Experience A Very San José Holiday: Shop, Dine, and Celebrate in the Bay Area
San José Celebrates the Holiday Season
San José, California, invites locals and visitors to enjoy the holiday season with celebrations focused on shopping, dining, and entertainment. The new campaign, “A Very San José Holiday,” launched by Visit San José, unites city officials, local businesses, and stakeholders. This initiative promotes a collaborative holiday experience that makes San José a top destination.
Support Local Businesses
Mayor Matt Mahan urges the community to support small businesses. He states, “Show your San José pride this holiday season.” The campaign highlights local shopping options at sjeconomy.com/shoplocalsj, guiding individuals to unique shops and dining spots throughout the city.
Festivities at San José Mineta International Airport
Mookie Patel, Director of Aviation at San José Mineta International Airport, looks forward to welcoming holiday travelers. The airport’s convenient location allows visitors to easily reach downtown San José, where celebrations will take place from November through January 2025.
Creating New Memories
John LaFortune, President and CEO of Visit San José, invites everyone to enjoy classic holiday experiences. Visitors can enjoy performances at local theaters, the Christmas in the Park event, and ice skating under the stars.
Variety of Events
“A Very San José Holiday” features numerous activities, including light displays, family-friendly shows, artisan markets, and dining opportunities.
Family-Friendly Holiday Attractions
Downtown Winter Wonderland will run from November 29 to January 1, 2025. It includes rides, a Ferris wheel, and a Winter Gift Market. Christmas in the Park, from November 21 to January 1, 2025, boasts animated displays and a Community Giving Tree. Downtown Ice, open from November 15 to January 1, offers a picturesque skating experience.
Seasonal Performances and Shows
The celebration features performances such as “A Christmas Carol: CMT’s Rising Stars” at Montgomery Theater (November 15 – 24) and Mannheim Steamroller Christmas (November 26) at the Center for the Performing Arts. The San José Nutcracker, set in 1905 San José, will run from December 14 to 23 at California Theatre.
Shopping and Artisan Markets
Visitors can explore shopping at Santana Row and various shopping districts. Local artisans will showcase their crafts at events like the SJMADE Winter Wonder Market on December 14 and 15.
Dining and Culinary Experiences
Downtown San José offers dining options such as Mezcal, Angkor Chef, Elyse, Rollati Ristorante, and Original Joe’s. The 10th Street Distillery is known for its award-winning whiskey. This holiday season, they will feature a special Holiday Edition Port Cask Finish.
Hotel Options
San José offers various hotels for a holiday stay, including AC Hotel San José Downtown and Hilton San José. Visitors can explore itineraries for family-friendly and romantic holiday weekends.
For more details, visit sanjose.org/holiday or see the fact sheet for specific event information.