Free Outdoor Screening of How to Train Your Dragon at Joseph D. Grant County Park

Families can settle under the open sky on Saturday, August 1, for a free showing of the live-action How to Train Your Dragon at Joseph D. Grant County Park. The film begins at sunset, with the evening running from 8:00 p.m. to about 10:45 p.m. at the Canada De Pala group site.

Santa Clara County Parks hosts the event as part of its summer Movie Nights in the Park series. Entry costs nothing, though parking runs $6 per vehicle. Guests should bring a chair or blanket, a flashlight, and snacks. Dogs stay home for this one.

The park sits at 18405 Mount Hamilton Road in San José and offers a scenic backdrop of rolling hills for the adventure. Arriving early helps secure a good spot before the lights go down and the story of dragons and friendship unfolds on the big screen.

This simple outdoor gathering gives local residents an easy way to enjoy a popular family film without leaving the county’s natural spaces. Pack light, head out early, and settle in for an evening of movie magic among the trees.

Source: Santa Clara County Parks

New Bill Kee Park Takes Shape Near Almaden Expressway

A modest 1.4-acre parcel at the end of Rinconada Drive will soon become Bill Kee Park, a neighborhood gathering spot complete with a playground, walking loop, pollinator garden, public art, and a bioretention system that captures and filters stormwater. The site sits adjacent to the Almaden Expressway and Curtner Avenue off-ramp in south San Jose.

City Council approved the name earlier this year after community surveys ranked Bill Kee highest among the options. Kee, a Chinese American business leader who died in 1989, helped preserve San Jose’s historic Chinatown and broke barriers by becoming one of the first Chinese Americans admitted to several local civic organizations.

Design work is scheduled to wrap up this spring, with construction expected to begin in the fall and the park opening for public use by summer 2027. The project grows out of land dedicated during the Latitude 37 apartment development and forms part of broader efforts to improve water quality while adding recreation space to nearby residential pockets.

Families and neighbors in the area will gain a quiet place to walk, play, and learn once the improvements arrive. The combination of everyday amenities and environmental features turns an underused corner into a practical addition that supports both daily life and the city’s long-term sustainability goals.

Source: City of San Jose Capital Projects

Free Outdoor Screening of Zootopia 2 Comes to Jack Fischer Park

Families across San Jose and the surrounding South Bay have a free evening activity waiting later today at Jack Fischer Park in Campbell. The City of Campbell Recreation team is screening Zootopia 2 outdoors starting at 7:30 p.m., with the movie running until about 10 p.m.

The park sits at Abbott Avenue and Pollard Road, just a short drive from many San Jose neighborhoods. Organizers recommend arriving early to claim a good spot on the grass. Bring blankets, lawn chairs, and snacks; free parking is available on site. The event is open to all ages and requires no tickets.

Jack Fischer Park offers open lawns and a family-friendly setting that works well for an evening under the stars. The animated sequel follows the continuing adventures of Judy Hopps and Nick Wilde, giving younger viewers a familiar story while parents can relax outdoors.

Campbell’s free movie nights have become a reliable summer tradition for nearby residents. With the screening happening tonight, it offers a simple way to spend a Friday evening outdoors without planning far ahead.

Glen Fest Returns to Willow Glen for a Day of Music, Food, and Family Fun

The third annual Glen Fest will turn the Bank of America lot on Lincoln Avenue into Willow Glen’s biggest community celebration of the year on September 26. From 11 in the morning until 6 in the evening, local food vendors, beer and wine stands, live bands, and a full Kids Court will draw neighbors together for a full day of outdoor enjoyment.

Two bands will keep the soundtrack going from early afternoon onward. The Wanderers will deliver classic rock and pop hits spanning the 1960s through today between noon and 2:30. Livewire will follow with high-energy dance covers from the 1970s and 1980s plus current favorites, taking over from 3 until 5:30 and inviting everyone to move.

A dedicated Kids Court will offer bouncy houses, face painting, appearances by local sports teams, and additional activities designed for younger visitors. The mix of live music, food, and play creates an easy setting where families can spend hours wandering the lot and nearby tree-lined streets.

Organized by the Willow Glen Business Association, the free event supports independent merchants while giving the neighborhood a signature gathering point. It transforms a central parking area into a vibrant space for eating, dancing, and connecting with people who live and work nearby.

Family Day on the Avenue Returns to Lincoln Avenue in Willow Glen

Willow Glen merchants will fill Lincoln Avenue with family-friendly fun on July 25. From 11 in the morning until 3 in the afternoon, participating shops and restaurants along the tree-lined stretch will offer special deals, live music, games, and hands-on activities that turn a regular summer Saturday into a neighborhood celebration.

The free event serves as one last relaxed outing before school schedules take over. Families can collect book-themed prizes at Hicklebee’s, enjoy pizza specials at Round Table or Pizza My Heart, sample chocolate bites at Mariette Chocolates, or try sensory play stations and movement games. Many spots will also hand out stickers, discounts, and exclusive giveaways while supplies hold out.

Organized by the Willow Glen Business Association, the afternoon highlights the independent businesses that give the neighborhood its distinct character. Visitors will find everything from pet supply surprises and bookstore treats to aura photo sessions and studio tours, all within a compact area that stays easy to navigate with nearby parking.

This merchant-led gathering keeps the small-town energy that is still alive inside San Jose. It creates space for parents and kids to wander, discover new favorites, and support the local shops that make Downtown Willow Glen feel like its own destination.

San Jose gains when its neighborhoods host simple, welcoming events like this one. Family Day on the Avenue strengthens connections between residents and the businesses that line the Avenue, adding another layer to the everyday vibrancy that sets Willow Glen apart.

For a full list of deals and giveaways, head over here.

Music in the Glen Marks 25 Years of Free Summer Concerts in Willow Glen

Willow Glen has hosted Music in the Glen for a full quarter century in 2026, with the Kiwanis Club of Willow Glen continuing its sponsorship of these Sunday afternoon gatherings at Frank Bramhall Park. The series runs through the summer on Willow Street, drawing residents who arrive early to claim spots on the grass.

Attendees spread blankets and chairs across the open grounds while local bands perform from 4-6pm each evening. Children dart between the trees, adults chat in small groups, and the park atmosphere stays relaxed even as the music builds momentum from one set to the next.

Performers such as Big Mike and the Hartbeats or The Iconics deliver sets that mix rock, pop, and soulful classics, appealing to listeners across generations without any admission fee required. Different acts appear each week, keeping the lineup fresh while honoring the neighborhood tradition of accessible live entertainment.

Today's performance will be by Cisco Kid. For more information on the Kiwanis Club of Willow Glen head over here.

Playful People Productions Sets the Stage for Joyful Performances in 2026 and 2027

San Jose families will soon have new opportunities to experience the magic of live musical theater thanks to Playful People Productions and its upcoming season of shows. The nonprofit theater company prepared a diverse collection of productions drawn from popular books and films, designed to entertain while building confidence and creativity among participants from young children to adults.

Two productions will launch the season this fall with stories that have delighted generations. Shrek The Musical JR will bring the hilarious adventures of the ogre and his friends to the stage for performers ages five through seventeen. With auditions set for the first week of August, young actors can prepare for performances that run from September twenty-fifth through October fourth at the Historic Hoover Theatre. A homeschool production of Winnie the Pooh will follow a similar path, opening registration on June seventh for children ages five to twelve and offering a cozy run at the end of October.

Adults and those eighteen and older will have their own chance to shine in a secret fall musical whose details Playful People Productions kept tightly under wraps. Those curious about this true story in an unexpected setting can reach out directly to learn more and join the cast. Registration opened at six hundred dollars, with auditions in early August and performances scheduled for mid November.

The 2027 portion of the season will feature two highly anticipated titles that span comedy, adventure, and empowerment. Disney's Descendants: The Musical will arrive for performers twelve and up, bringing the story of villain kids navigating hero school to life with familiar songs and plenty of laughs. Registration will open later this year ahead of January auditions and an early April performance run. Roald Dahl's Matilda The Musical JR will then take over with its clever celebration of clever kids and imaginative rebellion. Performers ages eight to fourteen plus a special circus chorus for ages four to seven will rehearse in March for a series of May performances across multiple casts.

Every production will unfold at the Historic Hoover Theatre on Park Avenue, a venue that has become a hub for local performing arts. Playful People Productions spent more than fifteen years creating inclusive environments where families perform side by side and where Positive Discipline supports every participant's growth. This season will extend that mission by inviting the entire San Jose community to take part in or attend these joyful productions that highlight the power of storytelling and togetherness.

For registration and additional information, visit www.playfulpeople.org or call (408) 878-5362.

Coyote Creek Habitat Day Will Turn a Morning in Morgan Hill into a Living Classroom for South Bay Families

San Jose families seeking a meaningful way to spend a Saturday morning will find it at Coyote Creek Habitat Day on June 6. The free event runs from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Coyote Creek Visitor Center near Anderson Lake in Morgan Hill, where the creek itself becomes the teacher and every participant gets to explore its secrets up close.

Interactive exhibitors will share the story of local watersheds while live wildlife makes appearances throughout the morning. Guests can choose a short bike ride along the trail, join a guided nature or bird walk, or settle in for mini chats with guest speakers who know the creek’s rhythms best. Those who prefer hands-on discovery can join the BioBlitz, play Agents of Discovery, or carefully examine an owl pellet to piece together what a predator ate the night before.

The day highlights everything that makes Coyote Creek special: its role as a vital habitat corridor, the diversity of species that call it home, and the simple power of spending time outdoors in a place that still feels wild. By the time the event wraps at 1 p.m., even the youngest explorers will carry home new questions and a stronger sense of why protecting these waterways matters.

Admission costs nothing, and the address at 19245 Malaguerra Avenue comes with a gentle nudge to walk, bike, carpool, or ride public transit when possible. Full details and any last-minute updates will appear on the event page, while questions can go directly to interp@prk.sccgov.org.

Golden Ticket Excitement Lands in San Jose with Playful People Productions' Willy Wonka Jr.

Playful People Productions brings Willy Wonka Jr. to the Historic Hoover Theater this month. Four casts of young performers ages four to twelve will transform the classic tale of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory into a live musical spectacle filled with songs, dancing, and imaginative sets. The production captures the spirit of creativity that makes our city a vibrant place for the arts.

Directors Alicia Sanders, Katie D'Arcey, and Shannon Santandrea have prepared these ensembles with care, supported by vocal directors Brian Kemper and Elaine Saum. Each group delivers its own fresh take on the story of Willy Wonka and his golden ticket contest. Audiences can expect to meet the endearing Charlie Bucket, his grandfather, and a cast of unforgettable characters who learn important lessons inside the factory.

The show highlights the joy of live theater right in San Jose, where local children develop confidence, teamwork, and artistic skills through programs like those offered by this nonprofit. Founded in 2010 and established as a 501(c)3 in 2017, Playful People Productions creates inclusive spaces that welcome participants of all backgrounds and even encourages families to perform together on stage.

Support from the City of San José Cultural Affairs grant and SVCreates underscores the value placed on arts education here. These efforts help position San Jose as a leader in nurturing young talent and building community through shared cultural experiences that everyone can enjoy.

Shows take place across several dates with the Lollipop, Gumdrop, Taffy, and Jelly Bean casts each offering unique performance times. The intimate Historic Hoover Theater at 1635 Park Avenue sets the stage for an evening or afternoon of laughter and wonder. Tickets cost $18 for youth twelve and under, $20 for students thirteen to seventeen, and $25 dollars for adults.

For tickets or more information, visit www.PlayfulPeople.org or call (408) 878-5362.

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.

Blinky's Drive-Thru Holiday Lights: San Jose's Sparkling Tradition Glows Brighter in 2025

San Jose welcomes back a beloved holiday staple with Blinky's Drive-Thru Holiday Light Show at Christmas in the Park, transforming the Santa Clara County Fairgrounds into a wonderland of festive illuminations. This drive-thru experience invites families and friends to cruise through elaborate light displays from the comfort of their vehicles, creating memorable evenings under twinkling arches and animated scenes. Open through December 31, the event runs on weeknights from 6 to 10 p.m. and weekends from 5 to 11 p.m., with a special Black Friday start on November 28 from 6 to 11 p.m.

The Fairgrounds location, accessible via Gate F on Umbarger Road, makes it easy for anyone in the South Bay to join the fun, whether coming from Downtown San Jose or further south. As cars wind through the path, guests encounter vibrant setups that highlight holiday themes, from classic winter motifs to playful surprises. This year's iteration builds on the tradition's appeal, drawing crowds eager for a low-key yet enchanting outing that supports local festivities. Donations through the Christmas in the Park Annual Giving Campaign help sustain these efforts, ensuring the lights shine for generations.

For tickets starting at $25, visit https://christmasinthepark.myshopify.com/pages/blinkys-drive-thru-2025

Willow Glen Christmas Map

Quick post to share a handy map of the amazing Christmas decorations in Willow Glen. I highly recommend doing a drive through, or better yet taking a stroll along the streets in the upper left. You might even find bacon-wrapped hotdog vendors on corners and kids selling hot chocolate. 

Another honorable mention that is just south of this map is the "Make a Wish" house at 1334 Robsheal Dr. that raises six-figures for charity every year. They even offer photos with Santa on the weekend.

Source: Stella Ma, Willow Glen Neighbors FB

Holiday Trolley Rides Return to Willow Glen

Willow Glen welcomes back its cherished holiday trolley rides this December, offering a delightful way to experience the neighborhood's festive charm. From December 7 through December 18, the Willow Glen Business Association hosts these evening journeys along tree-lined streets adorned with lights. Riders glide past sidewalk cafes, boutiques, and cozy shops that give the area its small-town appeal within San Jose.

Each ride lasts 30 minutes and departs from the Bank of America lot at 1245 Lincoln Avenue, with departures at 5:15pm, 6pm, 6:45pm, 7:30pm, 8:15pm, and 9pm. The open-air trolley seats up to 32 passengers, providing views of the holiday decorations. Arrive early for check-in to secure a spot on this popular attraction.

Tickets are on sale now, with adults at $40 plus fees and children aged 2 to 12 at $20 plus fees. Kids under 2 ride free on a lap. Dress warmly and bring a blanket, as the trolley exposes riders to the elements. No food or dogs allowed, though drinks with secure lids work fine. Rides proceed in rain, possibly switching to a luxury bus with advance notice.

Private trolley reservations are open for select nights, ideal for groups celebrating the season. Contact the association at info@willowglen.org for details and pricing.

For more information or to purchase tickets, visit https://www.willowglen.org/trolley-rides

Halloween Family Festival at Santana Row

San Jose thrives on community gatherings that bring joy to residents and visitors alike. The annual Trick-or-Treat the Row Halloween Family Festival at Santana Row captures this energy perfectly. Held on October 28th from 10 AM to noon, the event turns the stylish shopping and dining district into a playground of seasonal delights for families.

Attendees can dive into a variety of activities designed for all ages. Live music sets a festive tone while pumpkin decorating stations spark creativity. Trick-or-treating along The Row offers sweet rewards, and stilt-walkers add a touch of whimsy. Balloons float through the air, rounding out the morning with even more surprises.

This free celebration encourages everyone to arrive in costumes and carry treat bags to make the most of the experience. No registration is needed, so families can simply show up and join the fun.

Dog Man: The Musical Premieres at San Jose Civic for Family Adventure

Dog Man: The Musical arrives at the San Jose Civic in Downtown San Jose on January 24 and 25, 2026. This production, based on Dav Pilkey's beloved book series, follows the heroic antics of a half-dog, half-policeman character who battles villains while staying true to his playful nature. Tickets go on sale October 24 at 10 a.m., with performances scheduled for Saturday at 3 p.m. and Sunday at noon, offering convenient times for weekend outings.

The story centers on Dog Man's efforts to protect the city from threats like Flippy the cyborg fish and his Beasty Buildings army, alongside Petey the evil cat and his clone. Young creators George and Harold weave the tale, racing to complete their show before lunch. Produced by TheaterWorksUSA, the musical combines humor, music, and heartfelt moments that appeal to kids and adults alike, drawing from Pilkey's other hits like Captain Underpants.

Behind the scenes, the show features book and lyrics by Kevin Del Aguila, music by Brad Alexander, and direction and choreography by Jen Wineman. The creative team includes scenic design by Timothy R. Mackabee, costumes by Heidi Leigh Hanson, lighting by David Lander, sound by Emma Wilk, and orchestrations by Lloyd Kikoler. Originally premiering off-Broadway in 2019 and returning in 2023, the production has earned acclaim for keeping audiences engaged through its lively 90-minute runtime.

For tickets, head over here.

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.

Aldea Home & Baby Lands in Willow Glen

Willow Glen is welcoming the first expansion of Aldea Home & Baby. This San Francisco-based retailer, specializing in baby gear and home furnishings, has settled into a spacious 4,800-square-foot spot at 1123 Lincoln Avenue. The store stocks everything from car seats and strollers to toys, apparel, and stylish home items, making it a go-to destination for families and design enthusiasts alike. With its roots in the Mission District since 2005, Aldea brings a curated selection that fits seamlessly into Lincoln Avenue's lineup of beloved local shops like Three Sisters and Mariette's Chocolates.

What sets this store apart is its focus on hands-on experiences for customers. Shoppers can take advantage of free demonstrations for strollers and car seats, along with personalized consultations that last anywhere from half an hour to two hours. These sessions help parents navigate choices for nurseries, registries, and everyday needs by letting them interact directly with products. In a city Forbes recognized in 2024 as the top spot for small businesses, Aldea's approach fosters that entrepreneurial spirit, drawing in community support from neighboring merchants even before the doors opened.

Looking ahead, Aldea's ambitions reflect the entrepreneurial energy pulsing through San Jose. CEO Johanna Bialkin envisions expanding to 50 locations over the next five to 10 years, starting along the West Coast and reaching into major East Coast cities. This growth mirrors the booming baby products market, projected to hit $475 billion globally by 2030. As a corporate-owned site with franchising potential, the Willow Glen location positions San Jose as a key player in this expanding industry, inviting more families to come and discover one of our city's most welcoming neighborhoods.

Source: SVBJ

Playful People Productions Stages Disney's Newsies in San Jose

Playful People Productions presents Disney's Newsies from November 8 to 16, 2025, at the Historic Hoover Theater. This Tony Award-winning musical, based on the 1899 Newsboys Strike, features two casts of teen and adult performers bringing the story to life. Set in early 20th-century New York City, the production follows charismatic newsboy Jack Kelly as he leads a group of young paper sellers in a stand against powerful publishers raising prices. The tale highlights themes of unity and justice, with reporter Katherine Plumber joining the cause to prove her worth in a male-dominated field.

The show includes memorable songs like Watch What Happens, Carrying the Banner, Seize the Day, King of New York, and Santa Fe, composed by Alan Menken with lyrics by Jack Feldman and a book by Harvey Fierstein. Directed by Katie D'Arcey and Emily Pennington, with vocal direction from Jacqueline Whitaker and choreography by Emily Pennington, the performances promise high energy and engaging dances. Two casts, named World and Sun, alternate showtimes, offering multiple chances to catch the action. Tickets range from $22 for youth under 12 to $30 for adults, making it an affordable outing for families and friends.

As part of its 15th anniversary season, Playful People Productions continues to foster inclusive theater experiences in San Jose. Founded in 2010 and operating as a nonprofit since 2017, the organization emphasizes positive discipline and creative growth for all ages. It provides classes, camps, and multi-generational shows where family members perform together, creating bonds that extend beyond the stage. Supported by grants from the City of San Jose and SVCreates in partnership with Santa Clara County, this production exemplifies the community's commitment to arts education.

The Historic Hoover Theater is located at 1635 Park Avenue and you can find more info and tickets over here.

sanjosetheaters.org

Disney On Ice Delivers Frozen and Encanto Adventures to San Jose

San Jose hosts Disney On Ice presents Frozen and Encanto at the SAP Center from October 23 through 26, 2025, with multiple performances scheduled across the four days. Skaters bring beloved characters to life on the ice, recreating scenes from both films through choreography, costumes, and special effects. Families can look forward to moments like Elsa's icy powers and Mirabel's family dynamics, all set against colorful backdrops and familiar songs.

The show combines the snowy kingdom of Arendelle with the vibrant Madrigal household, offering a blend of heartwarming stories and high-energy routines. Attendees of all ages will see Olaf's antics alongside Bruno's visions, creating a spectacle that captures the essence of these Disney favorites. With showtimes varying from mornings to evenings, the event accommodates different schedules for a convenient outing in the heart of the city.

This production adds to San Jose's lineup of family-friendly entertainment, and you can easily find tickets at Tickemaster or Stubhub.

Family Fun Takes Center Stage at Kids Day in the Park

San Jose welcomes a vibrant celebration of music and creativity this weekend with Kids Day in the Park at Plaza de César Chávez. Families can look forward to live performances from Lisa Loeb and The Hollow Trees, who join forces for a special set drawn from their new album, That’s What It’s All About. This collaboration mixes Loeb's storytelling style with the folk energy of The Hollow Trees, offering tunes that honor family traditions and classic songs. The event promises an engaging afternoon where attendees sing and dance together in the heart of the city.

Adding to the lineup, the Alphabet Rockers deliver their signature mix of melodies and meaningful lyrics. Founded in Oakland in 2007 by Kaitlin McGaw and Tommy Soulati Shepherd, this group has earned a Grammy for Best Children's Music Album along with other nominations. Their music spans animated series and global audiences, bringing positive vibes that resonate with kids and parents alike. Seeing them perform in San Jose highlights the Bay Area's rich talent pool and creates lasting memories for local families.

Beyond the stage, the festival includes plenty of activities to keep everyone entertained. Face painting stations spark imagination, while bouncy houses provide energetic playtime. Exhibits showcase interactive displays, and food trucks serve up tasty options for all ages. Held at 1 Paseo de San Antonio, this free gathering on September 20 turns Plaza de César Chávez into a family-friendly entertainment hub. For mor info and tickets, click here.