the creative community and discover new favorites.

Beyond the core area, the event extends to the Historic District and Martha Gardens District, with additional spots hosting photography tributes and poetry performances. San Jose's art scene thrives through such initiatives, building connections among residents and reinforcing the city's role as a hub for cultural growth. Attending South First Fridays not only provides entertainment but also contributes to the ongoing vitality of Downtown San Jose, where every visit helps nurture a brighter future for the arts.

The next South First Friday is... today! Come on down from 5-9pm. The Street Market runs from 5pm-10pm. Admission is free and it is family friendly.

Source: South FIRST FRIDAYS

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.

Tres Vinos 2025: A Cultural Celebration in the Heart of San Jose

San Jose is gearing up for an incredible night of culture and community with the 26th annual Tres Vinos fundraising dinner, happening Saturday, August 16, 2025, at the Mexican Heritage Plaza in East San Jose. This event promises a vibrant mix of wine tasting, delicious food, and live entertainment, with a standout performance by Tito Puente Jr.

The Mexican Heritage Plaza, known locally as La Plaza, has been a vital hub for East San Jose for over two decades. Tres Vinos raises funds to fuel La Plaza’s mission of championing community heritage through arts and culture. This year, the money will support their 2024–2027 Strategic Plan, which tackles big goals like preventing displacement and reinforcing neighborhood identity. One exciting piece of this vision is the push to earn state recognition for La Avenida Cultural District, a first for San Jose.

Imagine an evening filled with the rhythms of Tito Puente Jr., the taste of local wines, and the warmth of a community coming together. Tres Vinos isn’t just about enjoyment; it’s about investing in San Jose’s future. By attending, you’re helping preserve the traditions that make this city special and ensuring East San Jose remains a place where culture and identity flourish.

Ready to join the fun and make a difference? Grab your tickets now for Tres Vinos 2025. Every sip and every dollar raised helps La Plaza continue its work, strengthening San Jose one celebration at a time. 

Celebrate Mexican Heritage at San Jose's Fiesta del Mariachi

San Jose transforms into a vibrant celebration of Mexican culture on Saturday, July 26, 2025, with the fourth annual Fiesta del Mariachi at the Mexican Heritage Plaza. This family-friendly event brings together music, dance, artisan goods, and delicious food for an unforgettable experience. It’s a chance to immerse yourself in the rich traditions and lively community that make San Jose so special.

The lineup features the Grammy-winning Mariachi Los Camperos, a legendary group founded in 1961 by Nati Cano, known for their soulful performances from albums like Amor, Dolor y Lágrimas. Joining them are Mariachi Bonitas, an all-female ensemble breaking barriers in the genre, Mariachi San José, showcasing student talent from San Jose State University, and Mariachi Internacional Tapatio, delivering authentic Jalisco flair. The stage comes alive with Los Lupeños de San José, whose regional dances tell Mexico’s stories through movement and color.

Beyond the performances, explore a variety of hand-crafted goods from local artisans, perfect for finding unique treasures. Savor mouthwatering dishes prepared by small-business chefs and cool off with refreshing drinks, all while mariachi melodies fill the air. It’s a full day of enjoyment for all ages, blending culture and community in the heart of East San Jose.

Event Details:

• Date: Saturday, July 26, 2025

• Time: 5:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.

• Location: Mexican Heritage Plaza, 1700 Alum Rock Avenue, San Jose, CA 95116

• Tickets: $60 Premium Adult (3+), $40 General Admission (3+)

Make plans to join this celebration of heritage and togetherness. The Fiesta del Mariachi highlights the best of San Jose’s cultural landscape.

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.

Celebrate San Jose's Spirit at the 2025 Rose, White & Blue Parade

San Jose is gearing up for one of its most cherished traditions: the Rose, White & Blue Parade. Set for July 4, 2025, along The Alameda, this historic event celebrates our city’s diversity, public spirit, and rich floral and agricultural heritage. Whether you’re a longtime resident or new to the area, this is your chance to experience the heart and soul of San Jose in a vibrant, community-driven celebration.

The parade has deep roots in San Jose’s history. It draws inspiration from the Carnival of Roses in 1896 and the Fiesta de Las Rosas in the 1920s, both of which honored the area’s floral legacy. Relaunched in 2008, the modern Rose, White & Blue Parade has grown into a major gathering, welcoming over 60,000 attendees in recent years. It’s a powerful reflection of our city’s past and a showcase of the values that continue to shape its future.

On July 4th, the streets will come alive starting at 10am as the parade winds through the Shasta/Hanchett and Rose Garden neighborhoods near Lincoln High School. You’ll see classic cars, bands, dance groups, and community troupes decked out in red, white, and blue. Afterward, the festival runs from 11 am to 2 pm at the corner of Shasta Ave. and The Alameda. Expect Lucha Libre matches, a creative kids zone, face painting, games, free book giveaways, local vendors, food trucks, and live entertainment. Sports fans can also enjoy activations by BayFC, NBC Bay Area, Telemundo48, and the San Jose Sharks.

This parade is more than a single day of fun. It’s a celebration of San Jose’s unique identity, bringing people together to honor our past and build a stronger community. Mark your calendars for July 4th, gather your friends and family, and come experience the energy and pride of our city at its best.

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.

Pet Party: A Celebration of Pets and Community in San Jose

San Jose is gearing up to host a one-of-a-kind event that celebrates the love we have for our furry, feathery, and scaly companions. The Pet Party, organized by MOMENT, is coming to town, bringing with it a vibrant mix of creativity, community, and pet-centric fun. This event highlights the unique spirit of San Jose, showcasing local talent and fostering connections among animal lovers.

The Pet Party features over 20 makers, artists, and small businesses, each offering their own pet-inspired creations. Expect to find a variety of art, accessories, and goods tailored to pet enthusiasts. Attendees can enjoy interactive experiences like a pet portrait photo booth by @y2kglamshotz and live pet commissions drawn by @joiecreative. Live music from @christianfrancisco.mp3 will fill the air, keeping the energy high throughout the day.

Mark your calendars for Saturday, June 14th, from 12 PM to 5 PM. The event takes place at MOMENT San Pedro Square, and the first 100 visitors will receive a special 5” x 7" art print featuring the event’s poster artwork—a perfect memento for pet lovers. This gathering offers a chance to not only indulge in your passion for pets but also support the talented individuals and businesses that make San Jose’s local scene so dynamic.

Downtown San Jose Comes Alive with the 42nd Fountain Blues & Brews Festival

Get ready for a weekend packed with music, flavor, and fun in the heart of Downtown San Jose! The 42nd Fountain Blues & Brews Festival is hitting Plaza de César Chavez on June 14 and 15, marking its expansion to two full days of celebration. As Northern California’s longest-running blues festival, this event brings together 16 incredible acts, 40 craft beers, 12 food vendors, and over 20 artisans. 

The music lineup promises something special. Headliners Christone “Kingfish” Ingram and Walter Trout will take the stage, delivering performances that blend blues with rock and soul. With 16 acts in total, the variety keeps the energy high all weekend long. Families can also enjoy the Musical Instrument Petting Zoo, where kids (and adults!) can try out different instruments. It’s a hands-on way to connect with music and make memories together.

Food and drink options add even more to the experience. Choose from 40 craft beers poured by local and regional breweries, ranging from crisp lagers to bold IPAs. Pair your pick with delicious eats from 12 food vendors serving up BBQ, tacos, burgers, and sweet treats like pies and funnel cakes. Plus, over 20 artisans will be on hand with unique crafts, perfect for browsing or picking up a keepsake while you soak in the Downtown vibe.

For 42 years, this festival has been a cornerstone of San Jose’s community spirit. It’s more than just a good time; it’s a tradition that celebrates our city’s love for music, food, and togetherness. Held in the lively setting of Downtown San Jose, it’s a chance to see why this area shines as a hub of culture and creativity.

Don’t miss out on June 14 and 15 at Plaza de César Chavez. Grab your tickets now at fountainblues.com and join us for a weekend that captures the best of San Jose.

Magical Creatures Take Over Downtown San Jose

Get ready for something extraordinary at the 35th San Jose Jazz Summer Fest this August. Alongside the soulful sounds of jazz, blues, and global rhythms, Downtown San Jose will host eight massive Alebrijes sculptures. These fantastical, 20- to 22-foot-tall creations will pop up across the festival grounds and stay on display in and around Plaza de Cesar Chavez Park through September 28. Illuminated by vibrant LED lights, they’ll transform the city into a glowing wonderland each night, blending art and magic in a way you won’t want to miss.

Alebrijes carry a rich story. They began in the 1930s with Mexico City artist Pedro Linares López, who dreamed of wild, hybrid creatures and brought them to life with papier-mâché. Later, artisans in Oaxaca carved them from copal wood, painting them in bold, intricate designs. Today, these sculptures stand as a vibrant piece of Mexican heritage, and San Jose gets to experience them up close. Each piece features a QR code, letting you uncover the tales and artists behind these towering works, from a lion-bull mashup to a winged cat.

This exhibition has already wowed crowds in France and Paris back in 2019, and after a pandemic delay, it’s hitting the U.S. with San Jose as a highlight. The timing aligns perfectly with the Jazz Summer Fest, adding a stunning visual layer to the music. Even after the festival ends, free community events will keep the Alebrijes alive in Downtown San Jose, inviting everyone to connect with this unique art form. It’s a chance to see something rare and beautiful in the heart of our city.

ARRL Field Day in San Jose

Ham radio operators are preparing to take to the airwaves for ARRL Field Day, a nationwide event happening June 28-29. This annual showcase of amateur radio has been uniting enthusiasts since 1933, and it’s a fantastic opportunity for our community to witness the power of wireless communication (which was mostly invented in San Jose). The San Jose Radio Amateur Civil Emergency Service (RACES) will be out in full force, setting up temporary stations to demonstrate how ham radio connects people across borders and keeps communication alive when it’s needed most.

Head over to Noble Park at 3311 Noble Ave on Saturday from 11am to 7pm to see San Jose RACES in action. They’ll be showcasing their skills with portable setups, some powered by alternative energy sources like solar panels, batteries, and generators. Beyond the park, other local hams will be joining in from their homes and backyards. It’s a chance to meet operators of all ages—some as young as 9, others over 100.

With earthquakes and wildfires always a possibility here, ham radio operators stand ready to step up when cell towers and internet lines go down. These volunteers can set up a station almost anywhere in minutes, using a simple wire antenna and a power source to reach out and support the community. Events like Field Day highlight why San Jose is a place where innovation and resilience go hand in hand.

Music in the Square Returns to Evergreen Village Square!

Summer is nearly upon us, and San Jose is gearing up for an unforgettable season with the return of the Music in the Square Summer Series at Evergreen Village Square! Kicking off on June 6, 2025, this free, family-friendly concert series will bring the community together every Friday evening through August 29 (with a brief pause on July 4th). Presented by Councilmember Domingo Candelas, the series offers a vibrant lineup of talented bands and musicians, setting the stage for a summer filled with rhythm, connection, and local pride.

The series launches with East Side Funk, a beloved local act known for their irresistible jazz-funk grooves. Led by veteran composer Bobby Valderrama, this band has a reputation for lighting up stages across Northern California, and they’re ready to get the crowd moving. On June 13, Classic Rewind steps up with their high-energy classic rock covers, ensuring the second week keeps the energy soaring. With a fresh musical experience every Friday, there’s something to delight every ear in this diverse lineup.

Evergreen Village Square businesses will join the fun with special promotions and offers, giving attendees a chance to support local while soaking in the summer vibes. Mark your calendars and get ready to enjoy summer nights filled with live music and good company! 

Full Summer Lineup

6/6 - East Side Funk

6/13 - Classic Rewind

6/20 - Cadillac Jack

6/27 - Sonic Addiction

7/11 - Salsa Night

7/18 - Eastside Funk

7/25 - Latin Remix

8/1 - Classic Rewind

8/8 - Los Amigos

8/15 - Bollywood Night

8/22 - Saborsito

8/29 - Cadillac Jack

Sip and Stroll - Willow Glen Beer Walk '25

The Willow Glen Beer Walk '25 is coming to Downtown Willow Glen on Saturday, June 14th, from 2 to 5 pm! This event promises a perfect blend of craft beer and a chance to explore one of San Jose’s most charming neighborhoods. Organized by the Willow Glen Business Association, the Beer Walk invites you to sip your way through a variety of brews while strolling through a beloved local spot.

As you wander the streets of Downtown Willow Glen, you’ll stop at local businesses pouring their featured beers. Whether you’re into bold IPAs, rich stouts, or something crisp and refreshing, there’s a taste waiting to surprise you. Every step supports the local economy, making it a feel-good outing in every sense.

Participating breweries include Discretion Brewery, Karl Strauss Brewing Company, Hapa's Brewing, Chapter 11 Cellars, Lagunitas Brewing Co., Sierra Nevada Brewing Co., Allagash Brewery, Strike Brewery, Firestone Walker Brewing Co., Fox Tail Fermentation Project, Clandestine Brewing, Settle Down Beer, The Long Drink, Fieldworks Brewing Co., Altamont Beer Works, New Glory Brewing, Morgan Territory Brewing, Belching Beaver Brewery, and more to come!

The cost is $40 for advance tickets, then they increase to $45 on 6/9/25. That includes a beer glass, the tastings, a wristband, and a map to the tasting sites. Non-drinkers (including kids) can tag along at no cost. You can get your tickets over here.

Celebrate Portuguese Culture at San Jose’s Dia de Portugal Festival 2025

Organized by the Portuguese Heritage Society of California, this event stands as one of the largest celebrations of its kind in the state. It’s a gathering that unites people from across the community to honor Portugal’s national day and revel in the traditions of the local Portuguese population. Be sure to save the date—June 14, 2025—when the festival returns to History San José for a day packed with food, music, and joy.

The festival ties into Dia de Portugal, celebrated on June 10th, which marks the legacy of Luís de Camões, a poet whose work captures the essence of Portuguese history. What started as a modest "Spring Festival" has evolved into a major San Jose tradition, held annually on the second Saturday in June. This event doesn’t just celebrate Portugal—it also embraces the wider Lusophone world, including places like Macau and Brazil.

When you step into the Dia de Portugal Festival, you’re greeted by an array of sensory delights. Traditional Portuguese foods like caldo verde, bifanas, and pastéis de nata fill the air with tempting aromas. Live music and dance performances bring energy and rhythm, while a colorful parade rolls through with eye-catching costumes and floats. Families can explore the Portuguese Historical Museum at History San José to dig into the community’s local roots. It’s an all-ages affair that promises something memorable for everyone.

Mark your calendars for Saturday, June 14, 2025, at History San José, located at 1650 Senter Road. Entry is free, and parking won’t be a hassle—there’s plenty available, including free spots with shuttle service from nearby areas. Keep an eye out for street signs pointing you to the right spots.

This festival is a window into the warmth of Portuguese heritage and a celebration of San Jose’s diverse identity. It’s an invitation to connect with the local Portuguese community and help preserve their traditions for years to come. See you there!

Experience the Creative Pulse of San Jose at the SubZERO Festival

San Jose’s SoFA District transforms into a hub of creativity each year with the SubZERO Festival, an event that celebrates the city’s indie culture, art, and music. Mark your calendars for June 6th from 5pm to 11pm and June 7th from 2pm to 8pm, when South First Street between San Carlos and Reed Streets in Downtown San Jose becomes the stage for this vibrant gathering. The festival blends a DIY ethos with a mix of high and low-tech artistry, offering a fresh take on what makes San Jose’s creative scene so special. It’s a weekend that promises to ignite your senses and connect you with the heart of our city.

Outdoor stages come alive with live music and performances, spotlighting local talent that embodies the indie spirit. Alongside the tunes, the festival syncs up with the South FIRST FRIDAYS art walk, opening doors to galleries and showcasing visual artists who call this city home. Whether you’re tapping your foot to a beat, admiring a new painting, or simply enjoying the energy of the crowd, there’s plenty to explore. Best of all, admission is free, making it easy for everyone to join in the fun.

What sets SubZERO apart is how it weaves the community together. By showing up, you’re supporting the artists, musicians, and performers who fuel San Jose’s cultural engine. Head to Downtown San Jose's SoFA district this June to experience a festival that captures the essence of the city’s artistic soul. It’s a celebration you’ll remember. For more info, head over here.