Get Ready to Connect at Content Magazine’s Pick-Up Party 17.2 in Downtown San Jose

San Jose is buzzing with creativity, and there’s no better way to dive into the city’s vibrant cultural scene than by attending Content Magazine’s Pick-Up Party for Issue 17.2, themed “Connect.” Mark your calendars for Friday, March 14, from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM, because this event is happening at one of our city’s most stunning venues—The Rotunda at San Jose City Hall. If you’re passionate about local stories, art, and community, this is an evening you won’t want to miss!

The Content Magazine Pick-Up Party is more than just a chance to grab your copy of the latest issue—it’s a celebration of the people and ideas that make San Jose so special. Issue 17.2, “Connect,” shines a spotlight on inspiring locals like Vân-Ánh Võ, Vinh G. Nguyen, and Linda Le (aka @VampyBitme), whose stories of creativity and connection are captured beautifully in the magazine’s pages. With writers like William Jeske, Esther Young, and Vanessa Lara, and photographers like Jason Lew, Daniel Garcia, and Slim Summers bringing these narratives to life, this issue is a love letter to the South Bay’s dynamic spirit.

The event is free to attend, but you’ll need to RSVP via Eventbrite to secure your spot. Want to snag a copy of Issue 17.2? You can pre-order it here and pick it up at the party. It’s the perfect way to support local journalism while connecting with others who call San Jose home.

San Jose City Hall’s Rotunda is an architectural gem that perfectly embodies the blend of history and innovation that defines our city. Hosting the Pick-Up Party here is a reminder of how Downtown San Jose continues to evolve into a hub for creativity and connection. Whether you’re a longtime resident or new to the area, this event offers a chance to meet the movers and shakers featured in Content Magazine and discover why San Jose is a city worth celebrating.

So, grab a friend, RSVP today, and join us on March 14 for an evening of inspiration and camaraderie. Let’s toast to the stories that unite us and the future we’re building together in San Jose. See you at The Rotunda!

San Jose Perseveres in the 2025 Silicon Valley Index

The 2025 Silicon Valley Index from Joint Venture Silicon Valley has just dropped, and it’s packed with insights. This annual report is like a love letter to our region, highlighting the strengths, challenges, and incredible potential of Silicon Valley—with San Jose right at its heart. Let’s dive into some of the standout takeaways that show why our city is a powerhouse of innovation, diversity, and opportunity.

First off, Silicon Valley’s population is holding steady after a few rollercoaster years, with a tiny but mighty 0.2% growth spurt. San Jose, as the biggest city in Santa Clara County, is a key player in this stability. We’re a magnet for talent from around the globe, with 41% of our population being foreign-born—a historic high. In tech, that number jumps to 66%, with 70% of those workers hailing from India or China.

Employment here isn’t booming like the old days, but it’s not shrinking either. The Index notes a slight dip of 0.1% (just 1,200 jobs), keeping us just above pre-pandemic levels. Compare that to San Francisco, still lagging 8% below its 2019 mark, and you’ll see San Jose’s resilience shining through. Our community infrastructure and services sector—like healthcare, retail, and education—has added a whopping 155,000 jobs since 2020, making up 51% of our workforce. Plus, startups in software and biotech are growing fast, up 9.3%. San Jose’s tech scene is still the place to be!

The innovation ecosystem? Still red-hot. Silicon Valley and San Francisco together raked in $69 billion in venture capital last year—doubling 2023’s haul. San Jose’s tech giants and startups are leading the charge, especially in artificial intelligence, where generative AI startups snagged $22 billion. We still account for over 50% of the nation’s venture capital and 37% of its angel investments. Our inventors also set a new record with 23,600 patents. That’s the kind of creativity that keeps San Jose on the global map!

Unfortunately, it’s not all smooth sailing. Housing remains a tough nut to crack, with median home prices hitting $1.92 million in 2024. Fewer than 26% of first-time buyers can afford that, and only 4,900 new units were permitted last year—the lowest in over a decade. Still, San Jose’s leaders are tackling this head-on, and the Index hints at a shift: tech firms are hiring here but also expanding elsewhere, which could ease some pressure as we figure out solutions.

On the flip side, our diversity and education stats are something to cheer about. Asians now make up 37% of the population, while 56% of adults hold a bachelor’s degree or higher—way above state and national averages. “The region is well educated and linguistically diverse: 53 percent speak a language other than English at home,” the report says, and San Jose’s vibrant multicultural fabric is a big part of that story.

Sustainability is another win. Solar power capacity hit 1,100 MW in 2024, and greenhouse gas emissions dropped by 690,000 metric tons over five years—equivalent to 206 wind turbines running for a year. San Jose’s green initiatives are paving the way for a cleaner, brighter future.

Silicon Valley—and San Jose especially—is in a state of flux. However, we’re not just resting on our laurels; we’re adapting, innovating, and growing stronger.

Source: 2025 Silicon Valley Index

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!