San José Mineta International Airport Welcomes Summer with New Shops and Midyear Festive Cheer

Seasonal activation and new concessions bring joy and local flavors to Terminal B
 

San José, Calif. — San José Mineta International Airport (SJC) is kicking off July with a series of additions designed to enhance the passenger experience: the arrival of a festive month-long activation in partnership with Christmas in the Park, along with the debut of one new food kiosk and two updated retail concessions in Terminal B.    

SJC is bringing a touch of holiday cheer to the summer travel season through a special activation with Christmas in the Park. Located in the Terminal B baggage claim area and running through July 31, the display features a festive sleigh and themed décor — including one of SJC’s very own baby chicks — to brighten the arrival experience. 

This collaboration is part of SJC’s ongoing efforts to create memorable experiences for travelers, bringing the joy of the holidays to a different season. It also draws subtle inspiration from the origins of “Christmas in July,” a tradition introduced by the U.S. Army during World War II to encourage early gift sending to troops overseas.   

Christmas in the Park is a beloved San José nonprofit organization known for its whimsical winter installations, including animated exhibits, decorated trees and a 65-foot walk-through holiday tree. The event draws more than 700,000 guests each year to Plaza de Cesar Chavez and has become one of the Bay Area’s most cherished seasonal traditions since its founding in 1980.   

Also new this month, Mighty Mallow Crispie Treats is now open in Terminal B near Gate 30. Operated by Provenzano Resources and founded by Bay Area entrepreneur Nicole Milliner, this woman- and minority-owned business gives the classic crispie treat a gourmet twist.   

Crafted in small batches using real butter, organic fruit, premium chocolate and natural flavor-infused marshmallows, Mighty Mallow’s handcrafted treats offer travelers a nostalgic yet elevated snacking experience. With grab-and-go convenience, the kiosk is ideal for preflight bites or thoughtful gifts on-the-go.   

Two retail shops at Gates 26 and 32 recently received an overnight refresh and are now operating under the names “San José Essentials” and “SJC Essentials.” These are temporary concepts introduced by Paradies Lagardère as part of SJC’s new retail concession program. Approved earlier this year by the San José City Council, the program includes $16.9 million in capital investment and the development of 12 new retail outlets across Terminals A and B. Nearly 50 percent of participating businesses are certified Airport Concessions Disadvantaged Business Enterprises (ACDBEs).   

Passengers may notice continued retail construction throughout the terminals in the coming months as the program takes shape. SJC looks forward to unveiling more new storefronts soon.