While the holiday season might be in the past and winter is in full swing, there are still a lot of great things to do in New York in January.
Whether you want to enjoy the beauty of a New York winter, taste delicious food, or enjoy some great cultural activities, there’s no excuse to go into hibernation.
After searching through hundreds of events throughout the state, here are 7 of the best for those looking for something fun to do in January.
(Article updated December 12, 2022, for events in January 2023.)
Lights on the Lake in Syracuse – Through January 13
Not ready for the holiday season to be over? If so, you’re in luck as Lights on the Lake in Syracuse is open through January 13.
This fantastic drive-through Christmas light display features a two-mile-long display that features hundreds of fun and festive scenes along the shores of Onondaga Lake.
Find out more information and get tickets on the event’s website.
Winter JazzFest in New York City – January 12-18
New York City’s Winter JazzFest will be returning this January, and if you love jazz music, this is an event that you won’t want to miss.
With hundreds of different musicians, this festival will have way more music than you could possibly listen to in a week. However, you can certainly try to check out as many as you can amidst the event’s many great venues.
Find out more on the event’s website.
Long Lake Winter Carnival in Long Lake – January 14
Nestled in the Adirondack Mountains, the town of Long Lake welcomes you for a full day of winter fun during its annual winter carnival.
The carnival features some of Long Lake’s most unique snowy activities including cardboard sled racing and frying pan tossing. This family-friendly event will also offer activities for the kids.
The carnival will conclude with a fireworks display at 6:00 pm.
For more information on this event, visit the carnival’s website.
Buffalo Wine Festival – January 14
Wine lovers won’t want to miss the fabulous Buffalo Wine Festival being held at the Buffalo Niagara Convention Center on Saturday, January 14.
More than 20 wineries, cideries, and meaderies will be on hand offering samples of their best offerings, and you are sure to find a new favorite. There will also be vendors, entertainment, food, and more.
For more information and tickets, visit the event’s website.
NYC Broadway Week in New York City – January 17-February 12
Taking place just twice a year, the NYC Broadway Week is a chance for theater & musical lovers to experience some of the best shows on Broadway at a discounted rate. During the event, you can purchase one ticket to any participating show and get one free. Tickets for NYC Broadway Week shows go on sale on January 10.
For up-to-date information on this event and for a list of participating Broadway shows, click here.
Salmon River Winter Festival in Pulaski – January 27-29
If you are looking for a full weekend of family winter fun, then make plans to attend this year’s Salmon River Winter Festival located in Pulaski in Oswego County.
Show off your snowman-building skills by entering their snowman contest and do a little taste testing at the chili and wing competitions. The festival also features snow sculptures and children’s activities.
For more information on this event, click here.
While in the area, don’t miss the short walk to Salmon River Falls.
Go Skiing Throughout New York
Did you know that there are nearly four dozen ski areas spread throughout New York State?
Other than in New York City and Long Island, there are ski areas in every region of the state, and January is a great time to head out and enjoy skiing, snowboarding, snow tubing, and more fun activities at these resorts.
Find out more information about New York ski areas here.
Looking for more events in New York? Check out our picks for the best things to do in New York in December and things to do in New York in February.
Do you have a favorite thing to do in New York in January that isn’t on this list? Let us know in the comments below.
