Summer Nights in SoFA: Discover the Pobladores Night Market

Every Thursday night from June 12 to July 31, 2025, Downtown San Jose’s SoFA District comes alive with the Pobladores Night Market. Held at Parque de los Pobladores (501 S 1st St & William St) from 5:30 to 9 p.m., this open-air event offers a fresh way to experience the city’s creative pulse. Whether you’re a local looking for a new weeknight hangout or a visitor eager to explore, this free market welcomes everyone to dive into a vibrant mix of culture, food, and community.

Wander through the market and you’ll find 20 local makers, artists, and small businesses showcasing their talents. From handcrafted goods to one-of-a-kind creations, these stalls highlight the ingenuity thriving in San Jose. Live music and cultural performances set the tone, while art galleries open their doors for a dose of inspiration. Hungry? Food trucks roll in with diverse, delicious options, and a laid-back beer garden provides a spot to sip and unwind. It’s a snapshot of what makes Downtown San Jose a hub of innovation and connection.

The Pobladores Night Market isn’t just about shopping or eating, though. It’s a chance to feel the energy of the SoFA District and meet the people who shape it. Bring friends, strike up conversations, or simply soak in the atmosphere. Each Thursday offers a new opportunity to discover something unexpected, whether it’s a performance that moves you or a dish you can’t stop talking about.

There is plenty of parking nearby and it's free after 6pm at the First Street & I-280 lot. All street parking spots are also free after 6pm.

Toastique will Bring Gourmet Health Food to San Pedro Square in 2026

A fresh addition is coming to Downtown San Jose’s vibrant San Pedro Square. Toastique, a health-focused cafe known for its gourmet toast, smoothie bowls, and cold-pressed juices, will soon occupy the former Starbucks storefront at 145 W. Santa Clara St. This high-visibility spot, nestled in the heart of a bustling pedestrian zone, promises to elevate the area’s reputation as a culinary hub with its innovative menu and commitment to fresh, responsibly sourced ingredients.

The San Jose location, set to open in 2026, marks Toastique’s expansion into the South Bay through Bay Area-based Well Nourish LLC. The cafe’s arrival fills a vacancy left by Starbucks, which closed its doors on January 5, and introduces a new dining experience to one of Downtown’s most dynamic neighborhoods. San Pedro Square’s mix of restaurants, bars, and community energy makes it an ideal home for Toastique’s fresh approach to fast-casual dining.

Toastique stands out with its creative take on health food. Diners can expect artfully crafted toasts topped with ingredients like avocado, smoked salmon, or peanut butter with fresh fruit, alongside nutrient-packed smoothie bowls and vibrant juices. The menu caters to those seeking convenient, wholesome options without sacrificing flavor. With four existing California locations, including one in nearby Danville, Toastique has already built a following for its visually appealing and nourishing dishes.

This opening reflects Downtown San Jose’s growing appeal as a destination for innovative eateries. The addition of Toastique not only diversifies the local food scene but also reinforces San Pedro Square’s role as a gathering place for residents and visitors alike. As the city continues to evolve, establishments like Toastique contribute to a lively, health-conscious community that celebrates quality and creativity in every bite.

Source: SVBJ

San Jose's Symphony of Sounds: Make Music Day 2025

On Saturday, June 21st, San Jose transforms into a vibrant stage for Make Music San Jose. This annual celebration of free music brings over 100 performances to 37 venues across the city. Part of a global event spanning more than 1,000 cities in 120 countries, it showcases music’s ability to unite people and fill the streets with sound.

Diversity defines this day. At the Cypress Center near Valley Fair, the Bay Area Showcase Chorus delivers barbershop harmonies alongside rock and Celtic folk from the Santa Clara Valley Fiddlers Association, running from 11am to 5pm. Over in West San Jose, Writers Bench Alley hosts indie rock and hip hop from 3pm to 7:30pm, its graffiti-covered walls setting the scene for a younger crowd. The San Jose Museum of Art offers blues, bluegrass, and circle singing from noon to 5pm, while Japantown’s Ukulele Source features the Ukoolladies and Wesley Ukulele Club from 11am to 1pm. For a cultural twist, Cunningham Lake Park presents mariachi music from 1:30pm to 2:45pm, organized by local influencer Hanny.

Want a taste of the action early? Head to the Pobladores Night Market in Downtown San Jose’s SoFA district on Thursday, June 19, from 5:30pm to 9pm. Organized by Filco Presents, this preview event features live music and sets the tone for Saturday’s citywide celebration.

Make Music San Jose goes beyond performances. It’s a chance for the community to connect through creativity and shared experiences. Musicians of all levels and music lovers alike can dive into the city’s rich soundscape.

Five Below Opens New Store in San Jose

On June 13, this trend-right, extreme-value retailer opened its doors, offering a shopping experience that promises affordability for kids, tweens, teens, and anyone young at heart. Located at 352 N Capitol Ave, the store is perfectly positioned to become a go-to spot for locals looking to score amazing deals on everything from candy and toys to tech and beauty products.

What sets this location apart is the addition of a Party Shop, complete with helium balloons, décor, and favors. Planning a birthday bash or a spontaneous celebration? You’ll find everything you need right here, blending convenience with the store’s signature low prices. Beyond the party supplies, the shelves are stocked with goodies across eight unique categories: Style, Room, Sports, Tech, Create, Party, Candy, and New & Now. It’s a treasure trove of trendy finds that won’t break the bank.

The store is open Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., Five Below makes it easy to drop in and explore their wide range of products, most of which are priced between $1 and $5, with some standout items going slightly higher for even more value.

Pet Party: A Celebration of Pets and Community in San Jose

San Jose is gearing up to host a one-of-a-kind event that celebrates the love we have for our furry, feathery, and scaly companions. The Pet Party, organized by MOMENT, is coming to town, bringing with it a vibrant mix of creativity, community, and pet-centric fun. This event highlights the unique spirit of San Jose, showcasing local talent and fostering connections among animal lovers.

The Pet Party features over 20 makers, artists, and small businesses, each offering their own pet-inspired creations. Expect to find a variety of art, accessories, and goods tailored to pet enthusiasts. Attendees can enjoy interactive experiences like a pet portrait photo booth by @y2kglamshotz and live pet commissions drawn by @joiecreative. Live music from @christianfrancisco.mp3 will fill the air, keeping the energy high throughout the day.

Mark your calendars for Saturday, June 14th, from 12 PM to 5 PM. The event takes place at MOMENT San Pedro Square, and the first 100 visitors will receive a special 5” x 7" art print featuring the event’s poster artwork—a perfect memento for pet lovers. This gathering offers a chance to not only indulge in your passion for pets but also support the talented individuals and businesses that make San Jose’s local scene so dynamic.

Boosting Affordable Housing in San Jose: Housing Trust Launches New Grant Program

Housing Trust Silicon Valley just rolled out an exciting initiative called the Capital for Capacity Grant Program on June 11, 2025. This program is all about empowering community-based housing developers with grants of up to $50,000. The goal? To help them grow stronger, secure more funding, and build affordable housing that makes a real difference in the Bay Area, including right here in our city.

What makes this program stand out is how it tackles the challenges developers face head-on. These grants will support improvements in financial systems, staff skills, project management, and partnerships. Over the next 12 to 18 months, Housing Trust will work hand-in-hand with grantees to set goals, track progress, and even connect them with peers to share ideas. One of the lucky recipients is a San Jose gem: the School of Arts and Culture at Mexican Heritage Plaza. This local favorite, alongside other Bay Area groups like Black Cultural Zone in East Oakland and The Unity Council in Oakland, will get the boost they need to bring more affordable homes to life.

Affordable housing is a hot topic, and this program means more chances for people to stay and thrive in our community. With support from First Citizens Bank, The Wells Fargo Foundation, U.S. Bank, and Chinatrust Banking Corporation, Housing Trust is laying the groundwork for a stronger, more inclusive Bay Area. 

Want to dig deeper into how Housing Trust is shaping our region’s future? Check out housingtrustsv.org for the full scoop on their efforts.

Downtown San Jose Comes Alive with the 42nd Fountain Blues & Brews Festival

Get ready for a weekend packed with music, flavor, and fun in the heart of Downtown San Jose! The 42nd Fountain Blues & Brews Festival is hitting Plaza de César Chavez on June 14 and 15, marking its expansion to two full days of celebration. As Northern California’s longest-running blues festival, this event brings together 16 incredible acts, 40 craft beers, 12 food vendors, and over 20 artisans. 

The music lineup promises something special. Headliners Christone “Kingfish” Ingram and Walter Trout will take the stage, delivering performances that blend blues with rock and soul. With 16 acts in total, the variety keeps the energy high all weekend long. Families can also enjoy the Musical Instrument Petting Zoo, where kids (and adults!) can try out different instruments. It’s a hands-on way to connect with music and make memories together.

Food and drink options add even more to the experience. Choose from 40 craft beers poured by local and regional breweries, ranging from crisp lagers to bold IPAs. Pair your pick with delicious eats from 12 food vendors serving up BBQ, tacos, burgers, and sweet treats like pies and funnel cakes. Plus, over 20 artisans will be on hand with unique crafts, perfect for browsing or picking up a keepsake while you soak in the Downtown vibe.

For 42 years, this festival has been a cornerstone of San Jose’s community spirit. It’s more than just a good time; it’s a tradition that celebrates our city’s love for music, food, and togetherness. Held in the lively setting of Downtown San Jose, it’s a chance to see why this area shines as a hub of culture and creativity.

Don’t miss out on June 14 and 15 at Plaza de César Chavez. Grab your tickets now at fountainblues.com and join us for a weekend that captures the best of San Jose.

The history of History San Jose

SJ Today has a great overview of how History San Jose came about, a wonderful museum of museums next to Kelley Park and the Japanese Friendship Garden. In addition to hosting many relics from San Jose's past, it is currently home to the Portuguese Historical Museum, the Museum of the Boat People and Republic of Vietnam, the Chinese American Museum, and the African American Heritage House. To read the article, head over here.

Savor the Flavors: Dine Downtown San Jose Returns in July!

Now in its 17th year, Dine Downtown invites both locals and visitors to explore over 40 restaurants offering special menus, exclusive food and drink pairings, and chef-created delicacies. From July 11th to July 21st, food lovers can indulge in a variety of flavors that highlight the creativity and passion of San Jose's chefs.

This year's event features a wide range of dining experiences, from upscale restaurants to casual eateries, ensuring there's something for every palate. Whether you're in the mood for a three-course prix-fixe meal or a unique food and drink pairing, Dine Downtown has it covered. The event also includes popular cafes like Nirvana Soul and Pastelaria by Adega, each offering special treats for those who prefer a lighter bite or a caffeine boost.

To plan your Dine Downtown experience, visit dinedowntownsj.com, where you'll find a complete list of participating restaurants. Their special menus should also appear within a few weeks. The website is a valuable resource for organizing your culinary adventure, whether you're dining alone, with friends, or with family.

Magical Creatures Take Over Downtown San Jose

Get ready for something extraordinary at the 35th San Jose Jazz Summer Fest this August. Alongside the soulful sounds of jazz, blues, and global rhythms, Downtown San Jose will host eight massive Alebrijes sculptures. These fantastical, 20- to 22-foot-tall creations will pop up across the festival grounds and stay on display in and around Plaza de Cesar Chavez Park through September 28. Illuminated by vibrant LED lights, they’ll transform the city into a glowing wonderland each night, blending art and magic in a way you won’t want to miss.

Alebrijes carry a rich story. They began in the 1930s with Mexico City artist Pedro Linares López, who dreamed of wild, hybrid creatures and brought them to life with papier-mâché. Later, artisans in Oaxaca carved them from copal wood, painting them in bold, intricate designs. Today, these sculptures stand as a vibrant piece of Mexican heritage, and San Jose gets to experience them up close. Each piece features a QR code, letting you uncover the tales and artists behind these towering works, from a lion-bull mashup to a winged cat.

This exhibition has already wowed crowds in France and Paris back in 2019, and after a pandemic delay, it’s hitting the U.S. with San Jose as a highlight. The timing aligns perfectly with the Jazz Summer Fest, adding a stunning visual layer to the music. Even after the festival ends, free community events will keep the Alebrijes alive in Downtown San Jose, inviting everyone to connect with this unique art form. It’s a chance to see something rare and beautiful in the heart of our city.