Families, Joy, and New Beginnings: Santa Clara County Superior Court Celebrates Adoption Day 2025

SAN JOSÉ, California (November 19, 2025):  On Friday, November 21, 2025, the Superior Court of California, County of Santa Clara will open its doors to one of the year’s most heartwarming events—Adoption Day 2025, a cherished statewide tradition that honors the creation of “forever families.”

This year’s celebration will bring together 14 adoptive families welcoming 16 children into permanent homes. Judges, court staff, and the County’s Department of Family and Children’s Services (DFCS) will join together in the Family Justice Center Courthouse to finalize adoptions, share stories, and celebrate love that lasts a lifetime.

“Adoption Day is one of the most meaningful traditions our Court hosts each year,” said Presiding Judge Julie A. Emede. “Each adoption represents not just a legal milestone, but a deeply personal promise of love, safety, and belonging.”

“Adoption Day is a deeply moving celebration—a tribute to the extraordinary families who have opened not just their homes, but their hearts, to children in need of love and belonging. These adoptive parents have made a life-changing promise: to offer a safe, nurturing, and permanent place their children can always call home. For a child, there is no greater comfort, no deeper joy, than knowing they are cherished, protected, and unconditionally loved. That is the power of family. That is the gift of adoption,” said Wendy Kinnear, DFCS Director.

Following the morning hearings, families will gather on the courthouse’s eighth floor for a joyful celebration featuring children’s activities, commemorative photos, and refreshments provided by community partners. Balloons, banners, and laughter will fill the halls as judges and families pose for pictures and share in the joy of this life-changing day.

Adoption Day highlights the compassionate collaboration between the Superior Court and DFCS, underscoring their shared commitment to making the legal process accessible, family-centered, and filled with dignity and care.

Event Details

What: Adoption Day 2025 Celebration
When: Friday, November 21, 2025 | 8:00 a.m.
Where: Family Justice Center Courthouse, 201 N. First Street, San Jose

Media access has been authorized under a standing order of the Court. Families who consent to interviews or photos will wear name tags with decorative stickers for easy identification. Members of the media are asked to respect the privacy of those who have not granted consent.

Join us as we witness moments of joy, commitment, and the start of forever for children and families across Santa Clara County.