Santa Clara plans community events including concerts, restaurant week and Halloween party

The Economic Development and Marketing Committee Ad Hoc meeting held on June 23, 2025, in Santa Clara focused on generating ideas for community engagement and events aimed at enhancing local culture and economy. The meeting featured discussions on various proposals to invigorate District 4 and other areas within the city.

One of the primary topics was the idea of hosting a "Sports Family Day," which aims to promote public safety and community involvement. Committee members also discussed the potential for a restaurant week to highlight local dining options and attract visitors. Additionally, there was a suggestion to wrap VTA and Light Rail buses with promotional material to advertise upcoming events, although the cost and feasibility of this idea were not fully explored.

The committee considered various event ideas, including a Halloween party at the historic cemetery, which could serve as a unique attraction similar to successful events in other cities. An annual garage sale near the Valley Fair was also proposed as a means of fostering community engagement.

Further discussions included beautifying City Hall and organizing a city tour using a cable-style bus to showcase different districts and attractions. The committee emphasized the importance of community input in planning these events, with a focus on creating watch parties and small-scale concerts in local parks.

Group discussions highlighted the need for culturally specific events, such as a car show featuring local cuisine and music, to celebrate the diverse community in Santa Clara. The committee recognized the potential for collaboration with local businesses and organizations to enhance these initiatives.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored a collective effort to brainstorm and implement engaging community events that not only promote local culture but also stimulate economic development in Santa Clara. The committee plans to continue refining these ideas and exploring partnerships to bring them to fruition.