Major Events & Festivals in San Jose, United States

San Jose, United States, San Jose, Culture & Entertainment, Major Events & Festivals

Major Events & Festivals in San Jose, United States

1. Cinco de Mayo Fiesta ASJ

Annual celebration of Mexican heritage with music, food, and dance. Unique procession featuring giant mojiganga puppets.
  • Authentic Mexican Food: Taste traditional dishes like tacos al pastor and tamales
  • Live Music & Dance Performances: Enjoy Mariachi bands, Ballet Folklórico, and more
  • Community Involvement: Celebrate Mexican culture while supporting local San Jose businesses

2. San Jose Jazz Festival

Three-day summer event showcasing jazz music with world-renowned artists and emerging talent.
  • Jazz Greats & Emerging Artists: Hear performances from legends and rising stars in the jazz world
  • Outdoor Venues: Enjoy music in various outdoor settings throughout downtown San Jose
  • Workshops & Educational Sessions: Learn about jazz history and technique from industry experts

3. Dia de los Muertos Festival

Annual celebration of Mexican culture and the dead with music, food, and art. Features elaborately decorated altars and a procession.
  • Colorful Altars & Artwork: Explore intricately designed altars honoring loved ones
  • Live Music & Dance Performances: Enjoy Mariachi bands, Ballet Folklórico, and more
  • Cultural Education: Learn about the history and significance of Dia de los Muertos

4. Christmas in the Park

Holiday celebration featuring a large Christmas tree, ice skating rink, and seasonal entertainment.
  • Ice Skating Rink: Lace up your skates and glide under the stars
  • Holiday Shows & Performances: Enjoy festive entertainment, including carolers, choirs, and dancers
  • Community Gathering Spot: Bring your family and friends for a truly magical holiday experience

5. San Jose Tanabata Festival

Celebration of the Japanese Star Festival with food, dance, and traditional crafts.
  • Japanese Food & Drink: Savor authentic sushi, yakitori, and sake
  • Traditional Dances & Performances: Watch Awa Odori, Yosakoi Soran, and other traditional Japanese dances
  • Craft Activities: Create your own origami or participate in a calligraphy workshop

6. California Shakespeare Theater

Outdoor theater producing classic plays by William Shakespeare and other playwrights.
  • Classic Plays & Adaptations: Experience timeless stories like Romeo and Juliet, Macbeth, and A Midsummer Night's Dream
  • Outdoor Setting: Enjoy the beautiful California outdoors while watching a play
  • Educational Workshops: Attend workshops on acting, directing, and other theater-related topics

7. San Jose International Auto Show

Annual event showcasing the latest vehicles from automakers around the world.
  • New Vehicle Debuts: See debuts of upcoming models and concept cars
  • Exotic & Classic Cars: Admire rare and classic vehicles from around the world
  • Test Drive Opportunities: Get behind the wheel of your favorite cars for a test drive

8. San Jose Earthquakes Soccer Games

Professional soccer team playing at Avaya Stadium in downtown San Jose.
  • Live Sports Action: Experience the excitement of a live soccer game
  • Avaya Stadium Experience: Enjoy high-tech amenities and breathtaking views of downtown San Jose
  • Tailgate Parties: Join the festive atmosphere before the game with food, drinks, and fun

9. San Jose Mineta International Airport Kite Festival

Annual festival celebrating kites of all shapes and sizes in celebration of Asian heritage.
  • Variety of Kites: See beautiful, colorful, and creative kite designs
  • Asian Culture Celebration: Learn about Asian culture through music, food, and dance performances
  • Kite Making Workshops: Create your own kite to take home

10. Cinequest Film & Creativity Festival

Annual film festival showcasing independent films and hosting panels with industry professionals.
  • Indie Films & Industry Insights: Watch indie films and hear from filmmakers, actors, and other industry pros
  • Virtual Reality Showcase: Experience the latest VR technology and immerse yourself in new worlds
  • Networking Opportunities: Meet fellow film enthusiasts and connect with industry professionals

11. San Jose Flea Market

Massive flea market offering a wide variety of goods, including antiques, clothing, and food.
  • Unique Finds & Bargains: Discover one-of-a-kind items at unbeatable prices
  • Food Court: Savor delicious food from various cultures and cuisines
  • Shopping Experience: Browse thousands of vendors, each with their own unique items for sale

12. Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum

Museum dedicated to ancient Egyptian history and artifacts, including a replica of the Great Sphinx.
  • Ancient Artifacts & Exhibits: Explore over 4,000 artifacts from ancient Egypt
  • Replica of the Great Sphinx: See a life-size replica of the Great Sphinx of Giza
  • Educational Programs & Workshops: Attend workshops on ancient Egyptian history, art, and culture

13. San Jose Museum of Art

Modern and contemporary art museum featuring works by artists from around the world.
  • Contemporary Art Exhibits: View exhibitions featuring local, national, and international artists
  • Rotating Collections: Experience new art collections regularly throughout the year
  • Educational Programs: Attend workshops, lectures, and tours to deepen your understanding of contemporary art

14. San Jose Children's Discovery Museum

Interactive museum designed for children with exhibits focused on science, art, and culture.
  • Hands-on Exhibits: Encourages creativity, exploration, and learning through interactive exhibits
  • Science & Art Focus: Children can learn about science and art in a fun and engaging way
  • Special Events & Workshops: Join seasonal events, workshops, and camps for even more educational fun

15. San Jose's First Fridays

Monthly event showcasing local artists, musicians, and vendors in downtown San Jose.
  • Local Art & Music: Discover new art, music, and creative works by local talents
  • Food Trucks & Vendors: Satisfy your hunger with delicious food from various food trucks
  • Community Gathering Spot: Join the lively atmosphere and connect with other members of the community