The Best January 2025 Events in Every State

The holiday season might be careening toward closing time, but there’s still plenty to celebrate, because the January events calendar across America is still loaded with bright and merry happenings. And the fact is, that with many of the nation's best seasonal light displays staying turned on long past midnight on New Year’s Eve, it's going to feel festive well into 2025. This year, January events feature numerous ice & snow carving competitions, winter carnivals, cold water plunges, theatrical events, music festivals and multiple ‘Restaurant Weeks’. With this great group of January events, there's no doubt that 2025 is going to get off to great start, so click on the slideshow to find out the best events in your state.

You have until January 5 to witness the bright lights of the Wonderland Under Warrior event at Rickwood Caverns State Park as this season, the park’s caves have once again been illuminated with holiday lights and adorned with cheerful displays. Similarly, the captivating Glow Wild animal-inspired lantern exhibit at the Birmingham Zoo will enchant visitors until January 20. Elsewhere, the Alabama Dance Festival will take place in Birmingham & Tuscaloosa (January 11-26) and the town of Foley will be a good time during its annual Gumbo & Alabama Slammer Festival on January 25.

In Anchorage, the locals will once again embrace winter beauty on an expansive network of trails—perfect for snow-biking or skiing, and you’re more than welcome to join them. The state's largest city will transform into a cultural hotspot during the Anchorage Folk Festival (January 23 - February 2), which is a showcase of exceptional folk artists from across the nation. Elsewhere, the Alaska Railroad's Aurora Winter Train will be running all season long and will once again be offering unforgettable journeys for all passengers. 

Your window to soak in the awe-inspiring Grand Canyon Celebration of Art is open until January 20, an event that sees artists elevate the South Rim's majesty with creations made outdoors. Down south, the Tucson Jazz Festival (January 17-25) brings smooth sounds to town, while the Native American Fine Arts Festival unfolds in Litchfield Park on January 11-12. Other happenings include the Rock 'n' Roll Running Series returning to Phoenix (January 18-19) and the Wings Over Willcox event will celebrate the majesty of Sandhill Cranes on January 16-19. 

Travelers can experience the radiance of Little Rock Zoo's enchanting GloWILD! light extravaganza, (featuring silk lanterns and over 50,000 lights) until January 5, while in Hot Springs, cinephiles will be delighted by the return of the Arkansas Shorts short film festival from January 3-5. Elsewhere, Natural State Music lovers won't want to miss the return of the Ozark Mountain Music Festival, which will take Eureka Springs by storm from January 16-19.

Celebrate the start of the New Year with the iconic Tournament of Roses Parade and Rose Bowl (Oregon versus Ohio State), which will light up Pasadena on January 1. Elevate your star-studded experience at the A-list Palm Springs International Film Festival on January 2-13. Immerse yourself in the lush landscapes of wine country, where the Napa Truffle Festival (January 17-20) and Winter Wineland in Sonoma County (January 18-19) promise great times for food & drink lovers. Meanwhile, Mendocino County invites you to savor the bounty of the sea at its indulgent Seafood & Sips Festival (January 25-February 2).

Aspen as the adrenaline-pumping X Games returns to town on January 23-25, bringing plenty of adrenaline-pumping events and merriment with it. In Breckenridge, the International Snow Sculpture Championships will take place on January 20-29, once again bringing snow to life in a mesmerizing display of artistic prowess. Elsewhere, the largest ice climbing festival in the nation will take place in Ouray on January 23-26.

Disney on Ice returns to Hartford from January 2-5, ensuring a magical start to the new year for all. Over at the Mohegan Sun Resort in Montville, prepare for a flavor explosion at the Sun Wine & Food Fest (January 23-26), where winter nights will be set ablaze with tasty bites and drink delights.

Why not join the fearless crowd at Dewey Beach on New Year's Day for the 11th Annual Dewey Dunk, a wacky "group sea plunge" that doubles as a charitable endeavor? If staying warm & cozy is more your style, bask in the holiday warmth at the Winterthur Museum Garden & Library during their Yuletide at Winterthur event. Running through January 5, this festive celebration fills the stately home with seasonal delight. Foodie lovers will want to mark their calendar for Newark's Restaurant Week from January 16-22, a culinary extravaganza that promises to tantalize your taste buds.

For a dose of old-school glamor, head to South Beach for the 48th Annual Art Deco Weekend Miami (January 18-20), as this celebration of all things Art Deco promises live music, vibrant dancing, guided walks, a classic car show, and much more. Elsewhere in the Sunshine State, Crystal River will hold its annual Manatee Festival (January 18-19) while on the Panhandle, the 30A Songwriters Festival takes center stage (January 16-20), featuring over 200 performances and headline sets from the likes of The Jayhawks, Melissa Ethridge,  Amos Lee, Maggie Rose, Secret Sisters and more across dozens of venues in South Walton County.

Dive into the dazzling wonderland of lights at the Atlanta Botanical Gardens with the Garden Lights, Holiday Nights event, which keeps things merry & bright all the way until January 12. Celebrate the legacy of Martin Luther King, Jr. on his federal holiday, January 20, as Georgia comes alive with parades and festivities honoring its native son, with Athens and Savannah showcasing standout parades.

On Oahu, the 32nd Annual New Year's ʻOhana Festival takes place on January 11 and on the Big Island, the Hawaiian Cup Pickleball Tournament takes to the court on January 15-19. Last but not least, the Hawaii Symphony Orchestra will ring in the new year with “A Tribute to Mr. Sinatra” on January 11 and “JoAnn Conducts Pictures” at an Exhibition on January 12.

Ring in 2025 with the quirky and unforgettable New Year's Eve Potato Drop in Boise, a spud-centric spectacle you won't want to miss. Then, Head to Coeur d'Alene for a cozy and indulgent experience at the Mac & Cheese Festival on January 18, where local chefs vie for the coveted "Golden Noodle" in a competition that promises ooey-gooey comfort food bliss.

Kick off your 2025 adventures in Alton, where the Alton Eagle Ice Festival (January 4) promises a delightful lineup of activities centered around the majestic return of the local winter Bald Eagle population. Glide into Rockford in the middle of the month for the 38th Annual Illinois Snow Sculpting Competition (January 22-25), where skilled sculptors from across the state will vie to represent Illinois in the national championships. In the Windy City, the cultural calendar is brimming with excitement as the Chicago International Puppet Theater Festival (January 15-26) returns to town, captivating audiences with its creative and whimsical performances and you'll be able to do your best The Bear impression during Chicago's annual Restaurant Week (January 24 - February 9).

Embark on a frosty adventure in Shipshewana at its annual Ice Festival & Chili Cookoff (January 17-18), where your eyes will be treated to dazzling ice sculptures, and your taste buds will savor some of the finest chili recipes in the state. In Indy, the holiday spirit gracefully glides through January at Holliday Park, where the seasonal ice rink will offer a festive, frosty experience. The state capital will also host Devour Indy (January 20 - February 5), a delectable food and cocktail festival spread across various venues. Meanwhile, Richmond will showcase its ice carving prowess at the Meltdown Winter Ice Festival on January 30 - February 1, turning the town into a winter wonderland.

Kickstart your month in Des Moines at the Confluence Brewing Company's Chili Cookoff on January 11. In Des Moines, the Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden will host its Sip & Stroll event on January 28, which offers guests a perfect blend of lush surroundings and delectable wine tasting. Experience small-town charm in Keokuk as it hosts the 41st Annual Bald Eagle Appreciation Day (January 18-19) then cap off the month with a thrilling weekend at The University of Okoboji Winter Games in the Iowa Great Lakes region. From broomball and softball to fireworks, kite flying, and the daring Polar Plunge lake dive, this event (January 23-26) promises an exhilarating, like-nothing-else celebration of winter in Iowa’s great outdoors.

Dive into the vibrant arts scene in Wichita as the city kicks off the new year with the First Friday Gallery Crawl on January 3. Brace yourself for the roaring excitement of the Cars for Charities Rod & Custom Car Show (January 18-19) and savor hoppy delights at the Beerfest hosted by Wichita Brewing Company on January 18. In the cool college town of Lawrence, Restaurant Week (January 16 - 26) will see tasty offerings spread across venues throughout town.

Head to Gilbertsville for the Bald Eagle Experience (January 25), a celebration of majestic Bald Eagles that typically includes thrilling events like eagle viewing cruises. Meanwhile, in Lexington, Rupp Arena will be the epicenter of the January action, with multiple Kentucky Wildcats games and the city’s Lexington Opera House will host the Concert With The Stars on January 11 featuring Haley Fish, Hayley Podschun, Darian Sanders and more.

While many parts of the nation bid farewell to the holiday festivities come January, Louisiana ushers in its lively Carnival season with a burst of color and revelry. Things get started with the renowned Phunny Phorty Phellows, as they take their epic annual ride along St. Charles Avenue on January 6 (a parade that marks the start of carnival season in the city). Then, immerse yourself in "geek culture" at Fan Expo, a Comic-Con-style event on January 10-12. Venture beyond the city limits to experience Battle of New Orleans Commemoration Week, which will take place across Southern Louisiana on January 8-12.

Summon your courage and head to Old Orchard Beach on New Year's Day for the Lobster Dip. Here, you can join countless other fearless participants as you plunge into the frigid waters of the Atlantic, all in the name of a good cause. Kennebunk follows suit on the same day with the 24th Annual Freezin' For a Reason Atlantic Dip, proving that daring cold-water dunks are a winter tradition worth embracing. Elsewhere in the state, Rangeley Lakes offers a frosty (but dry!) alternative with Snodeo on January 30 - February 1. Here, you'll be able to delight in the wintry festivities, featuring snowmobile races, cardboard box races, and a dazzling display of fireworks.

Witness the artistry of ice sculptures and indulge your taste buds in the briny delight of fresh local oysters in Cambridge on the Eastern Shore for its Ice & Oyster Festival (January 17-18). In Baltimore, the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra will feature The Princess Bride in Concer on January 3-5 and The Planets With Heyward on January 9. Last but not least, don't miss the chance to glide across the seasonal ice skating rink at the Inner Harbor until January 20.

Brave the chilly waters of Boston Harbor (or simply witness the shenanigans from afar) at Carson Beach in South Boston on New Year's Day as the legendary L Street Brownies embark on their annual Polar Plunge. Beantown will also host the Celtic Music Festival (January 16-19) and the Belmont World Family Film Festival (January 18-20 & 26).

Detroit Zoo’s dazzling Wild Lights illuminations are sure to spread merriment and brightness through the dreary early days of January as the event runs until January 31. Elsewhere, Grand Rapids will be full of excitement on January 10 when the city marks the start of World of Winter, the largest winter festival in the Midwest. Over two months, the festival transforms the city streets into a vibrant canvas of art, music, and the inviting warmth of awesome food and drink. For fans of Nordic sports, the 138th Annual Ski Jumping Tournament descends upon Ishpeming on January 17-19, promising thrilling displays of athleticism against a wintry backdrop.

Enjoy the wintry fun at IceFest in Breezy Point (January 3-4), where scores of frosty activities will set the tone for a great start to 2024. In Minneapolis, the puck will drop on the U.S. Pond Hockey Championships on January 22-26, promising exhilarating matches on frozen lakes and fun off the ice. Then brace yourself for the kickoff of the Great Northern Festival on January 23 (runs through February 2), which is a cherished annual Twin Cities tradition. This month-long extravaganza will once again unfold with a series of cultural and culinary events, ensuring a vibrant celebration of all things "Minny".

For a soul-stirring experience, attend the MLK Night of Culture at the Two Mississippi Museums (select dates throughout January) while down in Biloxi, keep the holiday spirit alive as the Mississippi Coast Coliseum & Convention Center continues to enchant with public ice skating sessions throughout the month. Up in Southaven, get ready for the excitement of the Rodeo of the Mid-South as it returns to town on January 18, promising a thrilling showcase of cowboy skills and Southern hospitality.

Illuminate your winter nights at the St. Louis Botanical Garden's enchanting Garden Glow event, running until January 4. Here, you can immerse yourself in the brilliance of over two million lights and indulge in several special interactive experiences. In Kansas City, culinary delights take the spotlight with the annual Restaurant Week from January 10-19, offering a tasty journey through the city's diverse food scene. Head south to Springfield on January 11 for the 5th Annual Mac & Cheese Festival, a celebration of cheesy goodness and then step back in time in the historic town of St. Charles (near St. Louis) as it hosts the Fête de Glacé ice carving competition on January 25.

The charming town of Butte invites you once again to embrace the winter spirit at the SNöFLINGA Winter Festival from January 31 - February 2. Dive into a weekend filled with entertaining activities like curling, snow-biking, and Nordic skiing lessons. Elsewhere in the state, the Brash Rodeo Winter Series will take place on select dates throughout the month, while over in Great Falls, the Montana Agricultural and Industrial Exhibit will take place on January 15-17.

There is still time to catch Omaha's impressive Holiday Lights Festival, where the city sparkles with enchanting displays and runs through January 1. Venture to Nebraska City's Arbor Lodge State Historical Park, where Winter Fun Weekends continue to add joy to your weekends through January. In Lincoln, the 2025 Nebraska Deer and Game Expo will take place on January 17-19, while you have until January 12 to take in Christmas at Union Station in Omaha.

You can extend the New Year's festivities well into January in Vegas, as the month is brimming with spectacular events, including concert performances by Lionel Richie, Mariah Carey, Shania Twain, The Eagles and many more. Comedy lovers can laugh with the likes of Nate Bargatze and Chelsea Handler. Cap off the month in Elko as the famed National Cowboy Poetry Gathering kicks off its 40th edition on January 27 (runs through February 1), promising a captivating time celebrating of Western culture through the art of poetry.

Experience the enchantment of Disney on Ice as it glides into Manchester on January 9 (runs through January 12), promising a magical experience for kids of all ages. Prepare for awe-inspiring performances and beloved characters brought to life on the ice. Cap off the month with the 24th Annual New Hampshire Sanctioned & Jackson Invitational Snow Sculpting Competition from January 31 - February 2. Witness sensational works of art crafted from snow, showcasing the skill and creativity of talented sculptors.

Start the month with an express journey to nostalgia-ville as North Haledon hosts the 66th Annual Model Train Show from January 4-5, offering a delightful experience for train enthusiasts of all ages. Meanwhile, the Bergen County Zoo's Let It Glow: A Holiday Lantern Spectacular will keep the nights bright and merry, casting a luminous glow through the night of January 12. Cap off the month with a roar as Newark welcomes some of the most famous monster trucks in the land at Monster Jam (January 24-26).

Kick off your year with a spot of culture at the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center in Albuquerque, where the Pueblo Gingerbread House Contest runs through January 5. While there, don't miss the chance to explore the much-loved Native American Youth Art Show, on display throughout the month. Later in the month, head to Santa Fe's Railyards area, where the Winter Brew 2025 beer festival (January 24) promises a frothy celebration of craft brews. That same day the Last Friday Art Walk takes place (January 24), which will offer a captivating stroll through the artistic wonders of The City Different.

After you’ve spent the first few hours of the new year celebrating the ball drop in Times Square, head to Coney Island to watch (or take part in!) the legendary Polar Bear Plunge, which will see revelers brace the cold Atlantic Ocean waters. Step into the rhythm of the 21st Annual Winter Jazzfest from January 9-15, where the Big Apple becomes a jazz lover's paradise with a diverse lineup of performances. Last but not least, journey to the scenic Hudson Valley, where the Mohonk Mountain House hosts the Jazz on the Mountain Music Festival (January 10-13), which will once again present a beautiful blend of jazz and scenic backdrops. Last but not least, the Big Apple will be the setting for the Under the Radar Festival (January 4-19), which will once again shine a light on sensational experimental theater. 

Extend the festive vibes at the iconic Biltmore House, where the enchanting Christmas at Biltmore event continues through January 5. In Elizabeth City, the warmth of the Hot Cocoa Crawl—a delightful journey through the city's famed hot cocoa—sweetens the season through January 5. Head to Charlotte for Martin Luther King, Jr. Day on January 20, where the renowned Harvey B. Gantt Center pays tribute with a host of events and programming that will commemorate the civil rights leader's legacy. Wrap up the month with a trip to the 27th Annual Blowing Rock WinterFest (think ice carving, polar dunks, tomahawk throwing and a chili cooking contest) on January 23-26.

Fargo welcomes back its Frostival event on January 31, a celebration that extends its frosty fun through February 8, offering an array of exciting events along the way (think chili cook-offs, cardboard sled races, a horseshoe tournament, and s'mores by bonfires). Later in the month, journey to Grand Forks for the Happy Harry's Pork & Brew bacon and craft beer festival, which will see the entire city bubbling over during the weekend of January 31 - February 1 (main event on February 1). Lastly, Devil's Lake hosts the 41st Annual DLVFD Ice Fishing Tournament on January 23.

In Columbus, let the Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens dazzle your senses with Conservatory Aglow, an enchanting event featuring thousands of twinkling lights, gingerbread houses, and wintry foliage, running through January 5. In Cincinnati, lace up your skates and glide onto the Ice Rink at Summit Park, a beloved winter attraction that will also twirl its magic through January 5. Take a trip to Hocking Hills State Park for the 60th Annual Hocking Hills Winter Hike on January 18, where you'll be able to join fellow hikers and explore the winter beauty of the park. Then, cap off your January in Cleveland, tickling your taste buds at Cleveland Pierogi Week, a celebration of the city's renowned Polish dumplings that kicks off on January 27.

Downtown in December, Oklahoma City's premier winter festival will extend its brand of enchantment into the new year as the Devon Ice Rink will stay open for skaters until February 2. In Tulsa, Winterfest continues to captivate audiences with seasonal delights through January 6, while in Arcadia, the Round Barn Rendezvous (January 12) will once again fill the historic Route 66 landmark with live acoustic music and plenty of nostalgic vibes.

Portland takes center stage in January with two phenomenal music festivals that will have you tapping your toes: the Portland Old Time Music Gathering from January 16-19 and the Portland Folk Festival from January 17-18. In Bend, the annual Tour of Meissner Nordic ski event will take place on January 19, once again featuring skiers taking to the picturesque Virginia Meissner trail system against the backdrop of a wintry landscape.

The Keystone State keeps sizzling long after the New Year's Eve fireworks fade with the Mummers Parade in Philadelphia on New Year's Day and the Somerset Fire & Ice Festival from January 17-19. This latter event turns up the heat on entertainment, featuring dazzling ice sculptures, spectacular fireworks, and a feast of fantastic food and drinks that will warm you up during the "dog days" of winter. In Pittsburgh, culinary delights take center stage during Winter Restaurant Week (January 13-19) and you can ice skate on The UPMC Rink at PPG Place all month long. Last but not least, Philadelphia holds its Center City Restaurant Week on January 19 - February 1.

Start 2025 with a splash at Newport's Easton's Beach on New Year's Day at the 21st Annual Polar Bear Plunge, where you can witness (or join in on) invigorating ocean-swimming tradition at noon. In Providence, taste buds will go on a culinary adventure during Restaurant Week (January 26 - February 8), an event that sees some of the city's finest venues offer special menus. Finally, the Norman Bird Sanctuary in Newport will feature free nature walks each Wednesday this January.

Charleston welcomes the new year with the timeless Emancipation Proclamation Parade on New Year's Day, a cherished tradition dating back to the 1860s. Experience the flavors of the Palmetto State during Restaurant Week South Carolina, spanning the entire state from January 9-19. Then, head to Myrtle Beach for the 41st Annual National Shag Dance Championships' preliminaries on January 24-25, an event that showcases the state's signature dance.

Bask in the enchanting glow of Sioux Falls' Winter Wonderland as it paints the city's iconic cascades with a special seasonal light display until January 5. Then, join the winter revelry at the 37th Annual Frosty Frolics in Sioux Falls from January 4-5, a family-friendly extravaganza that celebrates the joys of embracing the outdoors in winter. Finally, make your way to the Black Hills for the adrenaline-pumping action of the Pro Snocross races (January 24-25), where you can witness top-tier athletes showcasing their skills in this thrilling snowmobile competition.

For an authentic Nashville experience, catch The Opry at The Ryam: Opry 100 every Friday and Saturday throughout the month. Meanwhile, in Memphis, the 2025 Elvis Birthday Celebration unfolds from January 8-11, offering a unique opportunity to honor the King of Rock 'n' Roll. Also this month in Memphis, groove to the rhythm of the International Blues Challenge (January 7-11), which will showcase top blues talent on Beale Street.

Austin's renowned Red River Cultural District sets the stage for the much-anticipated Free Week, a legendary free concert series running from January 3-4,  where you can immerse yourself in the city's eclectic music scene without breaking the bank. Then head to Fort Worth, where the legendary Fort Worth Stock Show and Rodeo commences on January 17, promising a thrilling blend of Western heritage and rodeo excitement. On January 18, blues lovers won't want to miss the Luckenbach Blues Festival, a celebration of soulful tunes set against the backdrop of historic Luckenbach.

Park City will once again transform into a mountain film mecca during the Sundance Film Festival (January 23 - February 2), an event that will shine a light on the best independent film in the world. Beyond the silver screen, Utah hosts two more fantastic January events. The skies over Bluff come alive at the Bluff Balloon Festival from January 17-19, where colorful hot air balloons paint the sky, creating a mesmerizing display and lifelong memories for all those in attendance. For those seeking a chilly thrill, The Millsite On Ice Fishing Tournament on January 10-11 offers the perfect opportunity to test your ice-fishing skills.

Celebrate Twelfth Night in style in Cabot Village, where they wrap up the festive season with hot cocoa, live music, storytelling and a paper lantern parade (January 3-4). Stowe will reach new heights of winter frivolity during its annual Winter Carnival (January 22-26), transforming the resort town into a festive haven. The streets will come alive with enchanting ice sculptures, lively "snow volleyball" games, stargazing events and a plethora of warming bites and beverages. Also in Stowe, the Winter Rendezvous Pride Festival will grace the slopes of the town from January 22-26.

Virginia's enchanting Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden extends the holiday magic with the GardenFest of Lights illuminations, continuing to sparkle until January 5.  In Virginia Beach, culinary delights await during Restaurant Week from January 20-26, offering a perfect opportunity to savor the city's diverse dining scene. Cap off your month in Bristol with the Farm and Fun Time feat. Dan Tyminski, Zach Russell at the Birthplace of Country Music Museum. This immersive radio show/musical experience echoes the region's rich cultural heritage (January 30) and will be a good time for all.

Tacoma will play host Zoolights through January 5 and the always-fun Onsie Bar Crawl on January 18, while Seattle's Woodland Park Zoo extends the luminous festivities with its Wild Lanterns event, keeping the bulbs glowing until January 19. Immerse yourself in the enchanting glow of life-size lanterns, each intricately crafted to resemble some of the most captivating members of the animal kingdom. In Spokane, embrace the winter magic by gliding across the Numerica Skate Ribbon all month long.

In Clarksburg, the That 70s Murder Mystery Dinner Theater will take place on January 12 while state capital Charleston is the spot to be for the PBR Charleston bull riding event on January 17-18. Then, end your month back in Clarksburg watching a performance by Thunderbeard: a tribute to ZZ Top.

The Kickapoo Valley will come alive with frosty magic at its 24th Annual Winter Festival on January 11, an event that sees visitors enjoying skiing, dog sledding, ice cave hikes, chili contests and photo-worthy snow sculptures. Eagle River takes the excitement up a notch with its annual World Championship Classic Vintage Snowmobile Races from January 9-12, where a whole host of prizes are available to the daring entrants. Meanwhile, Elkhart Lake embraces the season at its Schnee Days Winter Festival (January 24-26), which will feature a chili cook-off competition, a spirit-sipping stroll, invigorating snowshoeing adventures, live music and a myriad of other fun things to do.

Head to Jackson for the return of the Grand Teton Music Festival, which will treat music lovers to to two performances: “Met Opera in HD: Offenbach’s Les Contes d’Hoffmann” (January 19) and “Verona Quartet: Stomp at Center for the Arts” (January 26). Elsewhere, the Pinedale Stampede Nordic Ski Race also takes place on January 18, inviting participants to glide through the snowy Wyoming landscapes in a thrilling display of skill and speed.