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.

Black Family Day SV Brings Culture and Joy to Downtown San Jose Today

Experience a heartwarming celebration when you make your way to Black Family Day SV. This free public event runs today from 11am to 4pm at Parque de los Pobladores on 510 S 1st Street in Downtown San Jose.

You can gather with your family amid lively performances, interactive activities, and wellness resources that honor African and African ancestry heritage. The gathering marks the vibrant close to African and African Ancestry Month in Silicon Valley and fills the park with laughter, music, and genuine connections.

Presented by the Black Leadership Kitchen Cabinet and produced by the Silicon Valley African Film Festival, the day empowers every attendee through shared pride and community strength. You will discover moments that uplift and remind you why diversity fuels San Jose’s growth.

For more info, head over here.

Sonic Loveway Returns for a Magical Valentine's Day in Downtown San Jose

Today marks the return of Sonic Loveway, a captivating Valentine's Day event at San Jose City Hall Plaza. Presented by the San Jose Office of Cultural Affairs in partnership with Opera San Jose, this gathering runs from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. and invites everyone to celebrate love through music, art, and community connections. Whether honoring romance, friendship, or a passion for creativity, attendees find an evening filled with live performances and interactive elements that highlight the city's artistic spirit.

Performers include talents from Opera San Jose, members of the Symphony San Jose Chorale, Camp Rock, and the Silicon Valley Youth Harp Ensemble. These groups deliver enchanting music that resonates across the plaza. The event also features a makers market with handcrafted goods from local artisans and food trucks offering diverse flavors to enjoy amid the festivities.

At the center stands the Sonic Runway, a corridor of concentric arches equipped with 554 addressable LEDs that visualize sound in real time. Live audio gets analyzed and transformed into patterns racing at the speed of sound, creating a synchronized light and sound experience. Walking through it syncs the visuals with the beats, turning a simple stroll into an immersive adventure.

For additional information, visit https://www.operasj.org/sonic-loveway

Lunaire Returns to Westfield Valley Fair with Vibrant Lunar New Year Displays

Westfield Valley Fair transforms into a floral wonderland this week as Lunaire makes its triumphant return, running from February 11 through 17. This free event fills the mall with over 15 elaborate fresh-flower installations, each one a masterpiece crafted by some of California's most inventive floral designers. The theme honors Lunar New Year and the dynamic Year of the Horse, infusing the space with energy, color, and cultural depth that captures the spirit of renewal.

Visitors can wander among towering floral sculptures and whimsical mannequins draped in blooms, petals, and natural elements that tell stories of tradition. One standout features a majestic horse figure galloping through fiery autumn leaves and intricate woven details, while others evoke moonlit cycles and playful animal motifs.

A highlight comes with the Fan Favorite Contest, inviting everyone to cast votes for their top mannequin. The lucky winner scores a luxurious one-night getaway for two at Rosewood Sand Hill, complete with a gourmet breakfast.

For additional information, visit https://www.westfield.com/en/united-states/valleyfair/events/lunaire-returns/133787

San Pedro Superfest Lights Up Big Game Weekend in San Jose

San Pedro Square Market will transform into a vibrant sports hub for San Pedro Superfest, a free block-party event aligned with Big Game Weekend. From February 6 to 8, the setup includes a 100-yard artificial turf area for casual play, alongside local markets and San Pedro Square eateries.

Friday kicks off from 4 to 10 p.m., Saturday extends from noon to 10 p.m., offering a full day of fun, while Sunday runs from noon to 7 p.m. to wrap up the festivities. Attendees can explore the Culture Night Market for diverse vendor experiences and the Shop Local marketplace for distinctive goods.

Younger visitors and families find plenty in Kids Alley and the dedicated stage with tailored programming. Tech displays from Archer, Joby, and eBay add a forward-thinking element, reflecting San Jose's role as an innovation center. Live performances on the main stage keep the energy flowing all weekend while specialty food and drinks will further enhance the experience.

For more information: https://sjdowntown.com/event/san-pedro-superfest/?mc_cid=6ee15fbded&mc_eid=6a803b73ff

Pick-Up Party Launches Content Magazine's Sight and Sound Issue at Hobee's

Content is hosting an engaging evening on February 26 with the Pick-Up Party for Content Magazine issue 18.2, themed Sight and Sound. Held at Hobee's Restaurant and Beer Garden on North 2nd Street, the event runs from 6 to 9 p.m., offering a blend of art, music, and community gathering. This celebration spotlights local talent and creativity, drawing attention to the city's thriving cultural landscape.

Attendees can explore a pop-up gallery exhibition in partnership with 1Culture, displaying works from featured artists like graffiti creator Akeem Raheem, photographer Buggsy Malone, painter Cooper Salmon, sound designer George Psarras, rapper Joe Fresco, muralist Karime Dawll Contreras, composer Mauricio Rodriguez, visual artist Nata Drachinskaya, SJSU photography students, and musician William Johnston Bohrer. The lineup also includes a DJ set and a live performance by Bohrer, creating an immersive atmosphere that ties into the issue's focus on visual and auditory experiences.

Hobee's provides a cash bar and menu selections, with a sneak peek at their upcoming taproom offerings set for summer 2026. Content Magazine members receive complimentary beverages and hors d'oeuvres, adding an extra incentive to join. All ages can participate, making it a family-friendly way to connect with San Jose's artistic community.

To get your free tickets: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/pick-up-party-182-sight-and-sound-at-hobees-restaurant-tickets-1981244476563?aff=oddtdtcreator

Celebrate the Year of the Horse at San Jose's Lunar New Year Festival

Mark the Year of the Horse with a free Lunar New Year Festival on March 14, 2026, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at History Park on Phelan Avenue. Organized by History San José and the Chinese Historical & Cultural Project, the event welcomes families to immerse themselves in traditions that showcase Chinese heritage through lively demonstrations and interactive elements.

Lion dance teams take center stage, accompanied by Chinese cultural dances and music that fill the air with rhythm. Martial arts displays demonstrate skill and discipline, while participants try Chinese calligraphy and brush painting. Children will find plenty of hands-on crafts and games, with story-telling sessions sparking imagination and selfies with dragons to create memorable moments.

Food trucks will serve diverse bites, O'Brien's Ice Cream Store tempts with desserts, and trolley rides will offer a relaxed way to explore. The Chinese American Historical Museum will open its doors for deeper insights into our community's past.

For more information: www.chcp.org www.historysanjose.org

Join Mayor Mahan for San Jose's State of the City 2026

San Jose invites everyone to participate in the annual State of the City event on February 7, starting at 9 a.m. This gathering combines hands-on service with a celebration of what makes our city special, all timed to align with preparations for Super Bowl LX.

The day begins with service projects from 9 to 11 a.m. at 194 Post Street. Volunteers will paint an iconic Downtown building, tend to empty lots, and remove graffiti alongside family and friends. Following the service, a brief address from 11 a.m. to noon highlights recent progress in San Jose and outlines plans to tackle ongoing challenges. This moment offers insight into the city's direction, emphasizing collaboration and forward momentum.

The festivities continue from noon to 5 p.m. with a block party at San Pedro Square. Attendees can enjoy flying car simulations, holograms, a puppy bowl, and booths from local small businesses.

For more information and to register: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/san-jose-state-of-the-city-2026-tickets-1980742060824

Join Mayor Mahan for Today's Tackle San Jose Clean-Up

San Jose residents have a chance today to roll up their sleeves and contribute to a brighter future for our city. The Tackle San Jose clean-up event focuses on the Julian area in Downtown San Jose, bringing together neighbors, city leaders, and partners like the San Jose Sharks and the San Jose Conservation Corps. This initiative prepares our streets for Super Bowl 60, ensuring visitors see the best of what San Jose offers while fostering community pride among locals.

Participating means picking up litter, beautifying public spaces, and connecting with fellow volunteers who share a passion for a cleaner environment. Events like this highlight how collective action strengthens neighborhoods and showcases San Jose's commitment to safety and vitality. There are multiple dates in the series, including upcoming ones in areas like San Fernando and Plaza de Cesar Chavez.

Head out this morning to make a tangible difference. RSVP through the Downtown San Jose Association to get specific details on meeting points and what to bring.

For more information and to RSVP: https://sjdowntown.com/event/tackle-san-jose-clean-up-with-the-mayor/2026-01-24/

FurCon Downtown San Jose Guide

The first long weekend of the year marks a unique San Jose tradition. If you notice a bunch of furry costumed characters running around Downtown San Jose, then you know FurCon is in town. If you want to increase your chances of seeing these rare creatures, below is the official FurCon Downtown San Jose Guide. 

Some of the places on the list like Fox Tail Fermentation Project and Haberdasher even have specials for FurCon attendees if they are wearing their suits. It's a fun weekend to hang out Downtown!

Two Wheel Tuesday Brings Bike Vibes and Vinyl to Downtown San Jose

Cyclists and music enthusiasts have a standing invitation every Tuesday at Hapa's Creekside in Downtown San Jose. Located at 59 Barack Obama Boulevard near the SAP Center, this weekly gathering encourages people to ride their bikes for a rewarding 2-for-1 deal on beers. The event kicks off with food service at 4 p.m. from Traveler by Chef Lou, offering a range of tasty options to fuel the evening.

As the afternoon transitions to night, the focus shifts to the sounds of vinyl records starting at 5 p.m. Local DJs such as Flipside Lovers, Akro1, Parrasoul SC, and Ren from Sweaterfunk take turns spinning all-vinyl sets that fill the space with eclectic beats.

Two Wheel Tuesday adds to the dynamic energy Downtown by blending community activities with delicious craft beer. For additional information, visit https://www.instagram.com/p/DTa7juMEk3L/.

Invisible Skies: A Flash Art Spectacle at San Jose City Hall

San Jose is hosting Invisible Skies, a free flash art event set for January 31, 2026, at City Hall on East Santa Clara Street in Downtown San Jose. Umbrella distribution starts at 5:30 PM, with the main activity kicking off at 6:30 PM once the sky darkens. This gathering will turn the plaza into a canvas for communal creativity, open to all ages and designed to last about two hours.

Attendees receive illuminated umbrellas as gifts, using them to form galaxies and celestial patterns across the space. The collective effort creates a living artwork, documented by drones overhead for later digital presentations and media sharing. Participants play a direct role in the display, becoming stars in the night sky formation.

Organized by ETProjects.Foundation alongside the City of San Jose's Office of Economic Development and Cultural Affairs, the event emphasizes community involvement. Wear black clothing without graphics to enhance the visual effect, and avoid flash photography to preserve the drone footage. A photo release form must be signed electronically through registration or brought printed.

The event operates on a first-come, first-served basis with limited spots remaining. Parking is available through nearby options listed at parksj.org.

For registration and full details, visit https://www.eventbrite.com/e/invisible-skies-tickets-1407918806049.

First Fridays: A Fresh Start to 2026 at the San Jose Museum of Art

San Jose invites art enthusiasts to begin the new year with an evening of inspiration at the San Jose Museum of Art's First Fridays event on January 2, 2026, from 6 to 9 pm. This monthly gathering opens the galleries for free, allowing visitors to wander through current exhibitions that showcase diverse creative voices. Highlights include Pao Houa Her: The Imaginative Landscape, Young Bay Mud, and ektor garcia: loose ends, each offering unique perspectives on culture and innovation.

Located in Downtown San Jose, the museum transforms into a welcoming space for the community after hours. Guests can enjoy late-night access to El Cafecito by Mezcal Restaurant for light bites and a cash bar, adding a relaxed social element to the night. The Museum Store stays open late too, perfect for picking up local artisan goods, with members receiving discounts to make the experience even more rewarding.

Plan ahead by registering for a fast check-in. Get your $0 tickets over here: https://52102.blackbaudhosting.com/52102/tickets?tab=2&txobjid=82ee37c6-b090-4981-8669-476f8728bf57

San Jose's Momentum Builds: Record Visitors and Business Growth in 2025

Downtown San Jose welcomed 15.9 million visitors from January to June this year, marking a clear increase from the previous period. This surge reflects growing interest in the area's attractions, from new restaurants to public events that draw crowds. Sixteen food and beverage spots opened in the past 12 months, adding fresh options for dining and gathering. Events like DJ performances by Fisher and Steve Aoki on Santa Clara Street brought thousands together, fostering a sense of community pride against the backdrop of City Hall.

Public art installations have also played a role in enlivening the spaces. Giant folk-art sculptures known as Alebrijes appeared around Plaza de Cesar Chavez during the San Jose Jazz Summer Fest, offering unique experiences that encourage exploration. City leaders emphasize activating public areas creatively to attract more people, building on the organic energy from local developers and restaurateurs who shape the Downtown vibe from within.

Safety remains a priority, with San Jose earning recognition as the safest large U.S. city in a recent study. Crime against persons dropped nearly 12 percent in the first ten months compared to last year, while efforts to address homelessness have cleared encampments along the Guadalupe River and improved areas like Arena Green. These steps contribute to a cleaner, more welcoming environment that supports the return of office workers and boosts visitor confidence.

Business activity shows strong progress citywide, with 933 new business tax certificates issued this year, including 104 in Downtown. Hotel occupancy rose about 3 percent, and food and beverage sales tax revenue hit an all-time high, surpassing pre-pandemic levels by 21 percent. This growth positions San Jose as a dynamic hub ready for major events in the coming year, like the Super Bowl and World Cup matches.

Source: SVBJ

Earn Rewards While Supporting Downtown San Jose Businesses This Holiday Season

Downtown San Jose is offering a great incentive for shoppers this December with the Shop Small Downtown program from the San Jose Downtown Association. When you spend at least $150 at participating local businesses, you qualify for a $50 gift card in return. This promotion runs through December 24 and focuses on small shops, restaurants, and theaters that define the area's character. The gift card works at over 60 locations across Downtown, making it easy to keep the spending local and discover more spots.

Participating is straightforward. Collect your receipts from purchases made at eligible Downtown businesses starting from November 28. Once they total $150 or more, upload photos of them through the association's website for verification. If your entry is among the first 100 valid ones, the $50 gift card arrives soon after. Limited to one entry per person.

All valid entries, even beyond the first 100, go into a drawing for a grand prize. Two winners will each receive a $500 San Jose Downtown gift card at the promotion's end. By joining in, shoppers directly bolster the local economy and help sustain the unique businesses that make Downtown San Jose vibrant.

For details and to submit receipts, visit https://sjdowntown.com/shopdtsj I already got my $50 gift card (thanks to a great meal at Petiscos), now it's time to get yours!

15 Years of Holiday Traditions at Fiesta Navideña

The Mexican Heritage Plaza in East San Jose comes alive each December with lights, music, and community spirit for Fiesta Navideña. This year marks the 15th annual gathering on Saturday, December 13, 2025, from 5:30 pm to 9:30 pm, with doors opening at 5:00 pm. Families and friends fill the space at 1700 Alum Rock Avenue to close out the year with free activities that highlight cultural roots and seasonal joy.

Carlos y Charlos take the stage for a free concert, delivering norteño and conjunto rhythms that echo through the Mayfair neighborhood. Their sound draws from legends like Los Alegres de Terán and Narciso Martinez, bringing energy that gets everyone moving. Alongside the music, Los Lupeños de San José perform folklórico dances, adding colorful motion and tradition to the evening.

Teatro Vision leads an interactive posada, inviting participants to join in a classic Mexican custom of hospitality and celebration. An art workshop welcomes all ages to create together, while local vendors sell handmade crafts and gifts. The scent of fresh tamales wafts through the air, rounding out the sensory experience.

Founded in 1999, the Mexican Heritage Plaza serves as a key cultural hub, hosting over 100,000 visitors annually through arts and events that strengthen community ties. Fiesta Navideña embodies this mission by uniting generations in a shared appreciation of heritage and resilience.

For registration and more information, visit https://www.eventbrite.com/e/fiesta-navidena-tickets-1830965891269

Diwali Carnival Illuminates Downtown San Jose This Weekend

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

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

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

Green Halloween Brings Eco-Friendly Fun to Happy Hollow Park & Zoo

San Jose families have a perfect opportunity to celebrate the spooky season sustainably with Green Halloween at Happy Hollow Park & Zoo on October 25 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. This annual event turns the zoo into a hub of Halloween excitement, where visitors can watch animals engage with themed enrichments like pumpkins filled with treats. Happy Hollow offers a welcoming space for all ages to enjoy the festivities while supporting local wildlife conservation efforts.

The day features a variety of activities designed for young explorers, including critter shows, hands-on crafts with a creepy twist, interactive games, and close-up animal encounters. Decomposing decor adds to the eerie yet educational vibe, teaching attendees about natural cycles in an engaging way. Families can participate fully, with everything included in general admission, making it an easy outing for parents looking to create memorable experiences without extra hassle.

What sets Green Halloween apart is its focus on environmental responsibility, aligning with Happy Hollow's status as a certified green facility. The event encourages reusable costumes and highlights ways to make holidays more planet-friendly, inspiring attendees to adopt similar practices at home. This approach not only entertains but also fosters a sense of community stewardship, showing how San Jose leads in blending fun with sustainability.

Tickets range from $15 to $18, with a $3 discount for those arriving in costume, rewarding creativity and participation. Members enjoy free entry, adding value for regular visitors. As San Jose continues to prioritize green initiatives, events like this strengthen the city's appeal as a family-oriented destination that values both entertainment and the environment.