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San Jose, United States

Traditions and customs in San Jose

5 customs and traditions in San Jose — what they are, and how to take part without causing offence.

Last updated 2026-08-09

1. Silicon Valley

Silicon Valley
Photo: joiseyshowaa · CC BY SA 2.0 · source

The garages, campuses and origin stories are all within a short drive.

2. Vietnamese community

Vietnamese community
Photo: Richard Masoner / Cyclelicious · CC BY SA 2.0 · source

The largest outside Vietnam, concentrated on Story Road and Senter.

3. Farmers markets

Farmers markets
Photo: Richard Masoner / Cyclelicious · CC BY SA 2.0 · source

The Santa Clara Valley was orchards before it was chips, and the produce reflects it.

4. Startup culture

Startup culture
Photo: See-ming Lee (SML) · CC BY SA 2.0 · source

Demo nights and meetups are open and easy to attend.

5. Mexican-American heritage

Mexican-American heritage
Photo: See-ming Lee (SML) · CC BY SA 2.0 · source

The city has been majority-Hispanic in origin since long before the tech industry.

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