5 can’t-miss August events in San Jose, CA

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While many in the Bay Area are heading to SF for Outside Lands this weekend, we’re looking forward to five incredible August events in San Jose that you shouldn’t sleep on. So pull out your planners, because there’s something for everyone here. 👀

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Grammy-nominee, Ledisi, is one of 100+ Summer Fest performers. | Photo courtesy of San Jose Jazz

🎷 San Jose Jazz Summer Fest | Fri., Aug. 12-Sun., Aug. 14

Headliners at this celebration of sound include Lee Fields, Durand Jones & The Indications, New Orleans Suspects with Erica Falls, Charlie Wilson, and Leela James.

  • Location: 12 Downtown stages in and around Plaza de Cesar Chavez
  • Cost to attend: 3-day passes start at $105, day passes available
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Cinephiles, this one’s for you. | Photo by Michael Dawson, courtesy of Cinequest

🎥 Cinequest | Tues., Aug. 16- Mon., Aug. 29

This international film festival returns in-person with 70+ feature, animated, and short films. This year, Jim Gaffigan + Allison Brie are set to receive the festival’s coveted Maverick Spirit Award. Wanna go behind the scenes? Volunteers are still needed.

  • Locations: California Theatre, Hammer Theatre Center, 3Below, Pruneyard Cinemas
  • Cost to attend: Festival passes start at $179, individual screenings are $14, special event prices vary
Pride 1

Come out + celebrate with San Jose’s LGBTQ+ community. | Photo courtesy of Silicon Valley Pride

🏳️‍🌈 Silicon Valley Pride | Mon., Aug. 22-Sun., Aug. 28

SF may have already celebrated, but now it’s SJ’s time to shine proudly. Expect drag bingo, a dance party, and a flag raising ceremony in the week leading up to a weekend of colorful festivals + a parade.

  • Locations vary
  • Cost to attend: Weekday events are free, $5 entry to festival
Mosaic Ohlone

Last year’s festival opened with a Hummingbird Circle led by the Confederation of Ohlone People. | Photo by Jon Santos, WeSparq

🪘 Mosaic Festival | Fri., Aug. 26-Sat., Aug. 27

Celebrate San Jose’s diversity of cultures through performances, art, food, and dance from 50+ community partners. Activities include a dance party, meditation + arts and crafts workshops. All are welcome.

  • Location: School of Arts & Culture at the Mexican Heritage Plaza
  • Cost to attend: Free
2022 SiliCon in Action

Get your geek on with “Mythbusters” host Adam Savage. | Photo via SiliCon

SiliCon with Adam Savage | Sat., Aug. 27-Sun., Aug. 28

Ready to geek out? Meet pop culture legends like George Takei, Christopher Lloyd, and Karen Gillan, and connect with makers, techies, cosplayers, and artists.

  • Location: McEnery Convention Center
  • Cost to attend: Prices vary; adult weekend passes start at $80