Rock 'n' Roll San Jose: 20 Years of Rhythm and Speed in Silicon Valley

Course Overview | Rock 'n' Roll San Jose runrocknroll.com

The Rock 'n' Roll Running Series is taking over the streets on October 4 and 5. Thousands of runners from near and far gather to experience the thrill of racing through the city known as Speed City USA. With options like the half marathon, 10K, 5K, and even KiDS ROCK for the younger crowd, the event welcomes everyone from seasoned athletes chasing personal records to newcomers eager to join the fun. The flat courses make it accessible and fast, blending urban landscapes with touches of natural beauty that highlight what makes San Jose special.

Live bands and DJs stationed along the route turn the run into a moving concert, where every step syncs with upbeat tunes and cheers from enthusiastic crowds. Downtown San Jose comes alive with this fusion of music and motion, creating an atmosphere that captures the city's innovative spirit. Runners weave through familiar neighborhoods, fueled by the support of local fans and cheer squads that line the sidewalks. This setup not only boosts performance but also fosters a sense of community, reminding participants why San Jose stands out as a place where people connect through shared passions.

Marking its 20th anniversary, the event pays homage to San Jose's rich track heritage from the legendary San Jose State teams of the 1960s. Elites and everyday runners alike appreciate the PR-friendly paths that have drawn top talent over the years. As the heart of Silicon Valley, San Jose uses occasions like this to showcase its blend of technology-driven progress and down-to-earth vitality. The celebration extends beyond the finish line, leaving lasting memories and inspiring more people to explore the city's dynamic side.

runrocknroll.com

Rock 'n' Roll San Jose | Rock 'n' Roll Running Series

For those looking ahead, the presale for next year's event is already open, offering a chance to lock in spots at great rates while supplies last. Whether you're lacing up for the first time or returning for another go, Rock 'n' Roll San Jose embodies the city's commitment to health, entertainment, and togetherness. For more info and tickets, head over here.

October's First Fridays Art Walk and Street Market in Downtown San Jose

Today, October 3rd from 5 to 10 PM, Downtown San Jose comes alive with the First Fridays Art Walk and the final Street MRKT indie urban art faire of the year. Centered in the SoFA District along South First Street, this free event invites everyone to explore galleries, museums, and open-air displays. Families and friends can wander through creative spaces that highlight the city's vibrant arts scene.

The Street MRKT transforms the street into a lively gathering spot with booths from local artists like Animate One by Isaac Bassard, The Belly Dance Guild, and Black Lantern Tattoo & Art Collective. Food options abound with trucks such as Cali Cool Hawaiian Shaved Ice, Daily Grind Burger, and Me Oi Food Truck. A beer garden stage features DJs including Chryptic, Jswizza, Lycan Catt, and Moray Rivers for an evening of music and energy.

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Participating venues offer diverse exhibitions that showcase global and local talent. Anno Domini presents surreal paintings by Susiyo from Indonesia and mixed-media works by Kazland from the UK. KALEID Gallery features Uriel Kaminitz's vibrant pieces on corporate themes, while MACLA hosts interactive installations by TATANE and a youth exhibition on street photography. The San Jose Institute of Contemporary Art displays AI-driven stories by Stephanie Dinkins, complete with an artists' mixer.

Further afield, the San Jose Museum of Quilts & Textiles exhibits award-winning quilts and basketry, and Chopsticks Alley Gallery celebrates heritage through collective art projects. Works/San Jose tackles climate issues with data-based artworks, and Phantom Galleries adds murals and photography in various spots. San Jose Jazz provides live performances, and Symphony San Jose offers an open rehearsal at the California Theater.

This event underscores San Jose's commitment to fostering creativity and community connections. Attendees can support artists directly, enjoy family-friendly activities, and experience the city's cultural depth in one night.

Hapa's Oktoberfest: A Festive Fall Kickoff in San Jose

San Jose welcomes the autumn season with Hapa's Oktoberfest, set for October 5 from noon until 9 p.m. at Hapa’s Brewing Company Creekside on Barack Obama Boulevard. This gathering brings together locals and visitors for a day filled with traditional German beers, liter lagers, and hearty pretzels alongside special food offerings.

Live music sets the tone throughout the afternoon and evening, encouraging attendees to join in games and friendly competitions like stein-holding contests. All are welcome (including well-behaved furry friends) and this event is free.

Supreme Crab Brings Cajun Seafood Feast to San Jose's Coleman Avenue

San Jose welcomes yet another new dining spot with Supreme Crab setting up at 625 Coleman Avenue at the Marketcenter. This location, once home to Sweet Tomatoes, now transforms into a haven for seafood lovers. Construction wraps up as the restaurant prepares to open its doors, complete with hiring for staff to serve the community. The addition marks an exciting expansion for the chain, bringing its popular concept further south along the peninsula.

The menu focuses on Cajun-style seafood sold by the pound, featuring fresh options like live crawfish, shrimp, lobster, and king crab. Diners can also enjoy a range of appetizers, wings, soups, and salads to complement the main attractions. This setup allows for customizable meals that cater to groups or individuals looking for a hearty, interactive experience. Supreme Crab's approach emphasizes quality ingredients prepared with that signature spicy kick, making it a go-to for those craving something different in the city's food landscape.

As the third outpost following successful spots in Redwood City and San Francisco, Supreme Crab positions itself conveniently near Trader Joe's and Blue Mango Thai restaurant.

supremecrab.net

Source: SVBJ

Westfield Valley Fair Welcomes COS and More Exciting Stores to San Jose

San Jose's Westfield Valley Fair Mall expands its appeal with the recent opening of COS on October 3, marking the London-based brand's first location in Northern California and third in the state overall. Owned by H&M Group, which already operates a store in the mall since last year, COS brings contemporary fashion options that blend timeless designs with modern touches. This addition draws shoppers seeking quality pieces, enhancing the mall's reputation as a premier destination in Silicon Valley where variety meets convenience.

Several other brands prepare to join the lineup, including FP Movement as the activewear extension of Free People, which maintains an existing presence at Valley Fair. Beyond Yoga arrives with its workout apparel, building on its single Bay Area spot in Walnut Creek to offer comfortable, stylish gear for fitness enthusiasts. MANGO also gears up for an October debut in a spacious 9,000-square-foot storefront created by combining four units, promising fresh trends for diverse tastes. These arrivals build momentum, inviting locals and visitors to explore evolving retail experiences.

The momentum follows summer highlights like the Hello Kitty Cafe and Alamo Drafthouse, which have already added fun and entertainment to the mix. Such developments position Westfield Valley Fair as a vibrant hub that combines shopping, dining, and leisure, reflecting San Jose's dynamic growth. With these enhancements, the mall strengthens community ties and attracts crowds eager to discover what the city offers.

As San Jose continues to thrive, spots like Westfield Valley Fair showcase its ability to adapt and innovate in retail. The new stores provide reasons for repeated visits, more so than traditional shopping.

bizjournals.com

Source: SVBJ

San Jose is the 14th Noisiest City in North America

A recent study ranks the noisiest cities across North America, drawing from factors like population density, traffic congestion, visitor return rates, and levels of noise and light pollution. San Jose landed at 14th place among U.S. cities with an overall score of 40.03 out of 100. The city's population density sits at 2,104 people per square kilometer, ranking 19th, while average monthly Google searches related to noise complaints come in at 8.490, placing 18th. Congestion levels hover at 29 percent, which is 14th overall.

Topping the U.S. list is New York City with a score of 88.15, driven by its extreme density of 10,612 people per square kilometer and elevated pollution metrics. Los Angeles follows at 67.31, fueled by 43 percent congestion and a population over 3.8 million. Miami rounds out the upper ranks at 51.33, boosted by its nightlife and 4,890 people per square kilometer. Even smaller spots like Providence and Honolulu appear in the top 20, showing that sound challenges affect various scales of urban life. In Canada, Toronto leads with 87.44, thanks to 3,088 people per square kilometer, 31 percent congestion, and a pollution score of 48.53. Montreal and Vancouver trail closely at 63.79 and 62.16.

Source: betway insider

San Jose State University Excels in Rankings and Welcomes Record Enrollment

San Jose State University earns high marks in the 2026 U.S. News and World Report Best Colleges rankings, securing top positions across multiple categories for schools in the West. This recognition builds on a strong year for the institution, located right in the center of Silicon Valley. The accolades reflect the university's focus on quality education, support for diverse groups, and overall value, drawing attention to its role in preparing students for success in high-demand fields.

Among the standout achievements, San Jose State ranks as the number three public university in the West and number three best college for veterans in the region. It also places at number four as a regional university and number nine for best value in the West. These positions come from evaluations based on data from sources like the U.S. Department of Education, highlighting areas such as teaching excellence and accessibility. For the second year in a row, the university has maintained top-ten status in several lists, signaling consistent progress.

Enrollment at San Jose State reaches 40,000 students this academic year, marking an eight percent rise from the previous year and setting a new record. This growth contrasts with declining numbers across the broader California State University system, which has seen a nearly three percent drop over the past decade due to factors like the pandemic. The increase at San Jose State points to its appealing programs and prime location, where graduates often secure jobs in thriving industries nearby.

Money Magazine awards the university a five-star rating based on 25 factors, placing it alongside institutions like UC Berkeley and UCLA. Such honors emphasize how San Jose State delivers transformative learning experiences that foster opportunity and community. As part of San Jose, the university contributes to the city's reputation as a hub for innovation and talent development. These accomplishments will invite more people to consider San Jose State as a pathway to rewarding careers in Silicon Valley.

blogs.sjsu.edu

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

Dave's Hot Chicken Adds Heat to San Jose's Village Oaks Neighborhood

Dave's Hot Chicken is now open at 5670 Cottle Road inside the Village Oaks Shopping Center. The ribbon-cutting ceremony on September 26 featured remarks from Councilmember Pamela Campos, celebrating the third location in the city alongside spots on Brokaw Road in North San Jose and Prospect Road in West San Jose. This Nashville-style spicy fried chicken franchise, which began in a Los Angeles parking lot in 2017, has grown into the nation's fastest-expanding chain, bringing bold flavors to local diners.

Local owners Sam and Trina Wong, who raised their four children in the Evergreen area, bring a personal touch to the venture. Sam graduated from Gunderson High School in 1988 after immigrating to the United States in 1983 and settling in the Blossom Hill area. The couple worked in fast food and retail as teenagers nearby, making this ownership a long-held aspiration. The Village Oaks area has seen significant growth with new restaurants, shops, and businesses, and the Wongs aim to contribute through community involvement, including partnerships with schools, youth sports, and various organizations for fundraising.

The city's support extends beyond the opening, with funding for a new Business Improvement District in Village Oaks. This special district allows business owners to pool resources for enhancements like street cleaning, security, and marketing to draw more visitors and boost economic activity. San Jose has added two such districts in the past year for the Monterey and Tully business neighborhoods, with plans for four more in the coming months covering The Alameda, Story Road, East Village, and Alum Rock/Santa Clara Street corridors.

Looking ahead, the new location hosts events like a Free Slider Giveaway on October 23, alongside ongoing efforts to create jobs and participate in local charity initiatives.

El Paseo de Saratoga Rises: Transforming San Jose's Landscape

Construction has started at at El Paseo de Saratoga, a major redevelopment turning a dated shopping center into a vibrant mixed-use community. Located along Saratoga Avenue and Lawrence Expressway near Westgate Center, this 10-acre site once held surface parking, big box stores, and an office building. Now, crews have begun demolition to make way for modern apartments, senior living facilities, and retail spaces that promise to enhance daily life for residents.

The project includes 772 apartments spread across two high-rise buildings, with the tallest reaching 12 stories and housing 398 units alongside 14,140 square feet of retail. A second 10-story structure adds 374 apartments and 17,450 square feet of ground-level shops. Complementing these is a seven-story senior care facility with 263 beds, designed to support comfortable living for older adults. A single-story Whole Foods grocery store anchors the commercial side, ensuring convenient access to fresh goods right in the neighborhood.

Thoughtful design elements elevate the development, such as floor-to-ceiling windows in the apartment towers accented by white metal panels, and balconies with brick veneer on the senior building. Public courtyards, landscaped pathways, and a park along Quito Road create inviting outdoor spaces for gatherings and relaxation. These features blend urban convenience with green areas, fostering a sense of community in southwest San Jose.

With amended plans approved by the city in December 2024, the transformation is well underway, though groundbreaking details remain forthcoming. Full construction will span nearly four years, ultimately replacing underused land with a dynamic urban village. Projects like this highlight San Jose's forward momentum, drawing more people to experience the city's blend of innovation and livability.

Sand Hill Property Company leads the effort in partnership with Holland Partners and Sunrise Senior Living, with architecture from Solomon Cordwell Buenz for the apartments and Lantz Boggio Architects for the senior facility.

sfyimby.com

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Source: SF YIMBY