San Jose in November: weather, events and what to know
November is a pleasant, uncrowded month in San Jose: mild, mostly sunny days, cool nights and the first rains of the season. Clocks fell back on November 1, so sunset comes around 4:50 p.m. The holiday season arrives right after Thanksgiving with Christmas in the Park in downtown.
November at a glance
- Typical temperatures: Highs in the upper 60s °F, lows in the mid 40s (approximate)
- Rain: Light and sporadic; the rainy season begins
- Daylight: Clocks fell back Sunday, November 1; sunset is about 4:50 p.m.
- Air quality: Wildfire smoke is less common than in September and October but can still occur
- Crowd level: Low, with a small bump on Thanksgiving weekend
- Thanksgiving: Thursday, November 26, 2026
Weather in San Jose in November and what to pack
Light layers: mornings and evenings are cool, afternoons mild.
A light rain jacket or compact umbrella.
Comfortable walking shoes.
Sunglasses for low autumn sun.
A warmer layer for evening holiday lights.
Top events in San Jose in November 2026
5 eventsAlso in San Jose in November
seasonal picks- Thanksgiving
- Christmas in the Park
- Downtown Ice
- Sharks home games at the SAP Center: check the schedule.
- 49ers and other events at Levi's Stadium in Santa Clara: check schedules for traffic.
- Museum seasons: The Tech Interactive
Crowds, prices and what to book ahead
Calmest: early to mid November, weekdays. Busiest: Thanksgiving weekend and Sharks or stadium game nights. Book ahead: Thanksgiving dinner, Winchester Mystery House tours and downtown hotels for game nights. Getting around: VTA light rail runs reduced schedules on Thanksgiving; check ahead.
What changes in San Jose in November
Cooler, clearer air makes hiking in Alum Rock Park and the foothills pleasant.
First rains green the hills.
Earlier sunset brings holiday lights on sooner.
Fire season is winding down but can flare during warm, dry wind events.
Best things to do in November
5 picksVisit The Tech Interactive and the Winchester Mystery House.
Walk Santana Row and Japantown.
Eat Vietnamese food on Story Road.
Visit the Computer History Museum in nearby Mountain View.
Sample November itinerary
Day 1: The Tech Interactive, lunch at San Pedro Square Market, the Winchester Mystery House, and dinner downtown.
Day 2: Japantown, Santana Row, and a hike at Alum Rock Park or a drive to Santa Cruz.
Questions
6 answersIs San Jose worth visiting in November?
Yes. The weather is mild and crowds are small, with museums and food as the draw.
What should I wear in San Jose in November?
Layers, a light rain jacket and comfortable shoes.
When do clocks change?
Daylight saving time ended at 2 a.m. on Sunday, November 1, 2026.
When does Christmas in the Park open?
It typically opens the day after Thanksgiving; confirm the 2026 date with the organizer.
Is wildfire smoke still a concern?
Less so than in early fall, but check air quality if you're sensitive.
What events are in San Jose in November 2026?
Thanksgiving, Sharks games, and holiday openings such as Christmas in the Park and Downtown Ice (dates to confirm). --- *An independent local guide. Weather figures are approximate climate norms. Several holiday dates were not confirmed for 2026; verify with organizers before you go.* Also on the calendar: Jerry Seinfeld and Mo Amer.