Celebrate Christmas Day with a Festive Brunch at Signia by Hilton San Jose

The holiday season brings plenty of reasons to gather in San Jose, and one standout option awaits at Signia by Hilton San Jose. The hotel's Fountain Restaurant hosts a special Christmas Day buffet on December 25, offering a relaxed way for families and friends to savor the day. This experience focuses on high-quality dishes that highlight seasonal flavors, all without the usual kitchen duties at home.

Diners can look forward to selections like prime rib enhanced with truffle, Yorkshire pudding, and brown sugar glazed ham. A dedicated seafood and sushi bar adds variety, with delicious options to suit different tastes.

No holiday gathering skips the sweets, and this one delivers with a full dessert bar. Standouts include Bûche de Noël, crème brûlée, and a chocolate fountain ready for dipping. These treats provide a satisfying close to the feast, appealing to everyone at the table. The buffet starts at 11 a.m. and costs up to $110 per person, making it a pricey but worthwhile choice for a memorable meal.

The location elevates the day further, as Signia by Hilton San Jose connects directly to key holiday spots in Downtown San Jose. After brunch, visitors can explore the lighted displays at Christmas in the Park or enjoy skating at the Circle of Palms rink. These traditions create opportunities to extend the celebration outdoors.

For reservations, visit https://www.opentable.com/r/fountain-restaurant-san-jose.

Amazon's Last-Mile Hub: Bringing 600 Jobs to South San Jose

Amazon will be building a new distribution center at the corner of South Seventh Street and East Alma Avenue. The company acquired the 17.8-acre site five years ago for $59.3 million, and now is moving forward to replace six existing industrial buildings with a modern facility. This last-mile e-commerce hub totals 106,800 square feet, including 8,700 square feet of office space and 36,600 square feet for staging and loading, designed to handle efficient package sorting and dispatch.

Operations run 24 hours a day, with deliveries scheduled between 10 a.m. and 9:30 p.m. to serve customers in San Jose and surrounding spots like Campbell, Los Gatos, Scotts Valley, and Santa Cruz. Up to 52 truck trips daily bring items to the site, where workers prepare them for final delivery via vans. This setup strengthens local logistics, making faster shipments a reality for the community.

The project creates 600 jobs, with no more than 400 employees on site at once, adding to San Jose's employment landscape. Demolition starts in July 2026, followed by site preparation and grading through early 2027, with building construction wrapping up by October 2027 and full completion in December 2027. These timelines ensure steady progress toward operational readiness.

Source: SiliconValley.com

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

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

San Jose Accelerates Growth: First Streamlined Approval for Major Housing Project

San Jose hits a new milestone with the approval of a 540-unit mixed-use development at 3896 Stevens Creek Boulevard, the first under a policy designed to expedite large infill projects. This Holland Partner Group initiative replaces existing commercial structures on nearly five acres with two eight-story buildings featuring apartments, retail space, and ample open areas. The process took just eight months, a sharp contrast to the typical 20 months for similar reviews, demonstrating the city's commitment to efficient development.

The project includes 264 units in one building and 276 in the other, offering a range of studios, one-bedrooms, and two-bedrooms. While most cater to market rates, 27 units serve households at 50 percent of the area median income, addressing diverse needs. Located near transit in a designated growth area, the development meets criteria for fast-tracking, bypassing lengthy hearings and environmental reviews to get construction underway sooner.

This approval aligns with San Jose's goal to add 62,200 homes by 2031, tackling high costs that have slowed progress. By reducing barriers, the city encourages investment that boosts vibrancy along corridors like Stevens Creek. Residents gain from new retail options and community spaces, while the effort positions San Jose as a model for sustainable rapid expansion in California.

Source: The Mercury News

San Jose Unified's Housing Vision: 288 Apartments for Dedicated Educators

San Jose Unified School District advances plans for a 288-unit apartment complex at 760 Hillsdale Avenue, designed specifically for its employees. This initiative addresses the challenge of providing stable homes for teachers and staff amid rising living expenses. The development occupies a vacant parcel next to Highway 87, creating convenient access for those working in the area's education sector.

The project targets the missing middle group of workers who earn above limits for many subsidized options yet struggle with market rents. District leaders recognize that even top earners face barriers to comfortable living in the city. By converting unused land into residential space, the effort turns underutilized property into a community asset, aligning with San Jose's push to increase housing production.

Funding comes from a $1.15 billion bond approved by voters in November 2024, with $282.5 million allocated here. The site sits adjacent to the district's Silicon Valley Education Campus and near light rail lines, promoting easy commutes and sustainable growth. This setup ensures high-quality builds comparable to private developments, fostering retention of skilled professionals.

As San Jose works toward state-required annual housing targets of over 7,700 units, projects like this help close the gap. The apartments promise to draw and keep talented individuals committed to student success, enhancing San Jose's educational landscape and overall appeal.

For more details on the project, visit https://www.sjusd.org/

Source: The Mercury News

San Jose Takes Flight: Safeland Air Taxi Pilot Program at Mineta International Airport

San Jose Mineta International Airport is launching the Safeland pilot program. This initiative partners with Bell-Dancy Industries and Signature Aviation to test autonomous air traffic management systems. Starting with drones to validate the technology, the program advances to larger electric vertical takeoff and landing vehicles (VTOL), paving the path for safe air taxi operations in the Bay Area.

The collaboration creates a real-world testing environment at the airport, focusing on infrastructure that ensures reliability for future travelers. In the Capitol of Silicon Valley, SJC is positioning itself at the forefront of reimagining transportation. This can be seen both with VTOL and other forms of autonomous transportation to and from the airport such as Waymo and Tesla Robotaxis.

This specific program aligns with the Federal Aviation Administration's efforts to accelerate advanced air mobility across the United States. By hosting these tests, San Jose contributes to broader goals like short-range air taxis and automated flights for medical transport or emergency services. Residents and visitors alike stand to benefit from smoother, more accessible skies.

Source: SVBJ

Winter Splendor at Cielo Rooftop: San Jose's Elevated Holiday Escape

Cielo has always been one of my favorite secret spots to take visitors up to when visiting Santana Row. It's hidden at the very top of Hotel Valencia and overlooks Plaza de Valencia with the Santa Cruz Mountains in the background. It's often open to enjoy the view, but is underutilized as a place to grab a drink or bite for most of the year. Fortunately, that is changing with it's very first Winter activation: Cielo Rooftop's Holiday Experience.

This reimagines Cielo as a cozy winter wonderland until January 10, 2026 featuring frosted pines, glowing fire pits, and plush seating draped in faux fur. Open Tuesday through Saturday from 5 to 9 p.m., the space creates an intimate outdoor retreat perfect for sipping drinks amid the city's soft evening lights. Closed on Sundays, Mondays, Christmas Day, New Year's Eve, and New Year's Day, and it operates weather permitting.

The experience also features an exclusive partnership with Piper-Heidsieck Champagne, highlighting bespoke cocktails, caviar pairings, and premium pours available by the glass or bottle. Menu selections include starters like butternut-coconut soup with vegetables or spicy chorizo croquettes, shared plates such as Spanish charcuterie with cheeses and cured meats, and entrees ranging from chickpea ratatouille with spinach and mozzarella to volcano lamb shank with spicy carrot puree with pickled red cabbage.

I was invited to sample the menu last week and thoroughly loved the experience. The warm butternut-coconut soup was perfect for a winter night and I would highly recommend having it with the optional braised beef. The spicy chorizo croquettes and volcano lamb shank are also a must. I practically licked the bone clean on the lamb.

Desserts round out the offerings with apple pie and a killer chocolate fondue with marshmallows, nuts, and fresh fruit. It's perfect for sharing on a date or with a group of friends.

I would also recommend trying the mulled wine, which is a seasonal drink that is not easy to find in the Bay Area. Seasonal cocktails include a spiced mule with pear vodka; the Santana 75 with gin, lemon, raspberries, and Piper-Heidsieck 1785; and a Hot Toddy with bourbon, honey, and lemon juice.

A $50 food and beverage minimum per person applies, which is very reasonable given the quality and uniqueness of the Cielo Rooftop's Holiday Experience. Since winter weather can be unpredictable, all seating is on a first-come, first-served basis. Amenities like space heaters, blankets, and hand warmers are available for guests. Bundling up is still recommended to get the most out of your night out, but it was a very cold night when I went and we were never uncomfortable thanks to the heaters.

I would highly recommend checking this out this holiday season. Try to get there early as they have been completely full on multiple nights. To get there, you have to head up to the Hotel Valencia lobby, then take a second set of elevators used for the hotel rooms up to the 7th floor. For more details, please visit https://www.hotelvalencia-santanarow.com/holidays-on-cielo-rooftop.htm.

DOCA Festival: A Glowing Holiday Wonderland in Downtown San Jose

Discovery Meadow has transformed into a radiant holiday spectacle with the DOCA Festival, spanning over five acres of illuminated displays. Open daily through January 4, 2026, from 4:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m., the event invites families and friends to wander through six distinct zones. Each area offers unique themes, from the snowy sparkle of White Christmas Wonderland with reindeer and twinkling lights to the vibrant Enchanted Jungle featuring giant caterpillars, dinosaurs, and the legendary Quetzalcoatl.

Visitors encounter more than 40 photo opportunities, including majestic 60-foot Christmas trees and surreal lightscapes inspired by deserts, gardens, and candy realms. The Golden Christmas zone glows with candlelit tunnels, while Cactus Mirage brings colorful creatures and Mexican motifs to life under the lights. Celestial Garden blooms with luminous flowers and zodiac trees, and Candy Wonderland delights with donut tunnels and ice cream-themed trees. These elements create immersive paths perfect for creating lasting memories in the heart of Silicon Valley.

Special evenings add extra charm, such as Christmas cosplay on December 25 and a New Year's Eve celebration on December 31. The venue accommodates all with wheelchair and stroller access, plus nearby parking and public transit options include VTA Light Rail or buses. This festival highlights Downtown San Jose's growing reputation as a seasonal destination, blending creativity and community spirit.

For tickets and more information, visit https://docafestival.com/

Earn Rewards While Supporting Downtown San Jose Businesses This Holiday Season

Downtown San Jose is offering a great incentive for shoppers this December with the Shop Small Downtown program from the San Jose Downtown Association. When you spend at least $150 at participating local businesses, you qualify for a $50 gift card in return. This promotion runs through December 24 and focuses on small shops, restaurants, and theaters that define the area's character. The gift card works at over 60 locations across Downtown, making it easy to keep the spending local and discover more spots.

Participating is straightforward. Collect your receipts from purchases made at eligible Downtown businesses starting from November 28. Once they total $150 or more, upload photos of them through the association's website for verification. If your entry is among the first 100 valid ones, the $50 gift card arrives soon after. Limited to one entry per person.

All valid entries, even beyond the first 100, go into a drawing for a grand prize. Two winners will each receive a $500 San Jose Downtown gift card at the promotion's end. By joining in, shoppers directly bolster the local economy and help sustain the unique businesses that make Downtown San Jose vibrant.

For details and to submit receipts, visit https://sjdowntown.com/shopdtsj I already got my $50 gift card (thanks to a great meal at Petiscos), now it's time to get yours!