Summer Fest, SJZ’s downtown San Jose musical takeover, is almost here. One great thing about the Fest is there’s plenty to explore, but it can be daunting at first glance. If you’d like some pointers on how to start your Fest exploration early, or if you’re interested in catching as much live music as you can over the weekend, look no further than this guide.
Stay All Weekend at Summer Fest
Planning a weekend stay in downtown San Jose is one way to ensure you’ll capture as much of Summer Fest’s musical diversity as possible. We have partnerships with numerous local hotels that are walking distance from the Sobrato Organization Main Stage, and are offering special group rates for Summer Fest attendees wishing to spend their weekend footsteps away from dozens of live performances. More info on our hotel deals page.
Late Night Live Music
If Summer Fest’s Sobrato Organization Main Stage shuts down before you’re ready to stop moving, take a short walk to one our stages presenting late night sets. At 10:30 pm Friday evening, while George Clinton and Parliament Funkadelic are finishing their headline set, The Seshen will kick off our Jazz Beyond After Dark programming at the Heritage Bank Cafe Stritch Stage. This series is featured at various stages throughout the Fest grounds, and will also include late-night appearances by Moonchild and Peanut Butter Wolf.
Summer Fest is also welcoming back its annual club crawl. Find late night live music at no less than 10 hotels, restaurants, and clubs throughout downtown San Jose on Friday and Saturday night. Most appearances run from 9pm-12am.
Music Before Summer Fest
Should you be in town before the Fest kicks off Aug 11, we recommend popping into a few downtown venues for a taste of what to expect over the weekend. The Thursday before Summer Fest, head out to Gordon Biersch Brewery for the Taylor Street Night+Market. We feature live music on the SJZ Boom Box every Thursday evening, and on Aug 10, we welcome Joomanji, who will be in town to play Summer Fest. This weekly event features food trucks, craft vendors, and beer and cider from Gordon Biersch.
If you get a craving for po’ boys and beignets before you can visit the Blues/Big Easy Stage, stop by Fest partner Poor House Bistro. Not only do they serve delightful New Orleans cuisine, but they offer live music seven days a week.
With these tips in mind, you’ll enjoy an unforgettable Summer Fest experience tailor-made for your tastes and pace!
Summer Fest passes are still available at pre-sale prices. Buy your passes today before prices go up August 1.