*This is a special feature from the City of San Jose, Department of Parks, Recreation and Neighborhood Services 
For many years, St. James Park has been a diamond in the rough-- a hidden gem plagued by its struggles.

But the relentless determination of passionate advocates and City officials who recognized the park's untapped potential, ignite a vision for a makeover.

One group in particular, Friends of Levitt Pavilion San José, is a non-profit organization comprised of community stakeholders on a mission to build community through free, high-quality live music shows and performances. Residents of all ages will be able to enjoy these events in historic St. James Park.

Their mission is inspired by the Levitt Foundation, who find under-utilized, socially challenged, outdoor public spaces and turn them into vital, community activated spaces through the power of live music, art, and culture. The organization already has Levitt Pavilions in eight other cities throughout the United States.

Coupled with an annual series of free concerts featuring award-winning local and national talent, Levitt Pavilion San José will create shared community experiences that are essential to building equitable, thriving, and sustainable communities.

Community members are encouraged to grab a blanket with friends and family and enjoy a spring picnic with great tunes! Photo courtesy of Levitt San Jose Facebook page.

“[Friends of Levitt] honestly feel to transform a park like St. James Park, you must change how the community feels about it,” says Fil Maresca, board chair and founding member of Friends of LevittSJ.

Maresca notes San José PRNS activations across the City serve as great examples of what happens when you activate the community. It's become evidently clear that if you host fun community events that residents of all ages can enjoy, they will come out to support.

“When we look at model cities, we can see the impact and significant change of free live music. It serves as a catalyst to turning these parks into a safe, fun, and desired location when people come together,” Maresca adds.

If you haven’t been to a concert in the series yet, this Sunday is the perfect time! Artist, Fantastic Negrito will be performing. Photo courtesy of the Levitt San Jose Instagram page.

This revitalization project isn't just about renovating a park, it's about breathing life into the community. Community members are encouraged to join in on the fun with Levitt San José's annual Fall Concert Series!

There are only a few more dates left in the series this month, Sunday, October 22nd and Sunday, October 29th. Every show has a different non-profit partner, with Fantastic Negrito headlining the October 22nd concert, while the final show will be a special surprise.

In addition, there will be a Beer & Wine Garden, and delicious local food trucks. If you've never attended one of these concerts, this month is the perfect time to start before the series come back next year.

Thank you to Levitt San José, our #SiliconValleyStrongHeroes for partnering with our local community to bring together people of all ages and backgrounds through the power of free, live music. Your support to St. James Park complements the local neighborhood as well as the broader San José community.

Learn more about Levitt San Jose and their work at levittsanjose.org/about/.

For more information, visit levittsanjose.org/2023-spring-concert-series/.