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.

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

Danny the Dragon Roars Back: A Refreshed Adventure at Happy Hollow Park & Zoo

San Jose families have a timeless favorite returning with a modern twist as Happy Hollow Park & Zoo reopens the Danny the Dragon ride after a thorough nine-month renovation. This beloved attraction, originally built in 1958, now features an updated journey through five themed lands that mirror the park's diverse habitats. Riders will glide along the half-mile track, exploring areas like a farm, jungle, and land of enchantment, all designed to create an immersive storyline that sparks wonder for visitors of all ages.

Over $600,000 was raised by donors to the Happy Hollow Foundation (I'm proud to be one of them). City staff dedicated nearly a year of skilled work to bring the vision to life, replacing the original fluorescent tunnel and storybook theme with something more engaging for today's guests. This marks the ride's first scenery refresh in 64 years, blending nostalgia with contemporary appeal to draw in new generations.

Since Happy Hollow opened in 1961, attractions like Danny the Dragon have created lasting memories, with parents and grandparents sharing stories of their own childhood rides. Now, this revitalized ride stands ready to welcome guests. The official ribbon cutting was yesterday and Danny the Dragon is now ready for visitors to enjoy immediately.

Update on Danny the Dragon in Happy Hollow Park & Zoo

The most famous ride in San Jose history is getting a major makeover. The new Danny the Dragon ride will weave through five new lands with entirely new decorations. Most of those will be habitats reminiscent of Happy Hollow and the animals that live in them but the train will eventually travel to the Land of Enchantment with Rupunzel's castle, a gnome grove, and mushroom meadow. If you have younger kids, this will be the ride to take them to locally in the summer when it reopens. Stay tuned for more updates later this summer on this exciting enhancement to Happy Hallow Park & Zoo!

Free Summer Concerts at St. James Park: 2025 Series Announced

Friends of Levitt Pavilion San Jose is bringing back their beloved free concert series to St. James Park, and the 2025 lineup promises to be a standout season. Running from May through September, this series offers a dazzling array of musical genres—think Afrobeats, blues, country, cumbia, and more—designed to delight every listener. Beyond the music, these events weave together the fabric of our community, blending local flavors, family fun, and a shared love for live performances in one of San Jose’s most iconic green spaces.

The series kicks off on May 25 with a dynamic celebration of Africa Day, co-presented by AWO. Expect an afternoon filled with the infectious rhythms of Riddim Exchange, a Bay Area collective delivering electrifying Afrobeats, alongside the traditional Zimbabwean sounds and dances of the Chinyakare Ensemble. The day starts strong with the Anambra State Cultural Association of Nigeria showcasing the rich heritage of the Igbo people through music and masquerade. This is just a taste of what’s to come—summer highlights include soulful blues on June 1 with Maxx Cabello Jr., psychedelic Latinx funk from Valley Wolf on August 3, and a roots reggae bash featuring Groundation on August 24. With concerts spanning the season, there’s always a new sound to discover.

Bring the family and settle in for a day of enjoyment: kids can dive into tailored activities while adults unwind with a cold drink from the beer and wine garden or savor bites from an array of food trucks. Every event is free and open to everyone, making it an inviting way to spend a weekend in Downtown San Jose.

Each concert is co-presented by local cultural powerhouses like The Fountain Blues Foundation, MACLA, and Needle to the Groove, reflecting San Jose’s diverse artistic spirit. These partnerships elevate every performance and underscore a collective commitment to enriching our city’s cultural landscape. Even more exciting, this series is paving the way for the permanent Levitt Pavilion structure—a future landmark that will amplify San Jose’s reputation as a hub for creativity and connection.

Don’t let this summer pass you by without joining the fun at St. James Park. Head to www.levittsanjose.org for the full schedule and details on how to donate or volunteer to support this incredible initiative. Follow

@LevittSanJose

on social media to catch the latest updates on artists and events.

Danny the Dragon Gets a Roaring Revival at Happy Hollow

San Jose’s beloved Happy Hollow Park & Zoo is breathing new life into one of its most iconic attractions—Danny the Dragon! For over six decades, this whimsical train ride has been a cornerstone of family fun in our city, delighting generations with its quirky charm and playful journey through the park. Now, thanks to a renovation project, Danny is set to soar to new heights, and we can’t wait to see what’s in store.

The Happy Hollow Foundation recently launched a $500,000 capital campaign to “reimagine” Danny the Dragon, ensuring this treasured mascot remains a vibrant part of San Jose’s story for years to come. This renovation goes beyond a simple spruce-up—it’s a full transformation. The updated Danny will evolve from a classic train ride into an immersive experience, guiding visitors through themed “lands” that reflect the diverse habitats found at Happy Hollow.

What makes this project extra special is its focus on community. The goal is to fund the entire renovation through local support, with donors earning a unique perk: their names will be featured on “dragon scales” along the ride’s queue fence (I ordered one myself). It’s a chance for San Joseans to leave their mark on a piece of the city’s history.

Below are some of the concepts for the reimagining of the ride, which is expected to be complete later this year. If you are interested in learning more or contributing to the project, head over here!

Meet Donatello at San Jose's Happy Hollow Park & Zoo

Happy Hollow has a new resident, a capybara named Donatello. He got his name after picking up sticks with his mouth and swinging them around like a Ninja Turtle. Happy Hollow is also in the process of expanding the capybara habitat to include a larger yard and more vantage points for visitors. It should be ready later this year, but you can go visit Donatello right now.

It's amazing how many San Jose residents have never been to this cute little zoo. It's very nicely maintained and is the perfect size for toddlers and elementary school-aged kids. There is also a historic puppet theater, a handful of carnival-type rides, and a family roller coaster. It's also rarely crowded. If you have kids, it's the perfect outing to work into a weekend.

Source: SJ Today

Noon Year's Eve at Happy Hollow

There are not a lot of kid-friendly options for New Year's Eve, but there is one great one at San Jose's Happy Hollow Park and Zoo. They are doing a "Noon Year's Eve" with a countdown to noon instead of midnight on December 31st.

The early New Year celebrations runs from 11am to 1:30pm and includes games, crafts, activities, a ventriloquist magic show, and scavenger hunt. As expected, the countdown and ball drop happen at just before noon. It's a great family-friendly event that everyone can participate in.

For more info, head over here.

Frozen sing-along today at The Tech Interactive

The Tech Interactive is collaborating with Broadway San Jose for a sing-along event featuring what is still one of the most popular children's movies. Kids can belt out their favorite tunes and dance with Elsa, Anna, and Olaf during this one-day event. It runs from 10:30am-12:30pm at The Tech.

Rose, White & Blue Parade and Festival

San Jose's 4th of July "Rose, White & Blue" Parade and Festival is a beloved tradition along the Rose Garden neighborhood and The Alameda. The parade itself starts at 9:45am on Dana Avenue and then goes down Naglee and turns onto The Alameda. After the parade is a huge party near the end of the route.

The festival is wrapped around the Westminster Presbyterian Church and goes from 11am-3pm. The event includes dancing, pro wrestling, skateboarding lessons, live music, and a kids play area. The entertainment is accompanied by food trucks and vendors.

In addition to being patriotic, this event represents the multicultural diversity of San Jose and the amalgamation of many different communities. It's a beautiful event and a great way to start off the 4th of July!