While there is no handbook to living in San Jose, these unwritten rules may come in handy. | Photo by @truthbyangel
Whether you’re a 408 native or a relative newcomer, there are just some things every San Josean understands to be true.
We asked our readers to share SJ’s unwritten rules, from common city knowledge to relatable trends and local lingo. You won’t find these rules in a handbook, but they are undoubtedly absorbed by the community — and if you’re not from the great 408, these might be a little difficult to explain.
The unspoken rule everyone knows
“You can live here, but don’t ever visit the Winchester Mystery House.” — @v4ce (Learn more about the house’s history + other iconic 408 landmarks.)
“San Jose is the Bay.” — @brwnguy408
“Don’t lean forward at the Shark Tank when you are sitting in the upper bowl.” — @catjeu
We’re kind to our neighbors
“Expect one of your new friends to be vegan.” — @lisapizzabayarea (And join them for dinner at a vegan spot around town.)
“Don’t tag on murals.” — @xna5hx
We’ve learned a thing or two from commuting
“You must forget everything you know about driving when there is the slightest bit of precipitation on the road” — @peters.bakery (ICYMI, winter 2024 is bringing slightly more than average rainfall.)
“Signaling when switching lanes is optional.” — @borednstarving
Sometimes you just have to laugh
“It’s SanaZay, not San Hose.” — @higginsismyboy
“Don’t trip over an earthquake unless it’s at least a 6.0. Anything less is a gentle massage.” — @peters.bakery
We know a thing or two about food
“If you want a torta, you either go to Mexico Bakery or you don’t get a torta.” — @polkkaaa
“Peter’s Bakery is where you get the best cakes, pies, and donuts.” — @authormdneu (We’ll never tire of the strawberry rings from Peter’s Bakery.)
What did we miss? If you know an unofficial rule that’s not on the list, let us know.
Karaoke Night | Tuesday, Feb. 20 | 8 p.m. | Renegades Bar, 501 W. Taylor St., San Jose | Free | Enjoy local talent or step up to the mic yourself at this weekly event.
Wednesday, Feb. 21
“Star Wars” Trivia Night | Wednesday, Feb. 21 | 7:30-9 p.m. | Wheelhouse of Willow Glen, 1173 Lincoln Ave., San Jose | $5-$20 | Grab your lightsabers and dress up in your favorite “Star Wars” garb — this trivia night will include a costume contest and themed prizes.
Rooster’s Comedy Showcase | Wednesday, Feb. 21 | 8 p.m. | Rooster T. Feathers Comedy Club, 157 W. El Camino Real, Sunnyvale | $10 | See the best and brightest new + up and coming comics in the Bay Area as they cut their teeth and sharpen their skills.
Thursday, Feb. 22
Morat | Thursday, Feb. 22 | 8 p.m. | San Jose Civic, 135 W. San Carlos St., San Jose | $51+ | See this Colombian band perform Latin pop rock hits.
Friday, Feb. 23
“Seussical” | Friday, Feb. 23-Sunday, Feb. 25 | Times vary | Montgomery Theatre, 271 S. Market St., San Jose | $20-$25 | The CMT Rising Stars take you through the fantastical world of Dr. Suess as you follow your favorite characters — including Horton the Elephant + The Cat in the Hat.
Say bye-bye to dry skin with our list of skincare products. | Photo provided by Six & Main
Is dry skin making you feel frustrated during these winter months? Don’t worry, our online shop (Six & Main) features hydrating skincare products essential for weathering cold temperatures.
Step into a world of self-care as you explore a curated selection of winter skincare essentials, leaving your skin refreshed and revitalized.
Clean your face with the Purifying Face Wash by Roosevelt Supply Co. With added organic fruit extracts and activated charcoal, you’re sure to clean off the toughest dirt and grime without being harsh on your skin.
Exfoliate your skin using the Las Flores | Mini Hydrate + Brighten Duo, which is a powerful formula by Esteli that gently exfoliates and nourishes, leaving your skin looking and feeling refreshed.
The Rise, a 50-acre mixed-use development on the former Vallco Town Center property, was approved by Cupertino city officials after years of delays. It is slated to be the city’s largest single housing project in history + will include 2,669 housing units and 230,000 sqft of retail space. (San José Spotlight)
Arts
New Ballet received $10,000 from the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA). The funding will directly support New Ballet’s First Step Program, which provides free dance education to first through third grade students at SJUSD’s Title 1 schools. (The Mercury News)
Announced
Can you make a hole in one?Urban Putt San Jose is ready to celebrate its grand opening on Thursday, Feb. 29, after having to reschedule twice. The celebration will begin at 4 p.m.
Fun Fact
San Jose-based restaurant Nick The Greek is celebrating its 10-year anniversary. The popular Greek chain has since expanded to 65+ locations across the US after opening its first shop downtown. One things for sure — we’re celebrating with some Greek fries, falafel, and baklava.
The Buy
We know, San Jose Day is still a couple of months away. But it’s not too early to pre-order your San Jose Day sweatshirt so that it’s ready to wear for the occasion. Orders are open until Friday, March 1.
Try This
It’s just our luck that Jiaren Cafe’s cookie decorating class theme for March is St. Patrick’s Day. The family-friendly class will take place on Saturday, March 2, at 11 a.m. All materials will be provided + no prior experience is necessary. Sign up to attend.
Travel
A friendly reminderto book spring + summer vacations (they’re just around the corner). Want beach time? This Hawaiian oceanfront property has two king beds. Prefer the mountains? Book this lakeside chalet in British Columbia. Craving luxury? This tropical cabana in Montecito, CA has an on-site masseuse.*
The Buy
The Buy 2.20.24 (Affiliate + Six & Main)
Top-rated microfiber pillowcases, because you deserve new, soft pillowcases to sleep on at night. We like how these are wrinkle free (no ironing needed) and are super soft to the touch.
In addition to the Greek fries, falafel, and baklava, you absolutely must get an order of the loukoumades from Nick The Greek. If you haven’t tried the Greek-style fried dough with honey and crushed nuts, you are missing out.
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