San Jose Wishlist - Halloween in the Park (Part XVII)

As Halloween approaches, it is time to resurrect one of my favorite wishlist items for San Jose. "Halloween in the Park."

Halloween is my favorite holiday of the year. It's the one day where you get to interact with your neighbors and the wider community. The level of creativity in decorations and costumes is also the most eclectic and interesting out of all the holidays for me--whether that's for trick-or-treating, Halloween parties, or work events.

In October it's tradition for The San Jose Blog have a wish-list post for Halloween in the Park. The idea is to build on the momentum that Christmas in the Park brings to San Jose each year and create something of similar scale for the month of October. A lot of the infrastructure such as wiring, lighting, and booths might even be able to be shared between the events. The goal would be to make Downtown San Jose the epicenter of October Halloween experiences, much as it is today with Christmas in the Park.

Below you will find brainstorming ideas we have collected for this concept so far over the years. Please have a look and provide your feedback and suggestions in the comments or on X (Twitter). Thanks!

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The largest draw to Downtown San Jose for many years now has been Christmas in the Park. It has continued to grow year after year and brings in visitors from all over the Bay Area. It's economic impact is substantial and helps keep many Downtown businesses and restaurants alive.

What would you think about a similar event for Halloween? Picture Downtown lit up in orange and purple with elaborate Halloween displays assembled by local artists. Perhaps infrastructure could even be shared with Christmas in the Park (e.g. retail booths). A strong event in October would help maintain traffic between the summer months and Christmas in the Park. Here are the ideas we have so far:

• Animated Halloween Displays
• Created by local artists
• Analogous to the Christmas displays that attract many families during Christmas in the Park (almost half a million visitors)
• Family friendly so that everyone can enjoy it (PG/PG13, perhaps around the same level as Great America's Halloween decorations)
• Halloween Lighting
• Orange, purple, and green LED lighting on trees
• May be possible to use programmable LED lighting that can go from Halloween colors to Christmas colors with the push of a button, allowing the lights to stay up for Christmas in the Park as well and reducing setup/take-down costs.
• Halloween Food
• Booths with candied apples, chocolates, candy, pumpkin seeds, etc.
• Food trucks
• Trick-or-treating station - a free piece of candy to anyone wearing a costume any day in October (could also be used to hand out promotional flyers for Downtown events/businesses/resources)
• Retail Booths selling Halloween items, for example:
• Artwork (paintings, glass pumpkins, etc.)
• Home decor/crafts like candles
• Light-up hats/necklaces/bracelets
• Costumes
• Zombie/Halloween make-up station 
• Halloween-themed Carnival Games
• Pirates of Emerson and Candlelighters (Fremont) do a good job of providing family-friendly games themed around Halloween
• A handful of children's rides could also be added to the Paseo and reused for Christmas in the Park
• Interactive Art
• Subzero-style, but with a Halloween spin.
• Halloween-themed video game kiosks and/or arcades
• Pumpkins
• Instead of the sponsored Christmas trees in Christmas in the Park, how about decorated Pumpkins (can even be Styrofoam so there is no mess/decay)?
• Pumpkin carving station for families. 
• Pumpkin carving contest.
• Costumed Entertainers
• Walking around the area, not necessarily scaring people but adding to the ambiance and providing photo opportunities for families
• Haunts / Mazes
• Would be ideal if these were nearby, perhaps in vacant retails spaces, surface parking lots, the San Jose Convention Center tent, or at SJSU.
• Could partners with one of the established San Jose haunt providers such as the Winchestor Mystery House or The Bernal SCREAM.
• Potential Events
• Zombie Crawl / 5k Run
• Dia De Los Muertos Events (already quite a few today)
• Halloween/Dia De Los Muertos Bike Party
• Horror Movie Trivia Contest
• Weekly horror movie screening (perhaps in the Circle of Palms area?)
• Costume Ball
• Pet costume contests and pet-friendly events

Inspirations:

• Winchester Mystery House Unhinged
• Candle Lighters
• Pirates of Emerson
• The Great Jack O'Lantern Blaze (photos below)

Cadence Boosts San Jose State University's AI Innovation Hub with Key Partnership

San Jose State University has secured a multiyear collaboration with Cadence Design Systems to enhance its upcoming artificial intelligence innovation hub, set to open by summer 2026. This alliance joins efforts from companies like Nvidia and Adobe, positioning the University as a central player in Silicon Valley's tech landscape. Cadence, already present on campus through its IC Design Laboratory, will provide AI design software and digital twin technology, described as virtual replicas that help identify inefficiencies in real-world systems.

The hub aims to serve students across various fields, from engineering and computer science to healthcare and social sciences, allowing them to explore AI applications for practical challenges. For instance, the university's work with the city of San Jose and Nvidia on a digital twin of the city models infrastructure layers, including underground utilities, streets, and buildings, to simulate scenarios like wildfires for better emergency planning. This partnership expands those capabilities, leveraging Cadence's expertise in digital twins to foster innovative problem-solving.

San Jose's broader push to lead in AI includes initiatives like the Plug & Play business incubator, where entrepreneurs develop startups with venture support. As the region's largest public university, SJSU takes on the role of equipping graduates with skills for human-centered AI use, aligning with the city's tech-driven growth. This development not only prepares the workforce but also draws talent to San Jose, strengthening its reputation as an innovation epicenter.

With investments like this, San Jose continues to build an ecosystem where education and industry intersect seamlessly. Students gain hands-on access to cutting-edge tools, while companies like Cadence contribute to community impact while training potential future employees.

Source: SVBJ

Silicon Valley Asian Art Center Opens in Downtown San Jose

Downtown San Jose welcomed a new cultural gem with the opening of the Silicon Valley Asian Art Center at 150 East Santa Clara Street on October 17. The midday ribbon-cutting ceremony featured remarks from Mayor Matt Mahan, Councilmember Anthony Tordillos, Assemblymember Ash Kalra, representatives from the San Jose Downtown Association, and owner Jianhua Shu. This event marked the expansion of the center from its original Santa Clara location, established in 2004, which has long showcased modern and ancient artworks. The new space shifts emphasis to contemporary and digital arts, enriching the city's artistic offerings.

The opening coincided with the reception for Zheng Chongbin: The Field of Shui Mo, an exhibition displaying 16 works by the acclaimed artist, including paintings, videos, and monoprints. The highlight, Chimeric Landscape from 2012, measures 180 by 720 centimeters across multiple panels and appeared in the United States for the first time. Zheng Chongbin attended the event and shared insights into his creations, drawing attendees into a world of innovative expression that blends traditional techniques with modern forms.

Founder Jianhua Shu brings extensive experience to the venture, having served as an art advisor, co-curator, and former editor and producer with a portfolio of over 70 books and more than 100 exhibitions. Since its inception, the Santa Clara center has hosted over 200 shows, promoting Chinese American art globally and collaborating with major museums in China. This background fuels the new location's mission to foster cultural exchange through displays of Asian and international artists.

Visitors to the Downtown San Jose gallery can anticipate programming that encourages dialogue between cultures and makes art approachable for locals and professionals alike. Downtown's central role in Silicon Valley, where technology meets diverse communities, provides an ideal setting for such a space. The center aims to enhance the area's cultural vitality and accessibility.

Tai Er Sichuan Cuisine Expands to Westfield Valley Fair in San Jose

Westfield Valley Fair shoppers will soon enjoy authentic Sichuan flavors with the November opening of Tai Er Sichuan Cuisine in the mall's luxury wing. This marks the brand's second Bay Area location following a successful debut in San Mateo earlier this year. With over 650 sites worldwide and existing U.S. outposts in Los Angeles and New York, Tai Er chose the South Bay for its diverse and innovative community, where global tastes find a ready audience.

The new Santa Clara spot features around 100 seats in a contemporary setting that echoes the San Mateo design, selected for its prime visibility among high-end retailers. Diners can expect an immersive experience that transports them to southwest China through bold dishes and welcoming ambiance. Joining other Asian-inspired eateries like Stick & Wok and Din Tai Fung, Tai Er stands out with its focus on traditional preparations that highlight regional authenticity.

At the heart of the menu sits the signature sauerkraut fish, crafted from small-leaf mustard greens and sauerkraut imported from Sichuan province and fermented for 23 days in clay jars with salt and sugar. This base simmers in pork-bone broth with snakehead fish, finished with dry chili flakes for a tangy, spicy profile. Other highlights include tomato fish fillet and clay pot shrimp, offering variety for repeat visits.

This company-owned restaurant will create 60 to 80 jobs in front- and back-of-house roles, contributing to San Jose's thriving economy. As part of a strategic U.S. growth plan, the opening emphasizes quality over quantity, targeting cities that value culture and community. San Jose's inclusion in this expansion underscores its appeal as a hub for international cuisine.

Source: SVBJ

San Jose Sees Brighter Days Ahead with Community-Focused Progress

Recent surveys from the Bay Area News Group and Joint Venture Silicon Valley show a notable change in resident outlook, with more people feeling the region heads in the right direction than not for the first time in five years. In San Jose, this shift stems from targeted efforts since 2023, including building nearly 2,000 shelter units that reduced unsheltered homelessness by over 20 percent. The city has also stepped up enforcement of quality-of-life crimes, bolstered police recruitment, and integrated technology to streamline services, all while encouraging thousands of residents to join cleanup and beautification projects.

On the safety front, San Jose Police Department recently arrested eight suspects involved in a smash-and-grab at Kim Hung Jewelry, part of a broader wave of similar incidents across California since March. This action underscores the city's commitment to accountability, maintaining its status as the safest big city in the nation. Mayor Matt Mahan continues to push for state-level reforms like Proposition 36 to address addiction-driven crime more effectively, ensuring offenders face appropriate consequences rather than quick releases.

Innovation plays a key role in these advancements, with artificial intelligence accelerating everything from bus operations to grant applications and housing permits. An upcoming webinar on October 22 at 6:30 p.m. will educate residents on AI's role in city services, privacy safeguards, and personal use tips. Relaunched public safety dashboards provide transparent data access, with similar tools for homelessness, housing, economic growth, and neighborhood cleanliness set to follow soon.

These steps reflect San Jose's dedication to five core priorities: enhancing safety, tackling homelessness, maintaining clean spaces, expanding housing, and boosting the economy. While challenges remain, such as persistent street encampments and high living costs, the progress builds momentum toward a city where quality of life and opportunities thrive. Residents can see tangible results that foster pride and involvement.

Source: Matt Mahan's Oct 10th Message

Lucid Group Celebrates Grand Opening of New San Jose Studio and Service Center

Lucid Group marked a milestone yesterday with the grand opening of its first San Jose studio and service center at 250 Stockton Avenue. This facility expands the company's Bay Area presence, joining existing studios at Westfield Valley Fair Mall and in Newark, near headquarters. The event drew attention with appearances from company executives, a ribbon cutting ceremony, and demonstration drives of the Lucid Air sedan and Lucid Gravity SUV, allowing attendees to experience these electric vehicles firsthand.

The 92,500-square-foot building, originally constructed in 1966 and remodeled in August 2023, now serves as a hub for vehicle servicing in the San Jose area. Previously, the nearest service option was in Millbrae, making this addition a convenient boost for local owners. Lucid's move aligns with a recent surge in electric vehicle sales, where the company reported a 46.6 percent increase in third-quarter deliveries amid broader industry growth from brands like General Motors, Ford, and Toyota.

San Jose's role in the EV landscape grows stronger with developments like this, as Lucid pushes forward with partnerships to develop domestic battery materials and collaborations with Nuro and Uber for robotaxi services. These initiatives highlight the city's position at the forefront of sustainable transportation, drawing innovators and enthusiasts alike. This new center not only supports Lucid owners but also contributes to San Jose's economy by creating jobs and fostering tech-driven progress.

Lucid is also not the only EV company with significant operations in San Jose. It's a little known fact that before Tesla chose their Fremont site, their first choice was to open a manufacturing facility in North San Jose. State-level politics and policies ended that option, but at least the first Tesla store ever was in San Jose (Santana Row). Nio also has their US Headquarters in North San Jose.

Source: SVBJ

San Jose Hosts the Largest Vietnamese Community Outside Vietnam

Recent estimates place San Jose's Vietnamese population at around 145,000 residents, making it the single city with the most Vietnamese people anywhere in the world beyond Vietnam's borders. This distinction comes from analyses of U.S. Census data by organizations like the Pew Research Center, highlighting how the city has become a thriving center for Vietnamese Americans. While regions like the Los Angeles metropolitan area boast larger overall numbers at about 350,000, no other individual city matches San Jose's count. Smaller California locales such as Garden Grove and Westminster show higher per capita concentrations, yet their totals fall short.

The story of this community traces back to the mid-1970s, following the Fall of Saigon, when waves of refugees sought new beginnings in the United States. Many settled in Texas and California, with San Jose drawing particular interest due to emerging job opportunities in the budding Silicon Valley tech scene. Over decades, these early arrivals built strong networks, turning neighborhoods into vibrant enclaves that preserve traditions while integrating into the local fabric. Today, areas like Little Saigon pulse with markets, restaurants, and temples that reflect a rich heritage.

San Jose's Vietnamese residents contribute immensely to the city's dynamism, from entrepreneurship in tech and business to culinary innovations that draw food enthusiasts from afar. Pho shops, banh mi stands, and family-run enterprises line streets, offering authentic flavors that make the South Bay a destination for global cuisine. Festivals and cultural events throughout the year celebrate this legacy, inviting everyone to participate and learn, which strengthens community ties across diverse backgrounds.

Source: San Jose Spotlight

Sweet New Arrivals at Santana Row: Gelato and Doughnuts on the Horizon

Santana Row continues to draw crowds with its mix of shopping and dining options, and now two new dessert destinations are set to join the lineup. Bacio di Latte, a gelato brand originating from Brazil, plans to open its doors in early February, bringing authentic flavors to the retail hub that straddles San Jose and Santa Clara. This addition complements the area's growing collection of international tastes, giving locals another spot to indulge in creamy treats made with care.

Johnny Doughnuts, known for its handcrafted selections, is also preparing to launch at Santana Row, expanding its Bay Area presence from locations in San Francisco, Larkspur, Santa Rosa, and San Rafael. The chain has garnered recognition from outlets like the Food Network as one of the top doughnut spots nationwide and from the San Francisco Chronicle for its standout offerings in the region. While an exact opening date remains unconfirmed, this move signals more variety for San Jose visitors seeking fresh baked goods.

Source: SVBJ

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.

New Law Sparks Growth Opportunities Near San Jose Transit Stations

Governor Gavin Newsom recently signed Senate Bill 79 into law, setting the stage for increased residential density around transit hubs in eight California counties, including Santa Clara. This measure, authored by State Senator Scott Wiener, enables developers to construct taller and denser housing projects within a half-mile radius of qualifying rail stops, bypassing some local zoning limits. For San Jose residents, this opens doors to more vibrant neighborhoods where living close to public transportation becomes easier and more appealing.

The law targets counties with over 15 passenger rail stations, a threshold Santa Clara County meets with its extensive network of BART, Caltrain, and VTA light rail options. Projects under SB 79 must include affordable units if they exceed a certain size, ensuring broader access to housing. This approach addresses California's housing shortage by prioritizing development in areas already served by efficient transit, which could reduce reliance on cars and ease traffic congestion in the South Bay.

Details of the upzoning vary by transit type. Around Tier 1 stops like BART and Caltrain, buildings can reach up to nine stories near the station entrance, seven stories within a quarter mile, and six stories out to a half mile. For Tier 2 stops, such as light rail lines, the heights are slightly lower, topping out at eight stories adjacent to the stop. These provisions apply to sites zoned for residential, mixed-use, or commercial purposes, provided they meet density and affordability criteria.

San Jose stands to benefit greatly from this initiative, fostering communities that blend urban convenience with sustainable living. As the city expands its transit infrastructure, including extensions to key areas, SB 79 supports a future where more people can call San Jose home without sacrificing accessibility or adding to traffic gridlock. The result could be a more lively cityscape that showcases San Jose's potential as a leader in smart urban development.

Source: SVBJ