Get Ready to Run Green: The 2025 San Jose Shamrock Run is Coming!

Hey, San Jose fam! It’s time to dust off those running shoes, grab your favorite green gear, and get ready for one of the most festive events of the year—the 2025 San Jose Shamrock Run! Mark your calendars for Saturday, March 15, because this isn’t just a race; it’s a full-on St. Patrick’s Day party that’s taking over downtown San Jose, and you won’t want to miss it.

Picture this: thousands of runners decked out in shamrocks and leprechaun hats, pounding the pavement through the heart of our city. Whether you’re a seasoned 10K champ, a casual 5K stroller, or bringing the little ones for the Kid’s Leprechaun Chase, there’s something for everyone. The race kicks off at San Pedro Square Market, a spot that’s already buzzing with energy, and winds through our vibrant streets before finishing with a post-race bash that’s pure San Jose magic.

What makes this event extra special? It’s not just about the run—it’s about community. Every step you take supports the San José–Dublin Sister City Scholarship Program, helping local students connect with their peers across the globe. Plus, you’ll score some awesome swag: a commemorative shirt and medal to show off your Shamrock pride, and if you’re 21+, a free beer with your race bib to toast your victory. How’s that for a win-win?

The post-race party at O’Flaherty’s Irish Pub is where the real fun happens. Think live music filling the air, Irish dancers bringing the spirit of St. Paddy’s to life, and a crowd of happy, sweaty San Joseans celebrating together. It’s the kind of scene that reminds you why this city is so incredible—we know how to work hard, play hard, and come together like nowhere else.

San Jose shines during events like this. The Shamrock Run isn’t just a race; it’s a chance to see our Downtown streets alive with laughter, energy, and that unmistakable Silicon Valley spirit. Whether you’re chasing a personal record or just here for the good vibes, you’ll feel the pride of being part of something bigger—a city that’s always moving forward, one green-clad step at a time.

So, lace up, sign up, and let’s make the 2025 San Jose Shamrock Run the best yet! Head over to sanjoseshamrockrun.com for all the details and to snag your spot.

San Jose live music venues

SJ Today has a handy guide for San Jose music venues of all shapes and sizes. The only one I'd add to the list is the new Pete Be Center that has taken over the Uproar Brewery space in SoFA. That opens up in April and will be a great venue for around 1,000 people events. Check out SJ Today's guide in the link below.

Source: SJ Today

Splash into Spring at Holi Fest 2025 in San Jose

San Jose is gearing up for one of the most vibrant and joyous events of the year—Holi Fest 2025! Mark your calendars for Saturday, March 15th, because this is your chance to dive into a celebration bursting with color, music, and community spirit right in the heart of our city. Hosted by the Association of Indo Americans (AIA), the festival will take place from 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM at Discovery Meadow, transforming downtown San Jose into a kaleidoscope of fun and festivity.

If you’ve never experienced Holi, prepare to be amazed. Known as the Festival of Colors, Holi is a Hindu tradition that celebrates the arrival of spring, the triumph of good over evil, and the power of unity and love. Picture this: thousands of people—friends, families, and newcomers alike—laughing and dancing as clouds of vibrant colored powders fill the air. It’s a sensory explosion that’s as beautiful to witness as it is fun to join in. And in San Jose, we’re taking it to the next level with what’s billed as the largest Festival of Colors in downtown!

What can you expect at Holi Fest 2025? For starters, the beats of Bollywood dance music will keep your feet moving all day long. Live performances will light up the stage, showcasing the energy and talent that make our city’s cultural scene so special. There’ll be an electric dance floor where you can let loose, plus plenty of food stalls serving up delicious eats to keep you fueled for the festivities. Whether you’re tossing handfuls of gulal (colored powder) or savoring a tasty treat, every moment promises to be unforgettable.

Discovery Meadow, located at 180 Woz Way, is the perfect spot for this celebration. It’s a beautiful, open space that’s easily accessible and right in the thick of downtown San Jose. Bring your crew, wear clothes you don’t mind getting colorful, and get ready to make memories.

San Jose shines brightest when we come together to celebrate our diversity, and Holi Fest is a perfect example of that spirit in action. Whether you’re a Holi veteran or a first-timer, this event welcomes everyone with open arms—and plenty of color! Tickets are available now through Eventbrite, so grab yours and get ready to be part of something truly special. Let’s make March 15th a day to remember as we paint the town—literally—in every shade of joy.

Opportunity Now lists favorite San Jose reading spots

Hey, San Jose bookworms—get ready to fall in love with our city all over again! Opportunity Now has put together a fantastic guide to the coziest, most inspiring reading spots around town, and it’s a must-see for anyone who cherishes a good book. From the peaceful vibes of our local parks to the charm of hidden gardens and the adventure of little-known trails, there’s a perfect spot waiting for you to crack open that novel or dive into a new nonfiction fave. 

These places aren’t just about reading—they’re about soaking in the beauty and spirit of San Jose while you’re at it. Want to explore them for yourself? Head over to https://www.opportunitynowsv.org/blog/-from-parks-to-gardens-to-little-known-trails-all-your-favorite-san-jose-reading-spots for the full list. Let’s keep celebrating the magic of San Jose—one page and one amazing spot at a time.

South FIRST FRIDAYS Art Walk March 2025

South FIRST FRIDAYS is back this week with exhibits across multiple galleries in three different districts. Everything is open from at least 5-9pm. Participating venues include ANNO DOMINI, the Institute of Contemporary Art, KALEID Gallery, Works San Jose, the San Jose Museum of Quilts & Textiles, the SoFA Market, MACLA, Art Ark Gallery, MACHU PICCHU, San Jose Jazz, and Chopsticks Alley Gallery.

It's a special month as March is the 19th anniversary of the First Friday Artwalk! Enjoy Ukranian-born Natasha Kramskaya's solo exhibit at The Pierce or live Jazz music at SJZ Break Room. Citadel Studios will have an opening reception to their art show "Sweet Lost" (FUSE Presents on the map below). 

It all goes down on Friday, March 7th. As usual admission is free and all ages are welcome. Click here for a preview of featured art! Below is a map with all of the galleries to check out across three different districts.

Shine Together & Dueñas Car Club Bring Women’s Day Vibes to East San Jose

San Jose knows how to celebrate, and this International Women’s Day, we’re doing it big! On March 8, 2025, Shine Together and Dueñas Car Club are teaming up for a community bash at James Lick High School (57 N. White Rd.) from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM. It’s all about empowering women, supporting young moms, and bringing that Eastside energy—plus, it’s free to join in!

Shine Together, the local powerhouse helping young mothers with education, life skills, and career goals, is behind this feel-good event. They’ve partnered with Dueñas Car Club—an all-women crew of lowrider legends who roll deep with community spirit. Together, they’re hosting a donation drive for wipes and diapers to stock up young families with the essentials. Bring a pack if you can—it’s a small way to make a big difference.

But it’s not just about giving back (though that’s reason enough to show up). This day’s packed with fun—think live music pumping through the air, tasty food to grab, and activities for everyone, from kids to car enthusiasts checking out those sweet lowrider rides. It’s a perfect mix of celebration and purpose, right here in our own backyard.

Shine Together’s mission to lift up young moms shines bright at this event, and Dueñas Car Club’s all-in attitude makes it even better. “We’re so excited to team up with Dueñas Car Club,” says Sara Reyes, Shine Together’s Executive Director. “Their passion for women’s leadership and community good vibes fits us like a glove. This is about coming together to support young mothers and their families—showing them they’ve got a whole city rooting for them.”

It’s happening at James Lick High School, a stone’s throw from the heart of East San Jose. Admission’s free, so there’s no excuse to miss out. Can’t make it? You can still help—check out www.ShineTogether.org for more ways to pitch in. Every little bit helps these young moms build brighter futures.

So, SJ, let’s show up on March 8th—dance to some tunes, grab a bite, and drop off those donations. Know Dueñas Car Club? Love Shine Together’s work? Tell us in the comments what you’re most excited for. This is San Jose at its best—strong women, strong community, and a whole lot of heart!

UPDATE (3/19/2025) - Quick follow-up regarding the outcome of the event:

"Shine Together had hundreds of amazing people attend its recent San Jose event. A special thanks to Supervisor Betty Duong (@supbettyduong), Council Member Peter Ortiz (@peterortizd5), District 5, Madonna Bolano, long-time supporter and Shine Together Board Co-Chair, and all of the incredible supporters. The organization feels truly grateful for the dedication of so many to helping young moms shine. The women of Dueñas Car Club provided incredible support and commitment to the community. Thanks to everyone’s generosity, Shine Together received more than $4,000 in diaper and wipe donations, along with cash donations. With this support, Shine Together continues to make a lasting impact on the lives of young moms and their families."

AVE Santa Clara Brings Elevated Apartment Living to Silicon Valley’s New Clara District

Silicon Valley just got a major upgrade with the grand opening of AVE Santa Clara, a sleek new residential community that’s raising the bar for apartment living. Announced on February 25, 2025, this project—brought to life by the award-winning team at AVE (a Korman Communities brand) and their partners at Ensemble Investments, LLC—is now open and ready for move-ins at 2240 Calle de Luna in the emerging Clara District. Located just steps from Levi’s Stadium, this isn’t just another apartment complex—it’s a lifestyle hub designed for the modern Silicon Valley crowd.

With 311 apartments spread across eight stories, the property offers a mix of traditional unfurnished rentals and fully furnished units with flexible lease terms—perfect for tech professionals, remote workers, or anyone looking for a hassle-free move. Studios start at $2,811, one-bedrooms at $3,110, two-bedrooms at $4,881, and three-bedrooms at $6,590. Inside, you’ll find stainless steel appliances, quartz countertops, in-unit Samsung washers and dryers, and blackout shades in the bedrooms (great for young kids).

But the real star is a whopping 36,200 square feet of indoor-outdoor amenities. We’re talking a two-story fitness center, a resort-style pool with a hot tub and firepit lounges, a zen courtyard with a yoga lawn, and even a dog park and pet spa for your four-legged roommates. There’s also a game room, movie/sports lounge, private work pods, and conference rooms on every floor—because work-from-home life isn’t going anywhere. Oh, and the cherry on top: the AVEnture Hub, a first-of-its-kind perk where residents can borrow bikes, kayaks, and camping gear for free to explore the Bay Area’s outdoor treasures.

Right next door, Clara’s Junction is an 18,000-square-foot indoor-outdoor social spot that’s already shaping up to be a South Bay hotspot. It's a New American restaurant and bar with craft cocktails, Taz’s Tacos (a resident taco truck!), and The Pit, a live BBQ joint hosting guest pitmasters.

The Clara District is buzzing with potential, and AVE Santa Clara is right in the thick of it. You’re a stone’s throw from Levi’s Stadium, close to heavy hitters like Nvidia, Apple, Facebook, and Google, and just minutes from San Jose Mineta International Airport. Plus, the VTA light rail is nearby for an easy ride to Downtown San Jose. It’s the kind of spot that screams Silicon Valley convenience with a side of fun.

AVE Santa Clara is officially leasing now, so if you’re ready to level up your living situation, head to aveliving.com for more details and to apply. With its unbeatable location, next-level amenities, and a community vibe that’s all about connection, this place is poised to become a South Bay standout.