MLV NorCal Chooses Tech CU Arena as Home Court for 2027

San Jose will serve as the official home city for MLV NorCal when the professional women’s volleyball team begins play in 2027. The announcement came Monday at a community event at San Pedro Square Market, where Mayor Matt Mahan joined founding owner Kerri Walsh Jennings and team president Heather Vaughan.

Tech CU Arena on South 10th Street will host the matches. The venue already serves as home ice for the San Jose Barracuda and offers an intimate setting well suited to volleyball. Walsh Jennings, a three-time Olympic gold medalist and San Jose native, described the city as home and expressed excitement about building a team the community can claim as its own.

The franchise belongs to a women-founded and women-led league that will expand to additional markets in 2027. Mayor Mahan noted that San Jose has recently added professional women’s soccer and hockey and now volleyball, calling the city a growing capital for women’s sports.

Fans can secure a Founding Season Ticket Holder deposit of $31, a figure that honors California’s place as the 31st state. The official team name, branding, and inaugural campaign will be revealed next month.

This addition gives Northern California its first professional indoor volleyball franchise and adds another live-sports option in the heart of the city.

Source: MLV

AES Drops Plans for Large Battery Storage Project in Coyote Valley

AES Corporation announced this week that it has canceled its proposed Jewelflower Battery Energy Storage System on a 128-acre site of prime farmland in North Coyote Valley near Morgan Hill. The 350-megawatt project would have placed hundreds of containerized lithium-ion battery units across roughly 40 acres of actively farmed land on San Jose’s southern edge.

The company cited a review of project economics, infrastructure needs, market conditions, community input, and long-term priorities. No permit application had been filed. Local opposition had grown steadily, with the Santa Clara Valley Open Space Authority voting unanimously in May against the plan. Authority leaders pointed to more than $160 million already invested by voters and agencies to protect wildlife corridors, groundwater recharge, climate resilience, and sustainable agriculture in the Coyote Valley Conservation Program area.

Parents at the nearby Charter School of Morgan Hill, state legislators including Senator Dave Cortese and Assemblymembers Ash Kalra and Gail Pellerin, and a petition that collected more than 2,200 signatures had also raised concerns about placing industrial-scale batteries so close to a school and inside a conserved landscape. A previous battery project known as Hummingbird had already been successfully moved to an industrial site behind the Open Space Authority’s San Jose headquarters, showing that better locations exist.

The cancellation keeps Coyote Valley’s open fields and hills available for the wildlife movement, farming, and public access that make the area a vital buffer and natural asset for San Jose and the South Bay. AES continues to pursue battery storage elsewhere in California, while this decision reinforces that energy infrastructure and protected landscapes can both advance when projects are sited with care.

Source: San Jose Inside

Sharks Lock In Long-Term Headquarters Right Across from SAP Center

The San Jose Sharks just closed on a downtown building that cements their headquarters in the city’s urban core for decades ahead. An affiliate of the team paid Google $10 million in cash for the two-story, 22,100-square-foot property at 450 West Santa Clara Street. The site sits directly across from the SAP Center, where the team plays its home games.

This purchase frees up valuable space inside the arena itself. The Sharks can now accelerate upgrades such as modernized locker rooms and other improvements that enhance the experience for fans who fill the stands. A standalone corporate office nearby gives the organization room to operate while the arena transformation continues.

San Jose Mayor Matt Mahan welcomed the move as a clear signal of commitment. Google’s vice president of global real estate also voiced support, noting the company’s pride in having the Sharks as neighbors and its own ongoing investment in the city. The transaction shows how longstanding local institutions can partner to keep activity and investment centered in Downtown San Jose.

The building originally formed part of Google’s early assembly of parcels for the ambitious Downtown West neighborhood. Although that larger vision has paused, the Sharks’ prominent new headquarters will still help energize the streetscape. The location ties directly into surrounding efforts around Creekside Socials, the Guadalupe River Park, and the evolving Diridon Station district.

Source: SiliconValley.com

San Jose Hosts the Biggest Watch Party for USMNT World Cup Knockout Match

Fans who followed the tournament buildup already sensed San Jose stepped up in a major way during the group stage. Now U.S. Soccer selected Soccer Celebration presented by El Camino Health in San Pedro Square Market as the official watch party site for the United States Men’s National Team Round of 32 clash against Bosnia and Herzegovina on Wednesday at 5 p.m. PT.

The decision fits the momentum that built over recent weeks. San Pedro Square Market served as the central gathering spot where more than 350,000 supporters turned out for group stage matches, including crowds that hit 25,000 for some USMNT games. Organizers added a fourth giant screen to the existing 450-square-foot video wall so everyone gains a clear view of the action. New soccer activities, partner zones and special activations from U.S. Soccer and the Earthquakes will keep the energy high throughout the evening.

This choice underscores how San Jose positioned itself as a premier destination for international soccer experiences. The city drew massive numbers at stadiums and public spaces alike, building on decades of hosting history that includes World Cup matches in past tournaments and consistent sellouts at local venues. Partnerships with the San José Sports Authority, the City of San José and the Bay Area Host Committee turned the market into a true community hub where families, longtime supporters and new fans shared the excitement.

The added elements transform the venue into an even stronger destination for this pivotal knockout game. Attendees can expect player appearances, interactive zones and the kind of electric atmosphere that makes watching together more memorable than anywhere else. Those who join the celebration contribute to the larger story of San Jose claiming its role as a soccer capital that delivers world-class events right in the heart of Downtown.

San Jose Will Host a Free Soccer Celebration at San Pedro Square as the FIFA World Cup Brings Major Economic Gains to Downtown

The FIFA World Cup will generate between $480 million and $630 million dollars in economic impact for the Bay Area and Downtown San Jose is preparing to capture a significant share of that activity over the next six weeks. Businesses throughout the area adjust staffing levels and supply chains now to handle the expected surge in visitors.

San Pedro Square will transform into the central gathering spot for soccer fans with the Soccer Celebration running from June 11 through July 19. Admission stays free, and more than ten thousand people already signed up for the June 11 opener between Mexico and South Africa. A twenty-seven-foot screen will rise above the square, funded in part by the San Jose Earthquakes along with hundreds of thousands of dollars in additional entertainment investments from the team and partners.

Restaurant leaders such as those at Nuvo Hospitality plan for sustained sales growth rather than single peak days. They draw on experience from Super Bowl 60, which delivered strong results thanks to effective promotion and good weather, while avoiding the overstaffing pitfalls seen during Super Bowl 50. The activation of the Entertainment Zone ordinance will allow to-go alcohol sales for outdoor consumption, a welcome change for big events like this.

This event highlights San Jose's growing role in international soccer, supported by its dedicated facilities and the current momentum of the San Jose Earthquakes near the top of the MLS standings. Families, friends, and visitors from around the world will find a welcoming space to share in the excitement of the planet's premier sporting event, all while boosting local establishments in the heart of Downtown San Jose.

Source: SVBJ

San Jose Secures a Professional Women’s Hockey League Franchise

San Jose has secured its place in the Professional Women’s Hockey League as the league’s 12th franchise. The announcement marks another step in the rapid growth of women’s professional hockey and positions the city as a key West Coast hub for the sport.

The new team will play its home games at SAP Center, the same venue undergoing a major renovation. This addition brings the PWHL to four West Coast teams, easing travel demands that have challenged existing clubs in Vancouver and Seattle.

All PWHL teams operate under TWG Global rather than local NHL ownership. The structure supports the league’s independent expansion while San Jose prepares to welcome players, staff, and fans in the coming seasons.

City leaders have linked the arrival of the team to broader plans for a sports and entertainment district in Downtown San Jose. Such developments aim to increase activity and economic vitality around the arena through mixed-use projects and improved fan experiences.

The combination of a new professional team, arena improvements, and district planning signals continued momentum for San Jose as a destination for sports and entertainment. Residents and visitors alike stand to benefit from the added energy these investments bring to the urban core.

Source: SVBJ

The Teal Reimagination Elevates SAP Center in Downtown San Jose

SAP Center will be completely renovated, shaped by the Teal Reimagination project. The San Jose Sharks launched this multi-year $425 million transformation to turn the arena into a more connected and immersive destination that anchors Downtown San Jose as a true civic landmark.

There will be dramatic upgrades that improve every moment of a visit. The team store triples in size with immersive displays, smoother circulation for easier shopping, and more Sharks pride. Distinct atmospheres unfold level by level, delivering vibrant energy on the main concourse and refined intimacy in premium areas (primarily underground). There will be a new outdoor concourse and additional entrance into the SAP Center to help reduce crowding.

Premium offerings will set a new standard. Private Cove Suites provide concierge-level retreats for hosting without missing the action. The Captain’s Lounge delivers direct sightlines into the player tunnel while the First Line Lounge brings high-energy ice views with all-inclusive elevated food and beverage. Three unique clubs on the Premier Level will add layered comfort and hospitality tailored to your preferences.

One of the most impressive proposed features is the exterior of the Shark Tank will actually look like a tank. The Teal Reimagination ensures SAP Center welcomes fans and visitors with experiences that match the passion of the Teal faithful and support the city’s long-term vision.

USWNT Set to Face Japan at PayPal Park in April

San Jose welcomes the U.S. Women's National Team back to PayPal Park for an international friendly against Japan on April 11, 2026. The match kicks off at 2:30 p.m., marking the seventh time the USWNT has played at this venue where they hold a strong 5-1-0 record. This event continues a longstanding rivalry that began in 1986, with memorable clashes in world finals during the 2010s and a recent quarterfinal in the 2024 Olympics where the U.S. secured a 1-0 victory en route to gold.

The game holds special significance for the Bay Area, as many USWNT players past and present have deep connections to the region. San Jose hosted the team's first match in California back in 1997 at Spartan Stadium, resulting in a decisive win over England. Now, PayPal Park serves as a hub for high-profile soccer, having recently featured CONCACAF Men's Gold Cup matches last summer with teams like the United States, El Salvador, Honduras, and Curaçao.

Mayor Matt Mahan emphasizes how such occasions establish San Jose as a destination where people come together for distinctive experiences. The USWNT coach expresses admiration for Japan's skilled play and team identity, adding to the anticipation. Fans can expect an energetic atmosphere that showcases the city's vibrant sports scene.

To purchase tickets: https://www.ticketmaster.com/us-womens-national-team-v-japan-san-jose-california-04-11-2026/event/1C00643496628F1A

Source: SVBJ

Silicon Valley Bid Shines: Potential Host for 2031 Women's World Cup

The Bay Area steps forward as a contender to host matches for the 2031 FIFA Women's World Cup, part of a joint bid from the United States, Mexico, Costa Rica, and Jamaica. This submission stands alone as the only proposal received by FIFA, paving the way for an expanded tournament featuring 48 nations for the first time. Levi's Stadium in Santa Clara and Oracle Park in San Francisco appear among 49 venues across 35 cities in the official bid book, with selections narrowing to about 20 sites in coming years.

This opportunity builds on the region's thriving women's sports scene, recognized in November as the top city for women's athletics in the U.S. by The Athletic. Bay FC shattered attendance records with over 40,000 fans at an August game in Oracle Park, while the Golden State Valkyries achieved historic feats in their debut WNBA season, including playoff qualification and sold-out home games. The Bay Area Host Committee works to amplify these events, fostering visibility, tourism, and community ties through sports.

Recent successes underscore the area's readiness, such as hosting the National Women's Soccer League championship on November 22 at PayPal Park in San Jose. Looking ahead, the 2026 Men's World Cup at Levi's Stadium brings exciting group stage action with Qatar facing Switzerland on June 13, Austria against Jordan on June 15, Paraguay versus a European playoff winner on June 18, Jordan meeting Algeria on June 22, and Australia challenging Paraguay on June 25, plus a round of 32 matchup on July 1. These gatherings set the stage for even greater impact in 2031.

The tournament promises substantial economic lift, with projections of at least $4 billion in revenue from ticket sales alone as the premier women's sporting event globally. For San Jose and surrounding communities, hosting would draw international crowds to local venues, hotels, and attractions, enhancing the city's profile amid Silicon Valley's innovation hub.

For additional information on the Bay Area's involvement, visit https://www.bayareahostcommittee.com/

Source: SVBJ

Super Bowl 60 Brings Major Events to San Jose and the Bay Area

Super Bowl 60 arrives at Levi's Stadium in Santa Clara on February 8, 2026, drawing attention to the region's blend of innovation and culture. The Bay Area Host Committee unveiled a series of activations designed to highlight the area's strengths as a host for global gatherings. With the game just months away, preparations ramp up to create memorable experiences for fans and locals alike.

San Jose takes center stage with Super Bowl Opening Night at the McEnery Convention Center on February 2, offering fans direct access to players from both teams. The city also organizes concerts, drone shows, and culinary highlights within walking distance of Downtown San Jose. Proximity to Levi's Stadium, just ten minutes from San Jose Mineta International Airport, makes the area a convenient hub for visitors.

Events spread across the Bay Area, with San Francisco hosting the Super Bowl Experience at Moscone Center North and South from February 3 to 7, the Pro Bowl Games on February 3, and the BAHC Live! San Francisco Fan Zone at Yerba Buena Gardens from February 3 to 7. Additional highlights include the NFL Culture Club at The Pearl from February 4 to 7, NFL Honors at Palace of Fine Arts on February 5, and the BAHC Super Bowl Innovation Summit at SFMOMA on February 6.

Partnerships with organizations like the East Bay Coalition, Visit Oakland, Visit Santa Cruz County, the San Francisco Peninsula, and Napa Valley Vintners ensure broad participation. The committee projects an economic impact between $370 million and $630 million, benefiting communities throughout the region.

The NFL Source program connects local businesses to opportunities such as catering, production, and vending tied to the game. This initiative focuses on creating lasting community benefits through networking and training.

San Jose's role in Super Bowl 60 fits into a packed 2026 schedule, including the NCAA Men's Basketball West Regionals and FIFA World Cup matches at Levi's Stadium. These events position the city as a prime destination for sports and entertainment.

For more information, visit https://www.sfbayareasuperbowl.com/

Golden State Valkyries Block Party Today

Golden State Valkyries take the court for their first-ever playoff game, SJDA is hosting a pregame Block Party, for all fans, with, or without a game ticket. This is more than just a pregame party; it’s a chance for Valkyries fan to unite, share its passion, and build an electric atmosphere that will carry our team to victory. Come early, be loud, and get ready to be a part of this historic moment in Bay Area sports.

Enjoy good music, outdoor games, face painting, poster making, food, take some shots on our sports court, and so much more.

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

Levi's Stadium Gets $200M in Upgrades

Levi's Stadium in Santa Clara stands ready to elevate the South Bay's sports scene with a $200 million transformation. The San Francisco 49ers have introduced enhancements that promise to redefine game days, starting with a revamped team store that offers more space and a wider selection of merchandise. Fans can now shop effortlessly thanks to a cashier-less checkout system, making the experience smoother and more enjoyable for everyone attending events.

Technology takes center stage in these updates, including a state-of-the-art control room equipped with 39 high-quality cameras and a robust IP-based network. This setup powers 55 million pixels across 2,300 televisions throughout the stadium, ensuring crystal-clear views from concourses to suites. The new 4K video boards, along with upgraded ribbon boards and lighting, will immerse spectators in the action, boosting the energy for both players and fans.

These improvements arrive just in time for major events like Super Bowl LX and the FIFA World Cup, which are expected to bring significant economic benefits to the region. The stadium has already contributed $2 billion in economic impact and created over 12,000 jobs since opening, underscoring its role in driving growth. Additional perks, such as modernized suites and complimentary wine tastings from top-tier wineries at Appellation 49, add a touch of luxury to the hospitality offerings.

With the first post-renovation events already underway, including a Concacaf Gold Cup match, the stadium is set to host the 49ers' regular-season opener against the Arizona Cardinals on September 21. This makeover not only strengthens the home field advantage but also positions the area as a premier destination for world-class sports and entertainment, benefiting communities across San Jose and beyond.

Source: SVBJ

Soccer in San Jose

Visit San Jose has just released a video promoting soccer in San Jose. It's only 90 seconds long, and highlights tailgating, PayPal Park, and our awesome Earthquakes fanbase. Enjoy it embedded below.

San Jose's PayPal Park and Levi's Stadium will host yet another major soccer event

All the buzz might be around the World Cup coming here in 2026, but other major soccer events continue to be booked for Silicon Valley as well. 

Both PayPal Park and Levi's Stadium will host matches for the 2025 Gold Cup, which will be held between June 14th and July 6th. The exact dates of the games will be released at a later time.

The Gold Cup is played every two years and will include 16 teams from North America, Central America, and the Caribbean. If you are lucky enough to have a season pass for the San Jose Earthquakes, you will have access to a presale for the matches that take place at PayPal Park.

Source: SVBJ

Sharks first annual Neighborhood Game

The San Jose Sharks are hosting a special pre-season game on Sep 24th with unique programming and activation to encourage new attendees and fans. The game (against the Anaheim Ducks) will only cost $25. Community organizations, non-profits, and schools might even be able to score free tickets.

The game starts at 7pm, but the pregame activities go between 5:15 and 6:15pm. These include participation from current Sharks players as well as alumni. There will also be unique in-game content highlighting the greater Bay Areas communities.

For more info head over here.

Levi's Stadium is getting $200M in upgrades before hosting both the Super Bowl and World Cup

Two of the largest sporting events in the world are coming to Levi's Stadium in 2026: the Super Bowl and multiple World Cup games. In fact it will be the only stadium to ever host both of those events in the same year. The 49ers and Levi's Stadium have recently announced major upgrades to the stadium--which originally cost $1.3 billion to build over 10 years ago.

It will get the largest 4K display in the entire league coming in at 13,000 SQFT. The stadium will also get a new LED field lighting system that will brighten playing surfaces for primetime games. Stadium and club areas will have a refreshed look and feel, and some of those upgrades will be in place this season.

Also part of the upgrade list is faster WiFi with 1,300 new access points as well as improved cellular services with new 5G systems by Verizon. The main concourse will get cashierless food and beverage stands to speed up service. There will be two new open-air patio bars and 120 remodeled luxury suites.

The total cost clocks in around $200 million. 90% of that will be financed by the 49ers and 10% will be from the Santa Clara Stadium Authority.

Source: San Jose Inside

Sharks Sidewalk Sale Aug 31st

The Sharks are doing a sidewalk sale this Saturday from 11am to 4pm. It's happening at 1500 S. 10th Street just south of Downtown San Jose and right outside Sharks Ice. There will also be Barracuda gear and a raffle for prizes.

Levi's Stadium to host Six (!) World Cup matches in 2026

Levi's Stadium is going to have an amazing year in 2026. Not only are they hosting Super Bowl 60, but they will be hosting six World Cup games. Five will be group-stage matches and one will be a round of 32 match.

The first group stage match at Levi's is scheduled for June 13 and the round of 32 match will be held on July 1st.

Unfortunately, the US National Team will not start their journey at Levi's. They have two group-stage matches in SoFi Stadium in LA and another at Lumen Field in Seattle. Mexico and Canada will also play their initial group-stage games in their home countries. So that means all of the first five games will involve teams outside of North America. The benefit is the sheer amount of International tourism that will come to the San Jose metro for the game. 

2026 is shaping up to be a great year for sports fans in Silicon Valley!

Source: SVBJ

Super Bowl viewing parties in San Jose

If you are still looking for a place to watch the big game tonight, there are plenty of options in Downtown San Jose. Here is a list with links:

Littlest Little Italy   |   Parking

Tiki Pete’s   |   Parking
Five Points   |   Parking

SP2 Communal Bar & Restaurant    |   Parking

FUZE Nightclub   |  Parking

Cash Only |   Parking

Sushi Confidential   |   Parking

SPLASH   |   Parking

GlassHouse   |  Parking

In North San Jose you have Blast and Brew, which is one of my favorite spots. You can enjoy excellent American Indian fusion foods and over two dozen beers on tap that you pour yourself (pay per oz.) while watching the game. This event is free to get in.

Rosie McCanns Irish Pub in Santana Row will also have a free Super Bowl watch party going on.

Source: The Downtowner