On the eve of the Super Bowl, San Jose was buzzing as thousands of fans flooded into the South Bay ahead of the highly anticipated game.

With kickoff at Levi’s Stadium just hours away, excited football fans streamed through San Jose Mineta International Airport, many thrilled simply to have secured a ticket.

“I’ve been a season ticket holder for 20 years, and I won the lottery to buy a ticket at face value,” said Jason Trichler, who traveled from Seattle.

San Pedro Square quickly became a hotspot, packed with Seahawks and Patriots fans enjoying live music, dancing, and shopping for NFL merchandise.

The influx of visitors also gave a boost to local businesses, with bars filled to capacity and vendors selling everything from team apparel to local goods.

“Business is incredible — just look at the crowds, it’s amazing,” said Johnny Clarke of San Jose.

Despite rooting for opposing teams, fans mingled easily, united by the festive atmosphere and the chance to escape colder weather for a California-style celebration. “It’s really, really nice. It feels like a market — that’s why we came,” said Gwen Trotter, also visiting from Seattle.

Just a few blocks away, City Hall hosted a high-energy street party featuring DJ Dom Dolla, adding to the citywide excitement.

From downtown gatherings to official events, San Jose embraced its role as host city, making sure Super Bowl fans felt the party long before kickoff. Fans at San Pedro Square could continue the celebration at the official Super Bowl viewing party on Sunday from 3 p.m. to 10 p.m.