Editors’ Picks

• Gregg | SJMade Holiday Fair | This weekend, I’m headed to the holiday fair to shop from 425+ area makers, artists, and creators.
• Brianna | Downtown San Jose | I recommend taking advantage of this deal — spend $125 at downtown businesses between Nov. 24 and Dec. 24, and you’ll get a $25 gift card to a downtown business.
• You all love shopping small. Check out where else you said you’ll be shopping on Nov. 25.

California-made Favorites

• SJtoday | Okay, we had to toot our own horn a little. If you know someone who is constantly forwarding our newsletter to share an event or piece of local history, spread the SJ spirit with these gifts.
• Corridor Candle Co. | Bring a little sun with you with scented travel candles, reed diffusers, and sprays inspired by places like Coronado and Anza-Borrego.
• SEOULSTITCH | Add a personal touch to your space with tufted rugs and wall art in a variety of colorful designs from this San Diego-based shop.

Popular Gifts

• For her: simple beaded pearl ring | Drea Studio
• For friends: hygge gift box | Arinna Gifts
• For sisters: personalized “To my sister” blanket | Relatable Basic by Irene and Annie
• For holiday lovers: winter lambs ear wreath | Sprig and Vine Wreaths
• For crafters: paint your own pins kit | Jill Makes
• For anyone: stoneware coffee mug | Spinware

• Thanksgiving Brunch Buffet | Thursday, Nov. 23 | 11 a.m. + 2 p.m. | Hotel Valencia Santana Row, 355 Santana Row, San Jose | $58.22-$122.91 | Indulge in a Spanish-inspired meal with Thanksgiving staples like prime ribeye + jalapeno cheddar cornbread.

• Aries Spears | Friday, Nov. 24-Sunday, Nov. 26 | Times vary | San Jose Improv, 62 South 2nd St., San Jose | $25-$75 | This Chicago native has gained a following from being a regular on Mad TV, as well as starring in multiple feature films like “Why Do Fools Fall In Love.”

• Vintage Market (Fall + Winter Edition) | Saturday, Nov. 25 | 10 a.m.-4 p.m. | Garden at the Flea, 1590 Berryessa Rd., San Jose | $0-$10 | Shop small for the holidays at Pop-Up SJ’s fair of 50+ thrift sellers, creatives, and collectors.
• The Sounds of Grunge: Tributes to Nirvana + Smashing Pumpkins + Stone Temple Pilots | Saturday, Nov. 25 | 8 p.m. | The Ritz, 400 S. First St., San Jose | $20-$25 | Get ready for a thrashin’ night of your favorite alt-rock classics.

• Happy Thanksgiving. However you celebrate, we hope you enjoy a day of rest, reflection, and community. We here at SJtoday are thankful for our city, and the fact that there’s always plenty to talk about.

• Bay Area Congresswoman Anna Eshoo recently announced via social media that she will not seek reelection at the end of her term in 2024. Eshoo has served as a Congresswoman for over 30 years. (ABC 7)

• 1,000+ homes and a Whole Foods may be headed to the El Paseo de Saratoga retail and restaurant complex. A revised environmental impact report for the mixed-use development will be heard by the Planning Director’s Office on Wednesday, Nov. 29. (The Mercury News)

• $500,000. That’s how much The City of San Jose might be paying San José Spotlight and the First Amendment Coalition due to a public records lawsuit. The San Jose City Council will consider the payout on Tuesday, Nov. 28. (San Jose Spotlight)

• Is some form of stuffing on your plate today? According to USA Today, “stuffing recipe” is the most-searched Thanksiving side dish in California. Casseroles in general — from green bean to sweet potato — were most-searched overall. (USA Today)

• Hoping to do good this holiday season? Check out our list of 30+ local organizations you can volunteer with, from animal lover action to outdoorsy opportunities.