FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT
Carlos Velazquez, Public Information Manager, Office of Economic Development & Cultural Affairs
408-535-8168;
carlos.velazquez@sanjoseca.gov
Shop Local Guide Helps Residents, Visitors to Explore San José, Support Small and Local Businesses
SAN JOSE, Calif. (Nov. 25, 2025) – The City of San José invites residents to explore San José while shopping local on Small Business Saturday on Nov. 29, 2025, and throughout the holiday season through its online Shop Local Guide,
www.sjeconomy.com/shoplocalsj.
Developed by the City’s Office of Economic Development and Cultural Affairs, the site highlights more than 300 San José local and small businesses to shop, dine and find local art and cultural experiences in 13 business districts including The Alameda, Alum Rock, Alum Rock Village, Calle Willow, Downtown, East Village, Evergreen, Japantown, Luna Park, Little Saigon, Tully Road, Willow Glen and Winchester Row.
The campaign is part of a larger collaboration with Visit San Jose, business associations and other stakeholders to
promote the unique local shopping opportunities, restaurants and attractions that make San José the Bay Area’s ultimate holiday destination.
“The online guide is a great resource to shop local, explore the City, and have a truly authentic experience,” said City Manager Jennifer Maguire. “By attracting more people to our diverse neighborhoods, we are driving economic activity to the City while also strengthening and sustaining growth for small businesses and key business corridors in San José.”
A key date for the campaign will be Small Business Saturday on November 29. A
national study from 2024 showed that 84% of small business owners agree that Small Business Saturday is more critical than ever for their business — up from 48% in 2023. 85% of consumers say they are likely to Shop Small this holiday season, and that they shop small to make an impact locally.
“It’s easy to click ‘buy now’ when our holiday shopping lists start to feel unmanageable,” said Mayor Matt Mahan. “But when we shop local, we’re investing in something much bigger. Every purchase supports a neighbor’s dream, keeps a storefront active, and helps a family business stay part of San José’s story. Local entrepreneurs are the ones sponsoring school fundraisers, hosting neighborhood events, and bringing life to our city — and this season, they deserve our support.”
Residents and visitors can explore the San José shop local guide by visiting
www.sjeconomy.com/shoplocalsj.
About the City of San José
With almost 1 million residents, San José is one of the most diverse large cities in the United States and is Northern California’s largest city and the 12th largest city in the nation. San José’s transformation into a global innovation center has resulted in one of the largest concentrations of technology companies and expertise in the world.
About the San José Office of Economic Development and Cultural Affairs
The San José Office of Economic Development and Cultural Affairs (OEDCA) is committed to a vital, competitive San José economy that increases prosperity for people and companies. OEDCA guides the city's economic strategy, provides assistance for business success, connects employers with trained workers, and provides art and cultural resources to our community. For more information, go to www.sjeconomy.com.
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