San Jose is set to honor its rock ‘n’ roll roots this December with a unique tribute to the Grateful Dead. On the 60th anniversary of the band’s first performance under their legendary name, the nonprofit San Jose Rocks is planning to install a bronze plaque at San Jose City Hall - the very site where the band’s inaugural show took place on December 4, 1965.

The 20-by-30-inch plaque will feature the band’s iconic “Steal Your Face” logo and commemorate the historic “acid test” party that launched the Grateful Dead’s cosmic musical journey. Dan Orloff, founder of San Jose Rocks, describes the project as more than just a historical marker - it’s a celebration of the city’s musical heritage.

“San Jose was ground zero for the Grateful Dead’s cosmic launch,” Orloff explains. “This plaque is a shoutout to the night the music got weird, wild, and wonderfully historic right here in our city”.

The project has garnered support from local officials, including San Jose Mayor Matt Mahan, who acknowledges the band’s significance to the city’s cultural landscape. Fans and music enthusiasts can contribute to the project, with donation levels starting at $125 offering special perks like limited-edition handbills designed by legendary artist Stanley Mouse.

For those passionate about music history, the plaque represents more than just a piece of bronze - it’s a testament to San Jose’s role in the counterculture movement of the 1960s. The installation will serve as a permanent reminder of the city’s connection to one of the most influential rock bands in American history.

The dedication ceremony is planned for December 4, 2025, marking exactly 60 years since that transformative first performance. Music lovers, historians, and Grateful Dead fans are encouraged to participate and celebrate this significant cultural milestone.

More information about the project can be found on the San Jose Rocks website, where supporters can learn about contribution opportunities and the ongoing efforts to preserve the city’s rich musical legacy.