Over two back-to-back weekends in April 2026, San Jose is hosting a string of can’t-miss events. From a massive pop culture convention to Bay FC’s first ever Star Wars™-themed soccer match between Bay FC and Ottawa Rapid FC of the Northern Super League to a free community street festival with Bay FC merch, April offers something for all ages
Here are some of the best things to do in the Bay Area, and how to make the most of them.
FandomCon 2026
FandomCon 2026 is a three-day pop culture convention at the San Jose Convention Center and one of the most anticipated events to attend in the Bay Area in April. The convention will celebrate anime, comics, gaming, cosplay, and more. Expect to see fans dressed as everything from Star Wars™ Jedi and Sith to anime heroes and video game legends.
The event’s main stage will host celebrity panels, Q&As, and behind-the-scenes conversations with voice actors, actors, and creators from some of the biggest franchises in TV, film, gaming, and anime. This year’s lineup includes panels on Arcane, Resident Evil, The Good Witch, Mighty Morphin Power Rangers, Marvel Rivals, and more.
Attendees can explore themed zones, shop rare collectibles and merch, attend fan-powered workshops, and take in cosplay competitions showcasing some of the most creative fans in the country.
📅 April 10–12, 2026
📍 San Jose Convention Center
🎟 Tickets available at fandomcon.com
What are the hours for FandomCon 2026? The hours for FandomCon 2026 are Friday 2 p.m. –8 p.m., Saturday 10 a.m. – 7 p.m., and Sunday 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. VIP pass holders get 30 minutes early access each day.
Is FandomCon good for families and kids? Yes, FandomCon is great for families and kids and makes a great outing for the whole family.
Can I wear a costume to FandomCon? Yes, wearing a costume to FandomCon is encouraged. Expect some of the most creative costumes in the country including Star Wars™ characters and more.
Bay FC Star Wars™ Match
Looking for fan festivals or themed events in San Jose on April 17? A galaxy far, far away is coming to San Jose and it is one of the most unique things to do in the Bay Area.
Bay FC will bring the force to PayPal Park on April 17 for a one-of-a-kind Star Wars™ Match as the club hosts Ottawa Rapids FC of Canada’s Northern Super League. Join Bay FC at 5 p.m. when the PayPal Park gates open for Bay Area Soccer and galactic celebration, with kickoff at 7 p.m.
Suit up in your best costume and enter the Star Wars™ Costume Contest, taking place during FanFest. Channel your inner Jedi, Sith, or any character from across the galaxy and compete for the title of most powerful fan in the universe. Also, during halftime, put your knowledge to the test with Star Wars™ Trivia.
The night gets even better with the Star Wars™ ticket bundle, which includes one match ticket and an exclusive official-sized Star Wars™ x Bay FC soccer ball — the best keepsake for fans of both the beautiful game and a galaxy far, far away.
Note: Make sure to come hungry. Local Bay Area food trucks will be available before kickoff and throughout the match.
📅 Friday, April 17, 2026 | Gates Open 5 p.m. | Kickoff 7 p.m.
📍 PayPal Park, San Jose, CA
🎟 Ticket bundles available at bayfc.com/tickets
Can I wear a Star Wars™ costume to the Bay FC match? Yes — fans are encouraged to wear a Star Wars™ costumes to PayPal Park and there is an on-site costume contest as part of the pre-match FanFest. Please note that all bags, including those carried as part of a costume, must comply to Bay FC’s bag policy.
What is Bay FC’s FanFest? Bay FC’s FanFest is a pre-match community celebration held at PayPal Park behind the scoreboard. For Star Wars™ Match on April 17, it will feature a costume contest for fans of all ages, Star Wars Costumers, food trucks, and more activities.
Viva CalleSJ
If you’re looking for free things to do in the San Francisco Bay Area, Viva CalleSJ is exactly what you need. Returning to the East Side of San Jose on Sunday, April 19, this beloved open streets festival transforms Alum Rock Avenue into a vibrant, car-free space for the community to walk, bike, eat, and connect. Now in its 10th year, it’s one of the best, and most affordable, things to do in the Bay Area.
The event runs from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. and promises a full day of fun with food trucks, dessert trucks, a DJ, and plenty of good energy. Bay FC representatives will be on-site with VANessa, the club’s mobile fan experience, featuring merchandise, giveaways, and fan engagement activities throughout the day.
📅 Sunday, April 19, 2026 | 10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
📍 1700 Alum Rock Ave, San Jose, CA 95116
💰 Free admission
Is Viva CalleSJ free? Yes, Viva CalleSJ is completely free and open to the public with no ticket required.
What is there to do at Viva CalleSJ? Attendees at Viva CalleSJ can walk or bike the car-free route, enjoy food trucks and dessert trucks, listen to a live DJ, and stop by the Bay FC activation featuring VANessa, Bay FC’s mobile fan experience with merch and giveaways.
What is VANessa? VANessa is Bay FC’s mobile fan experience that travels to community events across the Bay Area with merchandise, giveaways, and fan engagement activities.
Is Viva CalleSJ family friendly? Yes, Viva CalleSJ is family friendly. It is a great option for families looking for a free, outdoor activity in San Jose.