Santana Row Black Friday Shopping Deals

Below is a handy list of the Black Friday deals at Santana Row, which is completely decked out for the holidays already. You can also get free photos with the Nutcracker & Mouse King in front of the Christmas tree from 1pm to 4pm.

• TUMI – Receive 15% off items during Black Friday week.
• Travismathew – Shop TravisMathew’s biggest sale of the year! Get 30% off storewide starting 11/26. Receive 50% off select styles starting 11/24. *Some exclusions apply
• Bluemercury – Receive 20% off of purchases of $799.99, 25% off purchases of $800 or more, 30% off of purchases $1500 or more. Shop the Holiday Gift Guide here.
• Suspiro – Receive 10% bonus on gift cards through 12/31. E.g., buy a $100 gift card, get another complimentary gift card for $10.  Spend $250, get $25, etc.
• El Jardin – Receive 10% bonus on gift cards through 12/31. E.g., buy a $100 gift card, get another complimentary gift card for $10.  Spend $250, get $25, etc.
• Taqueria Parranga – Receive 10% bonus on gift cards through 12/31. E.g., buy a $100 gift card, get another complimentary gift card for $10.  Spend $250, get $25, etc.
• Zazil Cocina Mexicana – Receive 10% bonus on gift cards through 12/31. E.g., buy a $100 gift card, get another complimentary gift card for $10.  Spend $250, get $25, etc.
• KOHLER Signature Store – Refresh your space for the holidays with limited-time savings. 5% off purchases of $800 or more. 10% off purchases of $1,600 or more (offer available November 10-30).
• BoConcept – 15% off all items during the month of November.
• Hot 8 Yoga – 15% off a 10 Class Pack (gift cards are not included). Click HERE to purchase.
• EVEREVE – 10% off storewide Black Friday 11/28 – Monday 12/1. Gift cards are not included.
• The Container Store – November 21–26 – 30% Off Storewide/Sitewide, including Elfa. November 28–30 – 30% Off Storewide/Sitewide.
• Casper – 11/24 to 12/02: 35% off Dream Mattress and Snow Mattress. Black Friday, 11/28:  25% off furniture.
• Nike – Visit Nike Santana Row to save 25% off select styles when you shop 11.13-11.27.
• Veggie Grill – Get more out of Black Friday at any Veggie Grill by Next Level! On Friday, November 28, 2025, receive a $20 bonus gift card for every $100 in gift cards purchased.
• MaiDo Stationery – $5 coupon with every $25 regular-price purchase. Sanrio winter items are 50% off. Hobonichi Covers are 75% off. Hands Craft Hello Kitty Flower Series 3D wooden puzzles are Buy 1 Get 1 Free.
• MaiDo Pop Up Shop – Purchase $25 or more and receive a $5 coupon for main MaiDo Stationery store.
• Straits – Unwind with signature cocktails, small plates, and the best vibes in town! Happy Hour from 3pm-6pm on 11/28. Black Friday Gift Card Special: Give the gift of flavor or treat yourself! Give more, get more ! Buy $100 , get $120. Buy $200, get $250. Buy $500 , get $650 (Offer available through December 31, 2025) Redeemable for dining, drinks, and celebrations at Straits. Perfect for holiday gifting, birthdays, or your next night out.
• PAIGE – 30% off storewide of regular priced items. Exclusions may apply.
• Kendra Scott – On Black Friday, 11/28, enjoy 40% off Fashion Jewelry and Color Bar and 25% off Everything else with a limited edition $25 Elisa necklace Doorbuster while supplies last.
• Vuori – Black Friday Weekend Only! Get a premium cotton canvas pouch with any purchase of $150 or more. Spend $250, and we’ll throw in a matching tote, too (Offer available from November 28 – December 1st) – while supplies last. Only 1 pouch per transaction.
• [solidcore] – 6 month Committed Membership (15% off standard pricing).
• Monthly 4 membership receive + 1 bonus class: $119.
• Monthly 8 membership receive + 2 bonus classes: $212
• 12 month Committed+ Membership (25% off standard pricing)
• Monthly 4 membership receive + 1 bonus class: $105
• Monthly 8 membership receive + 2 bonus classes: $187
• New Balance – The Black Friday / Cyber monday sale is live from 11/25 – 12/3. Same offer of up to 40% off select styles.
• Madewell – Enjoy 40% off your purchase from 11/20-11/26.
• VINCE -Enjoy 25% Off Almost Everything & 30% Off Sweaters. Valid 11/21/2025 – 12/01/2025

Happy Thanksgiving 2025!

Hope you all have a wonderful Thanksgiving! Warm wishes to you and your family from your friends at The San Jose Blog! 🦃

Expanding Affordable Housing in San Jose's Guadalupe-Washington Neighborhood

San Jose continues to build toward a more inclusive future with the Lupina development, a six-story structure at 797 South Almaden Avenue (near Downtown San Jose) that will deliver 99 affordable housing units. Resources for Community Development, based in Berkeley, leads the effort with $98.6 million in secured financing, including a $53.3 million construction loan from JPMorgan Chase and $28.9 million from Santa Clara County. This funding paves the way for a mix of 26 studios, 28 one-bedroom units, 25 two-bedroom units, and 20 three-bedroom units, all targeted at households earning 30% to 60% of the area median income.

Community needs take center stage in Lupina's design. The ground floor dedicates 2,300 square feet to commercial space, featuring a childcare center pinpointed during early outreach with neighbors. The project also includes 25 permanent supportive housing units, 41 extremely low-income units, and 32 low-income units. Residents will benefit from 1,892 square feet of support services, a community room, on-site property management, and a lobby. Outdoor spaces total over 6,000 square feet, with ground-level play areas, benches, landscaping, and a vegetated second-floor courtyard.

Sustainability and accessibility define the building's features. As an all-electric structure with rooftop solar panels, it aims to reduce operational energy use by 50%. Parking accommodates 92 vehicles with EV charging capabilities and 127 bicycles, with access from W. Virginia Street. The ground level is elevated to mitigate flooding, and the project earned a Finding of No Significant Impact under the National Environmental Policy Act, clearing the path for federal funding without a full environmental impact statement.

Leddy Maytum Stacy Architects crafted the design to blend with the neighborhood's residential character while addressing local priorities. Construction, handled by Nibbi Brothers General Contractors, starts November 17, with occupancy slated for 2028. Demolition of existing fire-damaged structures awaits final federal approvals to protect funding streams.

Lupina represents a key piece of San Jose's housing strategy, adding transit-oriented options near VTA light rail in an underserved area. With family-sized units, on-site services managed by Resources for Community Development and John Stewart Company, this development supports San Jose's growth as a welcoming place for all.

Source: SVBJ

Willow Glen Holiday Bubbly Walk Returns This December

San Jose's Willow Glen neighborhood prepares for its annual Holiday Bubbly Walk on December 6, 2025, from 2pm to 5pm. Participants stroll along Lincoln Avenue, visiting over two dozen businesses for sparkling wine tastings. Check-in runs from 12pm to 3pm at the Bank of America parking lot at 1245 Lincoln Avenue, where attendees receive a souvenir glass, wristband, and map to guide the experience.

The event invites guests to explore Downtown Willow Glen's shops and services while sampling bubbly varieties. Businesses like Copita Tequileria y Comida, Sushi Confidential, 20twenty Wine Bar, and Mariette Chocolates host tastings, blending holiday shopping with sips of cheer. Dress in festive attire to enhance the atmosphere as you move from spot to spot, discovering local gems along the way.

Tickets include all tastings and materials, with early bird pricing at $60 plus fees available through November 30, rising to $65 plus fees afterward. Designated drivers join for free without a ticket. The walk proceeds rain or shine, and organizers encourage eating beforehand at nearby restaurants since most sites offer limited snacks.

Families can bring strollers, though many venues suit smaller groups best. Portable restrooms stand ready in the check-in lot, and free parking fills the area, with rideshare options recommended for convenience.

For tickets and more details, visit https://www.willowglen.org/willow-glen-bubbly-walk

Knight Foundation Fuels East San Jose Revitalization with $6.9 Million Grant

East San Jose is getting a major philanthropic boost through a $6.9 million investment from the Knight Foundation into the La Placita cultural district. This funding supports The School of Arts and Culture at Mexican Heritage Plaza in transforming a 28,000-square-foot strip mall along Alum Rock Avenue into a dynamic community hub. Long in the planning, the project honors the vision of late cultural leader Chris Esparza and aims to highlight the unique character of the area.

La Placita will feature a black box theater, a cafe, expanded health care services, and nutrition programs, blending arts with practical community needs. The initiative extends beyond buildings to invest in people, growing the School of Arts and Culture while fostering cultural vibrancy. As the foundation's largest West Coast commitment, it aligns with local efforts to promote economic mobility and resilience in the neighborhood.

This grant complements other Knight Foundation support in San Jose, such as a $2 million donation to Plug and Play for the San Jose AI Center of Excellence. Together, these efforts advance innovation and position the city as a leader in artificial intelligence. East San Jose emerges as a complementary force to Downtown, with intentional development strengthening the overall urban landscape.

Source: San Jose Inside

Symphony San Jose Delivers Holiday Magic at California Theatre

Downtown San Jose invites families and friends to embrace the season with Symphony San Jose's Holiday Spectacular on December 6 and 7, 2025. Performances take place at the beautifully decorated California Theatre on 345 South First Street, with shows at 2:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. on Saturday, plus 2:30 p.m. on Sunday. This symphonic celebration fills the air with warmth through classic carols, audience sing-alongs and dazzling dance numbers, creating lasting memories for all ages.

The program features beloved selections like Leroy Anderson's A Christmas Festival, Jerry Herman's We Need a Little Christmas, Vince Guaraldi's Christmas Time is Here and traditional favorites including The First Noël, Joy to the World and Silent Night. Attendees can look forward to the popular 12 Days of Silicon Valley, along with pieces such as Katharine Kennicott Davis's The Little Drummer Boy, Alan Silvestri's Believe from The Polar Express and Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky's Arabian Dance from The Nutcracker. Additional tunes like It's the Most Wonderful Time of the Year and Santa Baby round out the festive lineup.

Conductor Elena Sharkova leads Symphony San Jose, joined by Symphony San Jose Chorale, Cantabíle Youth Singers, New Ballet and special guests for an evening of holiday wonder. Pre-concert festivities start one hour before each show, offering photos and visits with Santa, plus a chance to decorate gingerbread cookies with royal icing for a sweet touch. These activities open the doors to joyful interactions before the music begins.

Convenient parking awaits at a nearby city-owned garage on San Carlos Street with entrances on Second and Third streets. Single tickets range from $35 to $115, with special discounts for youth including half-price options for those 17 and under when accompanying adults, or the Saturday Night SoundCheck Pass for patrons 25 and under at $25 for the season, plus companion tickets.

For tickets and additional information, visit www.symphonysanjose.org

New Retail Sparks in Downtown San Jose at 188 West St. James

There are some promising developments at the housing towers on 188 West St. James Street. These buildings have long featured empty ground-floor commercial spaces totaling around 32,000 square feet, but now brokers are actively seeking tenants to bring them to life. The location stands out for its proximity to San Pedro Square, a hub that draws steady foot traffic from locals and visitors alike. This setup positions the spaces perfectly to serve both residents above and the surrounding community.

Among the ideas gaining traction is a small grocery store modeled after a bodega, the kind of independently owned spot that offers everyday essentials with a personal touch. Such a store could fill much of the 20,000 square feet directly under the housing units, providing quick access to fresh goods without leaving the neighborhood. Other possibilities include a cheese, wine, and delicatessen establishment, which would cater to those seeking specialty items for gatherings or daily treats. The market potential here feels substantial, especially as Downtown grows with more people calling it home.

A two-story building next door along North San Pedro Street opens up even more options, like a restaurant to complement the nearby dining scene or a beauty salon and nail shop for self-care services. While challenges exist, such as the need for significant improvements to make the spaces ready, the overall vibe points toward positive change. These additions could enhance the walkable, community-focused feel that makes Downtown San Jose special, drawing more activity and fostering connections among neighbors.

Source: The Mercury News

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/

Massive STEM Park Set to Transform North San Jose

San Jose is moving forward with plans to develop 159 acres of undeveloped land into a cutting-edge campus focused on data centers and advanced manufacturing. The city selected Prologis, a global leader in logistics real estate, to negotiate the project after reviewing proposals from several firms. This initiative turns empty fields near the regional wastewater facility into a hub for innovation, with four large data centers and additional buildings dedicated to high-tech production.

The Sustainable Technology, Engineering and Manufacturing Park aligns with San Jose's growing energy infrastructure, including new transmission lines that boost grid capacity to support artificial intelligence and other future industries. Prologis brings extensive local experience, owning millions of square feet in the South Bay, and aims for construction to start around 2028, with operations by 2030. This development promises high-paying jobs and strengthens our city's role in Silicon Valley's tech ecosystem.

Beyond economic growth, the project could add nearly $30 million yearly to the general fund through taxes and rent, helping stabilize finances without burdening residents. By utilizing excess power capacity, it spreads costs and potentially lowers utility bills for everyone.

Source: The Mercury News

Holiday Trolley Rides Return to Willow Glen

Willow Glen welcomes back its cherished holiday trolley rides this December, offering a delightful way to experience the neighborhood's festive charm. From December 7 through December 18, the Willow Glen Business Association hosts these evening journeys along tree-lined streets adorned with lights. Riders glide past sidewalk cafes, boutiques, and cozy shops that give the area its small-town appeal within San Jose.

Each ride lasts 30 minutes and departs from the Bank of America lot at 1245 Lincoln Avenue, with departures at 5:15pm, 6pm, 6:45pm, 7:30pm, 8:15pm, and 9pm. The open-air trolley seats up to 32 passengers, providing views of the holiday decorations. Arrive early for check-in to secure a spot on this popular attraction.

Tickets are on sale now, with adults at $40 plus fees and children aged 2 to 12 at $20 plus fees. Kids under 2 ride free on a lap. Dress warmly and bring a blanket, as the trolley exposes riders to the elements. No food or dogs allowed, though drinks with secure lids work fine. Rides proceed in rain, possibly switching to a luxury bus with advance notice.

Private trolley reservations are open for select nights, ideal for groups celebrating the season. Contact the association at info@willowglen.org for details and pricing.

For more information or to purchase tickets, visit https://www.willowglen.org/trolley-rides