Where Santa Clara Is Headed Next: A message to our community as we begin 2026
 As we begin a new year, I want to focus our attention not on what's behind us but on where Santa Clara is headed next.
This is a city that has never stood still. Santa Clara has grown, adapted, and reimagined itself time and again, always guided by a belief that progress should improve everyday life for the people who live and work here.
As Mayor, my responsibility especially in this year ahead is to keep us moving forward with intention, integrity, and confidence. To protect what makes Santa Clara special while preparing thoughtfully for what comes next.
That balance has always defined who we are.
This year, the world comes to Santa Clara. We will host Super Bowl LX in February and FIFA World Cup 2026 matches, the biggest sporting events on the planet. Santa Clara will be at the center of global attention, and this is our moment to shine.
But these events are not just about what happens inside Levi's Stadium. They are about our community. That's why we've planned celebrations that bring residents together, starting with our very first event of the year.
Join us for the 2026 Silicon Valley Lunar New Year Together & Night Market on Jan. 31 and Feb. 1…the first Lunar New Year celebration in the Bay Area and the perfect way to kick off Super Bowl week. This two-day festival will feature cultural performances, food, and community pride. This event is FREE and the first 3,000 registered guests will receive a special Lunar New Year gift (registration or visiting the Chinese Cultural Booth required).
Register now at Eventbrite: 2026 Silicon Valley Lunar New Year Together
Throughout the year, we'll continue celebrating with the STEM Bowl at our Convention Center, where innovation meets excitement; watch parties for World Cup matches so we can cheer together; and special events at Levi's Stadium designed specifically for Santa Clara residents and families.
These global moments belong to us—to the people who live here, work here, and call Santa Clara home. Let's celebrate together and show the world what our community is all about.
One of the most important roles of a Mayor is not simply to say yes to opportunity. It is to ask the hard questions before decisions are made.
Questions like:
- How does this impact our neighborhoods?
- Is this financially responsible not just today but years from now?
- Does this strengthen quality of life for residents?
- Are we planning for the long term not just the moment?
As your Mayor, I will continue to ask those questions even when it is uncomfortable and even when the answers are not simple.
And I believe our community should ask them too.
A strong city is not one that avoids debate.
A strong city is one that welcomes thoughtful discussion, respects differing views, and insists on transparency and accountability.
Progress is best achieved when residents are informed, engaged, and unafraid to speak up.
This year brings visibility, opportunity, and responsibility. As Santa Clara prepares for global events and continued growth, my focus remains clear:
- Protecting neighborhoods and quality of life
- Making smart, responsible financial decisions
- Supporting public safety, youth, and community services
- Ensuring Santa Clara is prepared—not rushed—for the future
Big moments will come and go.
What lasts are the decisions we make together.
Santa Clara's story has never been about standing still.
It is about thoughtful leadership, engaged residents, and a shared belief that we can do big things the right way.
My door remains open.
My commitment remains strong.
And my confidence in this city has never been greater.
Here's to a year of smart questions, strong values, and a clear vision for where Santa Clara is headed next.
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With confidence in our city,
 Lisa M. Gillmor
Mayor of Santa Clara
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