News/Blog

News and thoughts from our staff

December 05, 2025

Inside one of the world’s most anticipated new hotel openings

By Brittney Sherman

Hotel MOHI by Appellation is set to open in early 2026 in downtown Morgan Hill, introducing the city’s first full-service luxury boutique hotel and strengthening its position as a rising culinary destination in Silicon Valley. Developed by Chef Charlie Palmer, hospitality leader Christopher Hunsberger, and vintner Frank Léal, the 76-room hotel centers on a strong farm-to-table approach.

The property will offer a restaurant led by Chef Palmer, a rooftop pool with a pocket bar, and a wine-country–inspired spa featuring olive-based treatments. It will also provide Morgan Hill’s largest indoor event venue. A daytime café and bakery will serve breakfast and then shift into a cocktail and wine bar in the evening.

December 04, 2025

Morgan Hill Holiday Lights Parade

By Brittney Sherman

Downtown Morgan Hill will shine bright on Saturday, December 6, 2025, as the community comes together for the annual Holiday Lights Parade. The parade begins at 5:30 PM along Monterey Road and includes the tree lighting at 6:30 PM.

Families can expect festive floats, local groups, music, and a seasonal atmosphere that has become a beloved Morgan Hill tradition. Free parking is available at the VTA Butterfield lot.

Full event details: https://visitmorganhill.org/event-calendar-detail/holidaylightsparade

December 03, 2025

Merry Market Holiday Bazaar

By Brittney Sherman

Morgan Hill kicks off the season with the Merry Market Holiday Bazaar on Friday, December 5, 2025, from 4–9 PM at the Community & Cultural Center.
Event details: https://visitmorganhill.org/event-calendar-detail/merrymarket12625

This festive evening brings together local makers, artisans, and small businesses for a one-stop holiday shopping experience. Visitors can browse handcrafted gifts, seasonal treats, and unique finds while enjoying a family-friendly, community-driven atmosphere.

The event supports Morgan Hill’s growing small-business ecosystem and encourages residents to shop local as the holidays approach. Bring friends, grab a warm drink, explore the vendor booths, and make a night of it downtown.

Start your season with local spirit — see you at the Merry Market.

November 27, 2025

Happy Thanksgiving!

By Brittney Sherman

From everyone with Choose Morgan Hill, have a Happy Thanksgiving!

November 26, 2025

Pedestrian Bridge Relocated to Support Major Flood-Protection Upgrades in Morgan Hill

By Brittney Sherman

An 18,000-pound pedestrian bridge in Morgan Hill was successfully relocated on September 18, 2025, as part of Valley Water’s upgrades to the West Little Llagas Creek flood protection system. The bridge, originally installed in 2008, was moved about 1,550 feet to span Edmundson Creek, allowing it to remain an active link in the city’s trail network.

The relocation clears space for new flood-control channels beneath Watsonville Road and Middle Avenue, which will redirect storm flows and reduce flooding risks for nearby neighborhoods and businesses. When the broader creek improvements finish next year, the upgraded channel will provide 100-year flood protection. The work is a component of the Upper Llagas Creek Flood Protection Project, supported by Valley Water’s Safe, Clean Water Program, state subvention funds, and a federal USDA grant.

November 21, 2025

Pop-up markets, like Sidewalk Saturdays, become launchpads for small businesses

By Brittney Sherman

South Bay sidewalk festivals and pop-up markets have shifted from pandemic stopgaps to effective incubators for microbusinesses. Participation has grown dramatically, with events now drawing dozens of vendors, live entertainment, and steady crowds. Many sellers are part-time makers—teachers, corporate workers, first responders—using these markets to test products, find customers, and, in some cases, move into permanent shops.

Cities such as Fremont and Morgan Hill are intentionally using these events as low-cost launchpads for early-stage entrepreneurs. Organizers report that markets help vendors build brand awareness, gather real-time feedback, and generate direct sales. Cities also note increased foot traffic in business districts during festival days, reinforcing their value as a local economic development tool.