This Month’s Events Not to Miss

Spring is arriving across Silicon Valley, bringing with it a wonderful lineup of performances and seasonal experiences. From world-class music to cherry blossoms in bloom, here are a few events worth adding to your calendar this month.

Hanami Night Viewing at Hakone Estate and Gardens

March 16 – April 3, 2026
Weekdays only (Monday through Friday)
6:00 pm – 9:30 pm

Experience the magic of spring during Hakone’s beloved Hanami Night Viewing, where more than 40 cherry blossom trees are beautifully illuminated throughout the gardens after sunset. Walking the lantern-lit pathways beneath blooming sakura creates a peaceful and unforgettable evening.

This special event takes place on weekday evenings only and is separate from regular daytime admission.

Event details and updates:
https://www.hakone.com/events

If you’d like a closer look at these beautiful gardens before visiting, I filmed a segment here for The American Dream TV highlighting the history and peaceful beauty of Hakone Estate and Gardens. It’s one of the most unique cultural treasures in Silicon Valley and especially magical during cherry blossom season.

To watch the segment click here or copy the link: https://bit.ly/JanetSouzaADTVepisode4

Music Theatre Workshop Performance – Santa Clara University

March 17, 2026
7:30 pm

Santa Clara University’s talented student performers present an engaging Music Theatre Workshop Performance, featuring scenes and selections from beloved musical theater repertoire. These performances offer an intimate look at emerging performers and the creative energy of the university’s arts community, and I’ll be joining the production as the narrator for the evening!

Event details:
https://events.scu.edu/arts-and-sciences/event/371667-music-theatre-workshop-performance

Hollywood Spectacular – Symphony San Jose

Saturday, March 28, 2026
7:30 pm

Sunday, March 29, 2026
2:30 pm

Symphony San Jose presents Hollywood Spectacular, an exciting program celebrating the unforgettable music of film and television. From sweeping cinematic themes to iconic soundtracks, this concert highlights the music that has helped define some of the most beloved movies of our time.

It’s a wonderful evening for both classical music lovers and film fans alike, offering the chance to hear these legendary scores performed live by a full symphony orchestra.

Learn more and view concert details:
https://www.symphonysanjose.org/attend/2025-2026-season/concerts/hollywood-spectacular/

J.S. Bach: St. Matthew Passion – San José Symphonic Choir

Sunday, March 29, 2026
5:00 pm

This monumental masterpiece for double choir, double orchestra, youth choir, and soloists unfolds with gripping drama, luminous arias, and majestic choruses that have moved audiences for nearly three centuries. Often considered Bach’s most profound and expansive work, St. Matthew Passion is a "bucket list" opportunity to experience music of extraordinary depth and scale.  Along with the incredible soloists, we'll also be collaborating with the San José Baroque Orchestra and Vivace Youth Chorus. I am honored to have a small solo in this incredible performance.  Seats are filling quickly, so consider purchasing your tickets soon before we sell out!

Learn more about the 2025–2026 season:
https://www.sanjosesymphonicchoir.org/2025-26-season/

Reserve tickets here:
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/js-bach-st-matthew-passion-tickets-1982537936336?aff=web