Experience Spooky Season
in Santa Clara!
By Ben Landis, Marketing Manager
So, you have tiny humans to entertain, friends to impress with your Halloween spirit, or perhaps you're seeking some festive fitness, or maybe you’re feeling extra daring and ready to chase some ghosts?
Well, you're in for a treat! Santa Clara is brewing up a cauldron of delights for all you spooky enthusiasts. Let's jump right in and see what tricks and treats the city has up its sleeve.
1. Children's Spooktaclara Halloween Party
Get ready to join the spooky festivities at the Children’s Spooktaclara Halloween Party! If you're looking for an event that'll keep your little ones entertained and engaged, this is the place to be. The City of Santa Clara is hosting this event on Saturday, October 28th, from 12-3 p.m. at Central Park, 909 Kiely Blvd., Santa Clara, CA 95051.
The event will be held at the Meadow Area near Bob Fatjo Field. Activities at the event include Trick or Treat Row, the Pumpkin Walk, carnival games, sponsor giveaways, crafts, music, food, and more!
Oh, and don't forget to dress up in your spookiest costumes—because let's be real, it's practically mandatory! Come check out the fun and be ready for a great afternoon of community fun.
2. Great America Tricks and Treats Event
Hold onto your broomsticks because from now until October 28, 2023, California’s Great America is bringing you their Tricks and Treats event!
Immerse yourself in two exciting lands—the Lands of Treats and the Land of Tricks! The Land of Tricks has two realms with everything slimy, sinister, and strange: Ickyville and Spooky Spires. On the flip side, the Land of Treats offers two celebratory zones: Everfall and Sweet Tooth Acres.
Whether you’re a grown-up ghoul or a little goblin, there's some spooktacular seasonal fun for all. Guests can enjoy trick-or-treating, pumpkin decorating, live entertainment, and delicious fall foods. And as if that isn't enough, all your favorite rides are open for the thrill of a lifetime. Head over to www.cagreatamerica.com to find out more about these fantastic fall festivities and grab your tickets!
3. Monster Dash and Bash 5K
If you have a sudden urge to be an athletic ghost or a sporty zombie this spooky season, you just have to participate in Mission College’s Monster Dash and Bash 5K. But don’t worry; you aren’t burning calories just for the sake of it. Your enthusiastic calorie-burning extravaganza is all in the name of a truly amazing cause!
With the rising educational costs, many students find pursuing higher education more and more difficult. This 5k provides an opportunity for the community to come together and raise funds for Mission College Students. The main highlight of the event consists of a 5K Walk/Run, a children's Trick or Trot Race, a Beer Garden, a variety of Food Trucks, a costume contest, an interactive Silent Auction, and entertaining Kids Activities. The festivities start at Central Plaza at Mission College on Saturday, October 28, 2023, from 7:30 AM to 12:30 PM.
Don’t miss out on this event and come support a great cause. You can register as a runner or check out sponsorship opportunities at www.missioncollege.edu/donate/5k.html.
4. Agnews State Hospital
For a chance at some paranormal activity in Santa Clara, you have to visit what is left of the Agnews State Hospital.
Agnews State Hospital, located in Santa Clara, California, was originally known as "The Great Asylum for the Insane" and was established as a psychiatric and medical care facility for individuals suffering from mental illness.
During the earthquake that struck on April 18, 1906, over 100 patients lost their lives. Post-earthquake, the hospital underwent reconstruction, adopting a low-rise, Mediterranean Revival architectural style. It officially reopened its doors in 1911 under the name Agnews State Mental Hospital, serving the community until the mid-1970s when the Lanterman Act (1971) facilitated the transfer of mental health treatment programs to local communities, aiming to enhance patient care. Consequently, several state hospitals, including Agnews, were shut down.
In April 1997, it was announced that the state would sell an 82.5-acre portion of the campus to Sun Microsystems (now Oracle) for its corporate headquarters and R&D campus. Concerns within the community about the preservation of historic buildings prompted Sun Microsystems to make a commitment to restore four historical buildings—the auditorium, the clock tower, the superintendent's villa, and the administration building—and preserve certain facilities for public accessibility. An open-air exhibition, featuring informational displays and photographs recounting the center's history, is now available to the public.
There are widespread rumors of paranormal activity at Agnews. Some have reported eerie occurrences on foggy nights. Witnesses entering the various buildings have described doors mysteriously opening, lights flickering on and off, and unsettling odors emanating from the new buildings' floors. If you're interested in a chance to witness some paranormal activity, come explore the remnants of Agnews for yourself.
On a side note, Green Day filmed their "Basket Case" music video at this location.
Location: 4000 Lafayette St., Santa Clara, California.
As October takes center stage in Santa Clara, get ready for a spine-tingling extravaganza like no other. From keeping the little ones enchanted at the Spooktaclara Halloween Party to satisfying your daredevil cravings at Great America or even breaking a sweat for a good cause at the Monster Dash and Bash 5K, Santa Clara is serving up thrills and chills. And for those who crave the supernatural, Agnews State Hospital has some spooky secrets waiting to be unraveled. So, slip into your most bewitching attire, summon your courage, and dive headfirst into the spine-tingling celebrations. This is Santa Clara's way of saying, "Trick or treat!" Let the haunting begin.
Celebrating AAPI Heritage Month in Santa Clara 2024: AAPI-Owned Restaurants
By Ben Landis, Marketing Manager at Discover Santa Clara
May is Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month. This month is dedicated to celebrating the contributions and influence of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders on American culture and society. According to recent census data, Santa Clara has a significant Asian population, comprising 45.9% of the city's demographic makeup, specifically categorized as "Asian alone."
We are proud to be the home of many Asian-American residents and businesses. There are numerous AAPI-owned businesses spread throughout Santa Clara that we encourage you to explore. Notably, along El Camino Real, there is a stretch of various strip malls containing many fantastic Korean-owned restaurants, an area Santa Clara proudly calls “Koreatown.”
There are countless businesses, and we couldn't possibly name them all, but we recommend researching some spots on Yelp or Google. To get you started, here are some fan-favorite restaurants that the team at Discover Santa Clara has visited and recommended.
1. Rantei Japanese Cuisine
Rantei Japanese Cuisine is a community favorite among Santa Clara residents. This cozy spot boasts a low-key ambiance. If you visit on a random weekday evening, you'll find a lively environment full of loyal patrons—a true testament to the deliciousness of the food.
Here, you can enjoy classic Japanese dishes such as sushi, sashimi, and various noodle and rice dishes. Each dish is beautifully plated and bursting with flavor.
Rantei offers a wide array of delicious options, but if you're looking to sample their signature offerings, the Chirashi Don Combination and Kaisen Don are essential choices. If you’re up for an adventure, try the Omakase Sushi (Japanese for 'I’ll leave it up to you'), where you will be offered an assortment of the chef’s selection of specialty fish. The Omakase dining experience allows the chef to showcase seasonal and specialty ingredients, presenting their skills and creativity. Rantei Japanese Cuisine is a Santa Clara staple and should be on your list of places to check out.
Address: 1271 Franklin Mall, Santa Clara, CA 95050
Check out this Instagram Reel we created about Rantei Japanese Cuisine to get a sneak peek of what you can expect.
2. Puranpoli
We haven’t forgotten our vegetarians; this next spot is especially for you! Puranpoli is an authentic vegetarian Indian restaurant that specializes in Maharashtrian cuisine. The ambiance is delightfully unassuming and casual, yet the restaurant offers top-notch service and delicious food. Don't let the relaxed setting fool you—prepare to be impressed!
Here, you can savor classic dishes like Vada Pav, Misal Pav, Sabudana Vada, Palak Paneer, Kadai Paneer, and Sukhi Batata Bhaji, among others. These dishes are expertly seasoned, showcasing the chefs' mastery of an abundance of spices.
Address: 3074B Scott Blvd Santa Clara, CA 95054
The Discover Santa Clara team visited Puranpoli recently, check out this Instagram Reel to check out the experience for yourself.
3. Seorai Korean BBQ
Are you searching for the perfect place to gather with friends? Look no further than Seorai Korean BBQ, nestled in the heart of Santa Clara's Koreatown. Korean BBQ is best enjoyed surrounded by friends and family, making Seorai the ideal destination for a memorable group dining experience.
At Seorai, you can indulge in beloved dishes like the Seafood Pancake, Corn Cheese, and a variety of soups and noodle dishes. Yet, the true star of the show is their selection of classic KBBQ meats—brisket, galbi, pork belly, and more, each expertly seasoned and grilled to perfection. You can choose to order a la carte or opt for one of their specially curated BBQ Combos. Whether you're a Korean BBQ aficionado or a curious newcomer, Seorai promises an authentic and delightful culinary adventure.
Address: 3044 El Camino Real Santa Clara, CA 95051
The Discover Santa Clara team visited Seorai Korean BBQ check out this Instagram Reel to check out the experience for yourself.
4. Dumpling Capital
Dumpling Capital is another neighborhood gem in Santa Clara that should be on your radar. This spot is an authentic Chinese restaurant specializing in Shanghainese cuisine. If the name "Dumpling Capital" leaves you guessing, here's a hint: you should definitely try their specialty—dumplings!
There are plenty of options to choose from, including Xiao Long Bao (Shanghai Soup Dumpling), Pork & Shrimp Siu Mai, and Shanghai Pan Fried Soup Dumplings—just a few of the classic dishes to get you started. You can also explore other fan favorites like Salt & Pepper Fish, Chow Mein, Fried Rice, and Green Onion Pancake to round out your dining experience.
Fun fact: Dumplings represent wealth and prosperity in Chinese culture and are often made (and eaten) with family and friends during Chinese New Year as a group activity. However, you can enjoy them year-round because they are absolutely delicious, and Dumpling Capital in Santa Clara is one of the best places to savor some amazing Chinese dumplings.
Address: 5075 Stevens Creek Blvd Ste 10 Santa Clara, CA 95051
Check out this Instagram Reel we created about Dumpling Capital to get a sneak peek of what you can expect.
5. Sulbing Café
Finally, do you have a sweet tooth? We've saved dessert for last: you've got to try Sulbing Café. Dive into the delightful world of Bingsu, a milk-based shaved ice Korean dessert. Depending on your chosen flavor, it can include a variety of different toppings.
Sulbing Café offers a wide array of amazing flavors, including Mango, Strawberry, and Green Tea. During our visit, we indulged in the Tiramisu Sulbing, which features a slice of tiramisu on top of the shaved ice, accompanied by a cup of espresso to pour over the Bingsu, enhancing its flavors beautifully.
Located in the same shopping plaza as Seorai Korean BBQ, Sulbing Café is the ideal place to finish off a delicious meal. After enjoying a hearty Korean BBQ, consider saving some room for dessert and trying out Sulbing Café. You won’t be disappointed!
Address: 3050 El Camino Real Santa Clara, CA 95051
Check out this Instagram Reel we created about Sulbing Cafe to get a sneak peek of what you can expect.
Honorable mention: Jiaren Cafe
Jiaren Cafe is an amazing AAPI and women-owned coffeeshop in Santa Clara. We have written a blog post about this spot that you should check out here. (Discover Santa Clara has also made an Instagram Reel about Jiaren Cafe.)
Address: 1171 Homestead Rd #140b, Santa Clara, CA 95050
All these spots mentioned are amazing and we've only scratched the surface of what Santa Clara has to offer. We encourage you to explore other AAPI-owned businesses along El Camino Real and beyond. Check out our Instagram @DiscoverSantaClara to stay in the know about the latest and greatest places in Santa Clara.
Celebrate AAPI Heritage Month by supporting these fantastic local eateries and many others and experiencing the diverse flavors of Asia right here in Santa Clara.