The Ultimate 2024 Guide of January Michigan Events, Festivals + Best Things to Do in Michigan This Weekend With Kids
January Michigan Events - Things to do in Michigan in Winter + DATES | By: Sherry Trautman | Travel-Mi.com | Updated: January 1, 2024
The ULTIMATE SOURCE of 2024 Michigan events and fun things to do in Michigan in January!
As life-long Michiganders and avid travelers, Chris and Sherry recommend these places to visit in Michigan and fun things to do in Michigan in Winter!
Destinations: Detroit, Traverse City, Frankenmuth, Ann Arbor, Grand Rapids, Kalamazoo, Petoskey, Charlevoix, Houghton Lake, Midland, South Haven, St. Joseph, Upper Peninsula and more!
Plan your January Michigan trip or vacation around our inspiring festivals and events! It's easy to plan Michigan weekend getaways, mini vacations in Michigan, romantic getaways this winter with our trip ideas below!
What are the best things to do for January Michigan Events this winter?
From romantic winter getaways to family friendly events, we have tons of ideas including: Sleigh Rides, Ice Festivals, Polar Bear Plunges, Beer Festivals, Boat Shows, Bar Crawls, Ice Carving Shows, RV Shows, Wine and Cheese Tasting, Folk Festivals, Detroit Sporting Events, and FUN Galore! So many fun, affordable Michigan events you won't be bored this winter!
January Michigan Events - Tip Up Town USA
Yeah, I get it, it's winter. It's cold. But so what? Explore the many festivals in Michigan this weekend and see what's happening in Michigan today!! There are so many things to do in Michigan all winter long.
January Michigan Frequently Asked Questions:
Are there events in Michigan this weekend near me? See our updated Michigan event guide below! There are so many fun things to do in Michigan for couples and families across the state. We have popular events in southwest Michigan and west Michigan.
The Ultimate January Michigan Events 2024 - Let's Travel Michigan in Winter!
Fun Michigan events, festivals, activities, day trips, and things to do in Michigan this weekend. You will never be at a loss for what to do in Michigan! Plus we have ideas of things to do in Michigan with kids and romantic winter getaway for couples!
2024 Light Up Beacon Park | Detroit Winter Destination Event
When: Ongoing until January 16, 2024
Where: Beacon Park, 1901 Grand River Ave, Detroit, MI 48226
Cost: This event is FREE and open to the public.
Come to Beacon Park in Detroit this January Michigan to experience “Northern Lights” featuring larger-than-life light features! Your family will be wowed by a 15-foot Infinity Snow Globe, huge walkthrough snowflake and gleaming polar bears in this winter wonderland of joy. The park with twinkle with over 125,000 LED-efficient dazzling bulbs so bundle up and enjoy Detroit this chilly January! Fun Detroit winter activities fun for the whole family!
The Enchanted Trail | The Highlands in Harbor Springs, MI | Date Night Idea!
The Enchanted Trail at The Highlands in Harbor Springs, MI - Snowshoe or Walk
- When: January 1 - February 25, 2024. Select Dates and Times.
- Where: 600 Highland Drive, Harbor Springs, Michigan 49740
- Price: $19
Begins at 5:30 PM with time slots until 8:30 PM. This unique winter experience is a magical 1.5 mile roundtrip walk along a beautifully lit winter trail through the woods, where you’ll experience the soft warm glow of lights leading you to a rustic yurt where you can cozy up around a bonfire with s’mores and warm drinks! You can snowshoe or walk!
Quick Winter Getaway Idea: Book a romantic getaway in Harbor Springs located in Northern Michigan!
Grand Rapids Fulton Street Market | Food, Artisans
- When: Ongoing through April, Saturday's 10 am - 1 pm
- Where: Grand Rapids, MI Fulton Street Farmers Market. 1145 Fulton Street East, Grand Rapids, MI 49503
There will be an array of vendors selling food items, handmade goods, home decor, and so much more.
Best January Michigan Events, Festivals and Things to do in Michigan This WinterDetroit Zoo's Wild Lights | Christmas Lights Walk | Date Night Idea and Fun for Kids
The Detroit Zoo is even more magical during the winter with sparkly sights and Christmas entertainment! There is fun and activities for zoo goers of all ages. See millions of LED lights twinkling in the trees, buildings, lighted tunnel, and animal figures throughout the Zoo. Stroll through the Enchanted Trail, an immersive forest of lights and be wowed by the Polar Express 4D Theater!
Make it a Michigan winter day trip! Lots of activities and fun things to do in Grand Rapids!
Candlelight Hike at Mt. McSauba, Charlevoix
- Candlelight Hike at Mt. McSauba, Charlevoix.
- When: Every Friday evening, beginning at 5:00 PM! This event occurs December 31 through February 24.
- Where: 9223 Mount McSauba Road, Charlevoix, MI 49720.
Experience the magic of snowshoeing, hiking or cross-country skiing on candle-lit trails. You set your own pace on this self-guided journey. The hike will begin at the sledding hill parking lot. One of our favorite things to do in Michigan in winter!
January is Michigan Bridal Show and Expo Time!
Grab our list (and map) of the Top Michigan Bridal Shows and Expos! Gain inspiration and meet vendors for your cake, wedding dresses, wedding venues, decorations, DJ and more!
See the Famous Harlem Globetrotters! | 2024 World Tour | Wings Event Center | Kalamazoo | Incredible Basketball Game!
See the famous Harlem Globetrotters during their 2024 World Tour! Presented by Jersey Mikes (love them!).
When: Thursday, January 4, 2024
Where: Wings Event Center
I've always wanted to see the Harlem Globetrotters! Such talent and masters of live entertainment! So don't miss your chance to see the world-famous Harlem Globetrotters during their global tour as they take the court! Fun Michigan winter day trip to Kalamazoo!
2024 Bowers School Farm Winter Park | Ice Skating, Snow Tubing | Ultimate Michigan Winter Destination | Bloomfield Hills Michigan
Enjoy snow tubing, bonfires, climbing play area, comfort foods, entertainment, select animal experiences, and more! Bowers School Farm Winter Park is the ultimate Michigan winter destination! There is a general admission fee and additional costs for snow tubing and ice skating rentals. What a fun Michigan winter activity that's fun for the whole family!
2024 Light Up the Bluff | St Joseph | Southwest Michigan | See Glorious Lights to Brighten Our Winter!
Light Up the Bluff with over 1 million lights! What a great way to brighten our January Michigan by turning downtown St. Joseph into a winter wonderland of lights!
When: ongoing through February 15, 2024, 6pm – 9pm
Where: Lake Bluff Park, St. Joseph
2024 SISU Ski Fest | Premier Cross Country Ski Race | Ironwood, MI
- When: Saturday January 6, 2024
- Where: Ironwood Memorial Building. 213 S Marquette St
Ironwood, MI - What: 30K SISU Ski Race, 15K Heikki Lunta Ski Race, 5K Hauska Hiihto Fun Ski
Pasties, fruit and cookies were served last year in the Ironwood Memorial Building afterward so I'm hoping it happens this year too. Register early for the Sisu Ski Fest
What is Sisu? Sisu is a Finnish cultural idea consisting of strength and determination in the face of adversity.
50th Annual Detroit Swap Meet | Novi Michigan
- 50th Annual Detroit Swap Meet
- When: January 6-7, 2024. Saturday 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 pm. and Sunday from 8:00 am - 1:00 pm.
- Where: at the Suburban Collection Showplace, 46100 Grand River Ave, Novi, MI
- Tickets: $10 per person but ladies are free and so are kids under 12!
Over 65,000 sf of space for this incredible indoor swap meet!
Wilderness Sleigh Ride Events | The Treetops Resort | Gaylord, Michigan
Embrace the winter spirit, bundle up and go on a sleigh ride at Treetops!
- Wilderness Sleigh Ride, The Treetops Resort, Gaylord, Michigan
- When: January 6, 13, 20 and 27, 2024
- Where: The Treetops Resort, 3962 Wilkinson Rd, Gaylord, MI 49735
- Cost: $30 Adults and $30 Children Ages 12 and under
Reserve your space. Perfect romantic winter getaway or romantic horse drawn sleigh rides in Michigan! 50-55 minutes inclusive of travel, sleigh ride and firepit break
Murder Mystery Dinner Schedule | Henderson Castle | Kalamazoo
- Murder Mystery Dinner
- When: January 6, 2024, 6pm-9pm
- Where: Henderson Castle, 100 Monroe StreetKalamazoo, MI United States
- Price: $98 per person
Henderson Castle recommended dressing up in 1920s style clothing to add to the fun experience of the evening!
2024 Annual Tahquamenon Country Sled Dog Race | Upper Peninsula
- Annual Tahquamenon Country Sled Dog Race
- When: Saturday, January 6, 2024 and Sunday, January 7, 2024
- Where: Muskallonge Lake State Park, 29881 Co Rd 407, Newberry, MI 49868
The race attracts mushers from all over the United States, as well as Canada, South Africa and New Zealand. The race start and finish will take place at Muskallonge Lake State Park about 30 miles north of Newberry, MI.
By the way, the Tahquamenon Country Sled Dog Race announced it’s partnership with two other esteemed Upper Peninsula Races, The CopperDog 150 and The UP200, to create the SUPERIOR CROWN SLED DOG SERIES! See more information on our Michigan Dog Sledding Events page.
Holland Michigan Farmers Market | Holland Civic Center
When: Saturday, January 6, 2024, 9am – 1pm. Also on January 20, 2024
Where: Holland Farmers Market | Holland Civic Center.
Shop while staying cozy inside the Holland Civic Center! There will be over 25 farmers and vendors on the first and third Saturdays of the month from 9:00 am – 1:00 pm from January through April!
Pink & Fabulous: Father Daughter Dinner & Dance | Kalamazoo Event Center
When: Saturday, January 6, 2024, 6:30pm – 9:30pm
Where: Kalamazoo Event
Center
A (pre) Valentine Father & Daughter Dinner and Dance hosted by the Kalamazoo Junior Girls.
Doors open at 6pm. Admission: $25 per person.
SW Michigan Bridal Show | Wings Event Center, Kalamazoo | Planning a 2024 or 2025 Wedding?
When: January 7, 2024, 11:30am – 3:30pm
Where: Wings Event Center, 3600 Vanrick Dr, Kalamazoo, MI 49001
Calling all brides, bridal attendants and their families! Come on out to the Wings Event Center in Kalamazoo to meet with over 75 vendors! The Southwest Michigan Wedding and Party Planning Expo is the largest event in this region of Michigan. This wedding show is designed to bring together as resources to plan your wedding day, party or other special event.
2024 North American International Auto Show in Detroit
2024 North American International Auto Show in Detroit
When: January 10-20, 2025
Where: Detroit’s Huntington Place
See the Detroit Auto Show details.
Ultimate Fishing Show! Michigan's Largest Fishing Show!
Michigan’s largest pure-fishing show! The Suburban Collection Showplace will be filled with hundreds of vendors with fishing tackle and so much more! Did you know there are more anglers within a one-hour drive of Detroit than any other market in the U.S.?
When: January 11-January 14, 2024
Where: Suburban Collection Showplace, 46100 Grand River
Novi, MI 48347
- Thursday, January 11, 2024, 1:00 pm - 8:00 pm
- Friday, January 12, 2024, 12:00 pm - 8:00 pm
- Saturday, January 13, 2024, 10:00 am -8:00 pm
- Sunday, January 14, 2024, 10:00 am - 5:00 pm
Ticket Prices: Adults: $12 and Children (6-14): $5
Come check out tons of fishing boats and engines. You can also discover operators of outfitters, lodges, resorts, charters and guides. Book a trip this year! Michigan is a fantastic state for weekend fishing trip getaways!
2024 World of Winter Festival | Downtown Grand Rapids | Largest Winter Festival in the United States! | Art Event
World of Winter is the largest winter festival in the Midwest! Experience Grand Rapids during the cold-weather season during its annual World of Winter Festival! See art, performances, play games and enjoy the downtown area. Perfect family adventure or romantic Valentine’s Day stroll. And it's FREE
See our World Of Winter Map and Event Schedule!
2024 Kalamazoo Beer (Craft Beverage) Week
This exciting week long series features tastings, dinners and interactive events. The cool thing is, you will get a chance to meet many of the brewers, distillers, or winemakers to learn what it takes to develop the brews we love. We have a blast at this January Michigan event as it is an event near me! Plus it's been going on 14 years so they know a thing or two!
Hunter Ice Festival | Downtown Niles, MI | Ice Sculptures | Southwest Michigan
- Hunter Ice Festival
- When: January 12-13-14, 2024
- Where: Downtown Niles, MI.
The festival is a fantastic family-friendly event featuring 150 ice sculptures located all over the downtown area. You can even watch ice carvers work as they create their ice masterpieces on-site.
Why is it called the Hunter Ice Festival? The festival is dedicated to the history of Niles' Hunter Brothers Ice and Ice Cream Company, of whom concocted incredible ice cream at the turn of the century. They also carved ice blocks out of Barron Lake and shipped it all over the area.
Annual Grand Rapids Bridal Show 2024 | Schedule | Devos Place Event
Annual Grand Rapids Bridal Show 2024 in southwest Michigan. Home of the largest West Michigan fashion show. Are you a bride and planning your wedding? You will love this bridal event this January!
- When: January 12 and 13, 2024. Hours: Friday: 5 pm-9 pm and Saturday: 11 am-5 pm.
- Where: DeVos Place, Grand Rapids!
Fashion Shows Schedule - Friday 7:30pm and Saturday 1 pm & 3 pm
Brides get in for free, must register in advance. Friends and family members can buy tickets at the door for $10.
More than 100 vendors will be live at the show and will feature the largest West Michigan fashion show by America's Bride and Bunny Tuxedos.
Ask questions from wedding experts, learn about gorgeous event sites, taste delicious samples, and gather lots of inspiration for your upcoming wedding! Awesome bridal expo in Michigan 2024.
Craft Show | Beat the Winter Blues! | Kalamazoo Event Center
Craft Show-Beat the winter blues!
When: January 13, 2024, 9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. in the Main Expo
Where: Kalamazoo Event Center, 3600 Vanrick Dr, Kalamazoo, MI 49001
Shop over 120 booths of exciting crafters, local artists, and vendors. Admission is free.
Frosty Freestyle and Krazy Klassic | Southeast Michigan's Premier Cross Country Ski Races
When: January 13-14, 2024
Where: Huron Meadows Metropark, 8765 Hammel Rd, Brighton, MI
Southeast Michigan's premier cross country ski races. See or participate in two incredible days of racing! Worried about snow? No worries! Huron Meadows’ three snow guns guarantee snow coverage over the 2.5km-long Buck’s Run Trail.
So be sure to register for the Frosty Freestyle and Krazy Klassic early as you MUST register on-line and no same day registration.
Maximum number of racers:
- 225 for the Frosty Freestyle 15K
- 65 for the Frosty Freestyle 5K
- 150 for the Krazy Klassic 12K
- 55 for the Krazy Klassic 5K
Ice in the Zoo | Downtown Kalamazoo
Ice in the Zoo | Downtown Kalamazoo
When: Saturday, January 13, 2024, 12:00pm - 4:00pm
Where: Kalamazoo Mall, 230 N Rose St, Kalamazoo, MI 49007
Come on out for a fun family friendly day in Downtown Kalamazoo! Enjoy frosty winter festivities such as breathtaking ice sculptures, live ice carving demonstrations, and a scenic Kalamazoo Michigan winter wonderland in Central Commons.
Experience the excitement of winter sports demonstrations, see a special guest appearance from a beloved icy friend, and enjoy husky visits. This January Michigan event will have cheerful music, warming stations, creamy hot cocoa, and much more to delight your senses and wonderment! Fun for the whole family!
Pure Michigan January Activity | Try Dog Sledding!
What is there to do in Michigan in January?
It's time to try something new this winter! Michigan Dog Sledding and Races: Where to Experience in Upper and Lower Peninsula! (Top Winter Things To Do!)
More Things to do in Michigan in January!
Winterfest at Pier Park | Winter Festival with Ice Carving | Grosse Pointe Farms, Michigan | Metro Detroit
- Winterfest at Pier Park, Grosse Pointe Farms, Michigan
- When: Saturday, January 13, 2024, 12:00-4:00pm
- Where: Grosse Pointe Farms Pier Park, 350 Lake Shore Rd, Grosse Pointe Farms, MI 48236
Petting farm, ice carving demonstrations, ice skating, food trucks, putt putt golf, live entertainment and more. Fun things to do in Metro Detroit this wintertime.
Princess Tea Party | Henderson Castle | Kalamazoo, MI
Princess Tea Party at the Henderson Castle! Be a princess for the day!
- When: Sunday, January 14, 2024, 1:30-3:00 pm
- Where: Henderson Castle, 100 Monroe Street, Kalamazoo, MI
- Tickets: $48.99
Prince Alexander Henderson cordially invites you to a Royal Tea Party! Join him as a lovely princess for a tea party, complete with sweets and fun activities! Take a guided princess tour of the castle with an elegant ballroom dance!
Kalamazoo Reptile & Exotic Pet Expo
- Kalamazoo Reptile & Exotic Pet Expo
- When: January 14, 2024, 10:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.
- Where: Expo South, 2900 Lake St, Kalamazoo, MI 49048
Visit the Henry Ford | Mandela: The Official Exhibition | Dearborn Michigan | Southeast MI
- Visit the Henry Ford!
- When: Ongoing exhibit until January 15, 2024
- Where: The Henry Ford, 20900 Oakwood Boulevard, Dearborn, MI 48124
"Mandela: The Official Exhibition." An immersive and interactive experience showing previously unseen film and photos. See a display of over 150 historical artifacts and personal effects on loan from the Mandela family, museums and archives worldwide. A must-see exhibit within the Henry Ford.
Broadway GR Presents Disney's Aladdin | DeVos Performance Hall | Grand Rapids Broadway Show
- Broadway GR Presents Disney's Aladdin
- When: January 16-21, 2024
- Where: DeVos Performance Hall, Grand
Rapids, 8 pm
Disney's Aladdin is a Hit Broadway Musical that is part of the 2024 season coming to DeVos Performance Hall with 8 performances January 16 - 21, 2024.
Cheer at Sporting Events in Detroit This January 2024
This winter, watch and cheer during Detroit Lions, Detroit Pistons and Detroit Red Wings games! I'm always so excited for the Detroit Red Wings games to start as it's a chance to get out of the house and have some fun during January, February and March!
With Michigan hockey, football, and basketball in full swing, you might loose your voice from cheering (or shouting?) so much during all these exciting Michigan sporting events this month!
No matter the outcome, let's get out and support our local sports teams! Plus, you can be inside during Michigan's freezing winters! So many fun things to do in Michigan this winter!
Detroit Red Wings - Hockey Games
Location: Little Caesars Arena, Detroit
Here's the official calendar for the Detroit Red Wings including ticket information, stats, rosters, and more. The Detroit Red Wings is my favorite Michigan sports team as their games are so fun and engaging!
Detroit Lions - Football Games
Location: Ford Field (indoor stadium) is located in Downtown Detroit, Michigan and is the home of the Detroit Lions.
Grab the Detroit Lions schedule and book a Michigan weekend getaway in Detroit! Grab our Ultimate Detroit Guide!
Detroit Pistons - Basketball Games
Location: Little Caesars Arena, Detroit
Get ready to cheer on the Detroit Pistons all winter long during basketball games at Little Caesars Arena, located in Midtown Detroit. Check prices, buy your tickets and get the Pistons schedule.
The Detroit Pistons compete in the National Basketball Association as a member of the Central Division of the Eastern Conference. Their NBA games are full of energy and is fantastic entertainment during Michigan's long cold winters!
2024 Grand Rapids Camper, Travel & RV Show
- Grand Rapids Camper, Travel & RV Show,
- When: January 18 - 21, 2024, Times Vary
- Where: DeVos Place
- Tickets: All tickets are sold online. Adults: $12.00, Children (6-14): $5.00 and Multi-Day Adult: $18.00
Are you in the market for a new camper for your family to embark on new Michigan adventures? If so, come on out to the Grand Rapids Camper, Travel & RV Show! There will be lots of West Michigan RV dealers representing more than 100 RV lines. You can also find RV accessories, campgrounds and travel destinations that your family will love! Plus, the DeVos Place is the perfect venue with it's 200,000+ square feet of space!
Hence, the Grand Rapids Camper, Travel & RV Show is the biggest RV Show in the state!
Here Are the Top Michigan Winter Festivals!
26th Annual RV Show | Michigan State University Pavilion | Lansing Michigan
- RV Show!
- When: January 18, 2024 - January 21, 2024
- Where: Michigan State University Pavilion for Agriculture and Livestock Education, 4301 Farm Ln, Lansing, MI
Over 25 RV Brands from Lightweight to Luxury! It's a great place to find an RV for your Michigan camping trips! You'll find incredible state parks and KOA campgrounds all across the Mitten state.
Murder Mystery Dinner Event | Henderson Castle | Kalamazoo
- Murder Mystery Dinner
- When: January 19, 2024, 6pm-9pm
- Where: Henderson Castle, 100 Monroe StreetKalamazoo, MI United States
- Price: $98 per person
Henderson Castle recommended dressing up in 1920s style clothing to add to the fun experience of the evening!
2024 Ishpeming Ski Club Ski Jumping Tournament | Ishpeming, MI | Upper Peninsula Ski Event
- 136th Annual Ishpeming Ski Club Ski Jumping Tournament
- When: January 19-21, 2024
- Where: UP Nordic Ski Complex, Cliffs Dr, Ishpeming, MI 49849
The Ishpeming Ski Club will be hosting the 136th Annual Ski Jumping Tournament. It's also called the Suicide Ski hill. This event is one stop on both the regional premier Five Hills Tournament and the U.S. Cup. Come watch as Ski jumpers throughout the United States will see how far they can fly with the best style.
Spectators can also enjoy tailgating, bonfires, food trucks, beer tent, fireworks and views of skiers on Suicide Hill. Super fun winter events in the Michigan's Upper Peninsula near Marquette!
2024 Rochester Frost Festival | Downtown Rochester, Michigan | Southeast Michigan
- 2024 Frost Festival (Appears to replace the annual Fire & Ice Festival)
- When: Friday, January 19, 2024 and Saturday, January 20, 2024
- Where: Downtown Rochester, Michigan
Downtown Rochester, Michigan is packed with family fun and festivities! Frost Fest is a FREE Winter Festival hosted by the Downtown Rochester DDA. The inaugural event will be held in the streets of Downtown Rochester. Great family friendly January Michigan event.
Novi Home and Garden Show - Suburban Collection Showplace
- Novi Home and Garden Show - Suburban Collection Showplace,
- When: January 19-21, 2024
- Where: 46100 Grand River Avenue, Novi, Michigan, January 27-29, 2023.
Learn new tips and tricks to remodel and design your home! Talk to local home improvement specialists and designers to see the latest trends. One of the best January things to do in Michigan this weekend.
Show Time Schedule:
- Friday, January 19: 1-8 p.m.
Saturday, January 20: 10 a.m.-8 p.m.
Sunday, January 21: 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
Suburban Collection Showplace
Bavarian Ski Festival | XC Ski Headquarters | Northern Michigan
When: Saturday, January 20, 2024
Where: XC Ski Headquarters, 9435 N Cut Road, Roscommon, MI 48653
Enjoy skiing on the HQ trails! Then, test your strength at Masskrugstemmen at 2:00pm.
What's Masskrugstemmenstein? It's a stein holding contests for men and women starting at 2:00 pm.
Pull together a team of three skiers and ski in unison atop their huge pair of “Team Skis” in the Team Ski Time Trials, beginning at 3:00pm.
Be sure to wear your German attire (we know you are giddy to break out your Lederhosen!) for a costume contest at 4:00pm. There will be yummy Bavarian fare such as soft pretzels, sausages, sauerkraut, and German beer. What a fun heritage event and tons of winter fun!
Holland Michigan Farmers Market | Holland Civic Center
When: Saturday, January 20, 2024, 9am – 1pm.
Where: Holland Farmers Market | Holland Civic Center.
Shop while staying cozy inside the Holland Civic Center! There will be over 25 farmers and vendors on the first and third Saturdays of the month from 9:00 am – 1:00 pm from January through April!
Chili Cook Off | Fenn Valley Vineyard, Fennville MI
Chili Cook Off
When: Saturday, January 20, 2024, 2pm – 5pm
Where: Fenn Valley Vineyard, 6130 122nd Ave, Fennville, MI 49408
KUDL Learn to Curl | Wings Event Center
Have you always wanted to learn how to curl? Wondered what curling is?
When: Saturday, January 20, 2024, 5-7pm (Please arrive 15 minutes prior to start time.)
Cost: $20 (a special KUDL rate)
Where: Wings Event Center, 3600 Vanrick Drive, Kalamazoo, MI - Door 11 (Down the stairs and turn right)
- Registration: Now open until January 13, 2024. This event will be capped at 40 participants so register early!
2024 Tecumseh's Annual Ice Sculpture Festival |
- Tecumseh's Annual Ice Sculpture Festival
- When: January 20 and 21, 2024
Where: Downtown Tecumseh
Tecumseh, MI.
Looking for a fun outdoor event for your family? The downtown area will have over 35 ice sculptures and life size balloon sculptures adorning the sidewalks during the event. Enjoy a fun Scavenger hunt with participating merchants! So many fun things to do in January!
Go Michigan Ice Skating...at These Top Rinks!
My friends, if there was ever a time to sneakily hold hands with your loved one, ice skating is it! So lace up those skates and find a Michigan Ice Skating Rink near you! Here are Ice Skating Rinks in Detroit.
Have You Experienced Michigan Sleigh Rides?
If you want something seriously cool to do this winter, go on a horse drawn sleigh ride! It's fun for all ages so it's a perfect winter family activity or a romantic winter getaway for couples!
Best Michigan Sleigh Rides - Where to Experience Horse Drawn Carriage Adventures in MI (Top Winter Things To Do!)
See a Crazy Michigan Polar Bear Plunge at Tip Up Town Festival | Houghton Lake, MI
The 2024 theme is "Do You Believe in Magic?" Bring your friends and family to enjoy the beverage tent, fishing contest, entertainment tent, carnival rides, petting zoo, antique snowmobiles, ice slide, vendors, snowmobile drag races and my personal favorite, the Polar Bear Plunge!
- Chris and I LOVED watching the Tip Up Town USA Polar Bear Plunge. People lined up in swim suits and warm robes until it was there time to jump into the icy water. Do you think you could do it?
Check the Tip Up Town website for times of events. The festival is held at the southern DNR boat launch, off of M-55 near the Pines theater and Pineview Golf Course. Free parking is available at the High School and library with free shuttle service to and from Tip Up Town. Are your brave enough to jump in the icy waters of Houghton Lake during the Polar Bear Plunge?
Get Cozy This Winter at Michigan Cat Cafes! Perfect January Michigan Activity!
You know, while it's cold outside, a fun thing to do is VISIT CAT CAFES! Many of the cat cafes have fun events like Yoga with Cats, Bingo (with Cats), Board Games...with cats. Why not spread some love and get even more in return!
Zehnder's Snowfest | Frankenmuth, MI | Ice Carving Competitions, Fireworks | Top Winter Michigan Event!
- Zehnders Snowfest in Frankenmuth, MI
- When: January 24-28, 2024
Where: Downtown Frankenmuth near Zehnder's restaurant
Bring the whole family to enjoy snow sculpting and ice carving competitions. There will be a warming tent, entertainment, children's area and fireworks.
Chris and I look forward Zehnder's Snowfest every year! Chris and I love to dine on Frankenmuth's famous chicken dinners, explore the town and check out the insane snow sculptures!
This is one of our favorite January Michigan events and things to do in Michigan! Super fun event for kids too or get crazy and make it a romantic winter getaway for couples.
2024 Winterfest | Grand Haven
Create and decorate a colorful cardboard sled, snow volleyball, bonfire bash, glow bowl, and world famous sled races! Park and take the shuttle. Most events are on Saturday!
Catch a FREE ride from downtown parking (Washington Street or Franklin Street) on the shuttle out to Mulligan’s Hollow for the events on Saturday. Just flag down the shuttle anywhere along the route!
2024 Chili Tour | St. Joseph Michigan | Great Couples Activity or Girls Night Out Event
- 2023 Chili Tour
- When: Friday, January 26, 2024, 5pm – 8pm
- Where: Downtown St. Joseph, Michigan, start at 301 State Street, St. Joseph, MI 49085
Participating locations or "Chili Stops" will play host where you can try their delicious chili recipes and shop along the way!
2024 Ann Arbor Folk Festival | The Ark
- Ann Arbor Folk Festival
- When: Friday, January 26, 2024 and Saturday, January 27, 2024
- Where: Hill Auditorium
The Ann Arbor Folk festival is the largest annual fundraiser for The Ark, Ann Arbor’s non-profit home for folk music. Enjoy two nights of music which includes a blend of well-known and up-and-coming artists. Get your tickets early!
Shadowfest Community Skating Party | Charlevoix MI
- Shadowfest Community Skating Party
- When: January 2024 tbd
Where: McSauba Ice Rink Charlevoix, Michigan
Charlevoix students are hosting an ice skating party with music, concessions, fun lights and lots of fresh air.
The 2024 Detroit Boat Show
- The Detroit Boat Show
- When: January 27, 2024 - February 4, 2024
- Where: Huntington Place (Formerly Cobo Hall), 1 Washington Blvd.
Detroit, MI 48226
The Detroit Boat Show is the premier boat show in Michigan featuring hundreds of new boats, motors and accessories to see and purchase. See fishing boats, ski boats, cruisers, pontoons, inflatables, personal watercraft, kayaks, and antique boats. One of the largest boat shows in Michigan! Awesome January Michigan event! There is a Fee.
SHOW HOURS
Adult French Cooking Educational Class | Henderson Castle | Kalamazoo Michigan
Adult French Cooking Educational Class
- When: January 27, 2024, 11:00am - 1:00pm
- Where: Henderson Castle, 100 Monroe Street, Kalamazoo, MI United States
- Price: $59.99 per person
Adult French cooking classes are awesome at the Henderson Castle! You will learn classic techniques for making a gourmet dish!
Heikinpäivä | Finnish-American Festival | Michigan's Upper Peninsula
- Heikinpäivä - A Mid-Winter Finnish-American Festival in Michigan's Copper Country!
- When: January 27, 2024.
Several events including a Finnish Costume Show, Nordic Film Series, Book Reading and Signings, workshops and more!
Winter Fest | Coldwater, MI | Family Friendly Winter Festival | January Michigan
- Winter Fest
- When: Saturday, January 27, 2024, 10 AM - 3 PM
- Where: Coldwater, Michigan
This family-friendly event will include cardboard sled races, a kid's craft, inflatables, live wood-carving, a pop-up ice skating pond, and sled dog demos.
Downtown Kalamazoo Chili Cookoff
- Downtown Kalamazoo Chili Cookoff
- When: Saturday, January 27, 2024. 11am - 2pm, Downtown Kalamazoo
- Where: Start at Chili Headquarters (Kalamazoo Valley Center for New Media,
100 E Michigan Ave, Kalamazoo, MI 49007) where you can get your Bingo Card.
Downtown Kalamazoo Chili Cook-Off. They will be bringing a spin on brisket chili to the event. You won’t want to miss it.
2024 Pure Ludington Brrrewfest | 9th Annual | Beer Festival in West Michigan
- Pure Ludington Brrrewfest
- When: January 27, 2024, 1 pm - 6pm
- Where: Legacy Plaza on north James Street in Ludington.
Come on out to Ludington’s premier winter event to taste of the best flavors of beers, wines, ciders and meads from all around Michigan. The event runs from 1-6 pm. Enjoy a heated tent, live music stage, and crafters from 20 Michigan breweries.
11th Annual Iron Fish Distillery Fat Chance Fat Tire Bike Race! | Northern Michigan | Crystal Mountain Ski Resort
When: January 27, 2024, All races start at 9 am.
Where: Crystal Mountain's Cross-Country Center
Fat Chance is such a fun fat tire biking race held in Northern Michigan. Come as a spectator or racer to Crystal Mountain's Cross-Country Center. There, you can enjoy a 360 degree viewing area for spectators. The exciting race is 90 minutes and is happening rain or shine, snow or dirt. So come on out!
2024 St. Joe Winter Beer Fest | St. Joseph, Southwest Michigan January Michigan Event
- 2024 St. Joe Winter Beer Fest
- When: Saturday, January 27, 2024 | 12:00pm - 4:00pm
- Where: Downtown St. Joseph, MI 49085
- Bundle up and venture outdoors for the annual St. Joe Winter Beer Fest! Craft beer novices and enthusiasts will enjoy sampling from local and regional Michigan breweries. Ages 21+ event.
Annual International 500 Snowmobile Race | Sault Ste. Marie | World’s Longest, Fastest, Toughest Oval Race Event
- When: January 28-February 3, 2024
- Where: Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan
- Join thousands of drivers, sled heads, and snowmobile enthusiasts for the professional racing excitement of the annual International 500 Snowmobile Race! The I-500 is the world’s longest, fastest, toughest, and most-exciting oval race event. Support Michigan Tourism, come on out for this Michigan event this weekend!
What is There to do in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan in the Winter?
Annual Tahquamenon Country Sled Dog Race
- Annual Tahquamenon Country Sled Dog Race, January 6 and 7, 2024. The race attracts mushers from all over the United States, as well as Canada, South Africa and New Zealand. The race start and finish will take place at Muskallonge Lake State Park about 30 miles north of Newberry, MI. By the way, The Tahquamenon Country Sled Dog Race announced it’s partnership with two other esteemed Upper Peninsula Races, The CopperDog 150 and The UP200, to create the SUPERIOR CROWN SLED DOG SERIES!
Michigan's Upper Peninsula is the perfect place to try:
We love supporting Michigan Tourism! Get outside as there are so many thing to do in Michigan in winter!
Preplanning
- If you wish to be in the Corvette or Cadillac car corral, hospitality or tailgating tickets for the Detroit Grand Prix, book them now. They will be sold out by end of February.
Author: Sherry Trautman
Author | Sherry Trautman is a seasoned business owner and a multifaceted content creator, deeply entrenched in the world of travel in Michigan. With her extensive background in writing, editing, photography, marketing, website design, web mastering, social media, and publishing, she is the driving force behind the acclaimed Michigan Travel site "Travel-mi.com." A lifelong Michigander...read more about Sherry Trautman
Ongoing Michigan Events
- Sleigh Rides with Treetops Resorts: December, January, February and March weather dependent. Fee. This is one of our favorite things to do in Michigan with kids! It's also perfect for a romantic winter getaway for couples!
- Traverse City Indoor Famers Market- The Village at Grand Traverse Commons, you can stay toasty while you shop at their Indoor Farmers Market in The Mercato corridor on Saturday mornings, from 10 am-2 pm. 830 Cottageview Drive, Traverse City, Michigan. November-April.
We hope you enjoy these January Michigan events and festivals. We hope you found lots of things to do in Michigan with your kids too.
We would love it if you shared some of your January Michigan ideas below!
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Best Things to do in Michigan in Winter! January Events by Travel-Mi.comDisclaimer: Please be sure to visit a particular event's website to verify dates, times, happenings and details. We make every possible effort to be verify these the event details but as we are human, mistakes can occur and event dates/times can change. If you see an error below, PLEASE let us know and we will correct it.
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Event Centers in Michigan
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