January in Salt Lake City is filled with winter celebrations, live performances, outdoor recreation, and cultural experiences. Below, you’ll find the top January 2026 events listed in order, each with everything you need to know to plan your month.
World of Illumination: Enchanted Safari
Through January 4 | Utah State Fairpark & Event Center
Gear up for a final chance to experience this immersive drive-through light show that transforms the fairpark into a glowing jungle adventure. Produced by World of Illumination, Enchanted Safari features dazzling animal displays—from peacocks and piranhas to reindeer and dinosaurs—ending at Santa’s Bazaar for a festive farewell to the holiday season.
ZooLights at Utah’s Hogle Zoo
Through January 4 | Utah’s Hogle Zoo
While most of the animals are tucked in for the winter, the zoo comes alive with brilliant animal- and nature-inspired light displays. ZooLights is a walk-through holiday experience perfect for families, couples, and anyone looking to soak up some lingering seasonal magic on select January nights.
Mysteries of the Ice Ages – A Special Exhibition (Last Chance)
Through January 4 | Natural History Museum of Utah
This is the final opportunity to explore an expansive exhibition that dives into 80,000 years of Earth’s icy history. Featuring more than 120 specimens, ancient tools, and immersive interactives, the exhibit highlights Ice Age animals, early human adaptation, and the powerful glaciers that shaped today’s landscapes.
2026 Revolution Run
January 1 | Utah Olympic Oval
Kick off the new year with a fitness challenge at the Utah Olympic Oval. The 2026 Revolution Run allows participants to run as many laps as possible within a set time or complete a 5K, 10K, half marathon, or full marathon—all within four hours—making it a motivating and energetic way to start 2026.
Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back in Concert
December 30 – January 3 | Maurice Abravanel Hall
Experience the iconic film like never before as the Utah Symphony performs John Williams’ legendary score live while the movie plays on the big screen. This cinematic concert brings Luke Skywalker’s journey and Darth Vader’s looming presence to life in an unforgettable way.
Monster Jam 2026
January 2–4 | Delta Center
Monster Jam roars into downtown Salt Lake City with massive trucks, gravity-defying stunts, and nonstop excitement. This high-energy, family-friendly event is packed with action and adrenaline across multiple days.
First Friday Concerts
January 2 | Viridian Event Center
Start the year with live music at this monthly concert series presented in partnership with the City of West Jordan and Excellence in the Community. Expect an energetic evening filled with performances and activities designed for music lovers of all ages.
Aquarium Lantern Festival
Through January 10 | Loveland Living Planet Aquarium
This outdoor lantern festival features glowing, larger-than-life animal and nature displays set on the Rio Tinto Kennecott Plaza. Tickets also include aquarium access, along with hot chocolate and light concessions available to keep visitors warm as they explore.
Disney’s Frozen The Broadway Musical
Through February 14 | Hale Centre Theatre
Journey to Arendelle with this Broadway adaptation of Disney’s beloved film. Featuring dazzling costumes, impressive staging, and iconic songs, Frozen delivers a magical theatrical experience for audiences of all ages.
Downtown Farmers Market: Winter Market
Ongoing | Saturdays, 10 AM–2 PM | 209 E 500 S
The Winter Market brings the beloved Downtown Farmers Market indoors, offering baked goods, produce, handmade gifts, and artisan products from more than 75 local vendors every Saturday throughout the season.
Skating at Gallivan Center
Through Early March | Downtown Salt Lake City
Glide across the outdoor ice rink in the heart of downtown, surrounded by colorful lights and winter ambiance. Open to the public with no reservations required, this seasonal rink is a classic winter activity.
Public Skating at the Utah Olympic Oval
Through January 31 | Utah Olympic Oval
Skate on the “Fastest Ice on Earth,” where countless Olympic records have been set. With skate rentals available in a wide range of sizes, this is a must-do winter experience for all skill levels.
Utah Watercolor Society Exhibit
January 9 – March 2 | Red Butte Garden
This exhibit highlights the beauty and versatility of watercolor art, showcasing works from talented artists across Utah. Visitors can explore a variety of styles and techniques in a serene garden setting.
SLC White Party: A Voyage Through Time
January 10 | Salt Lake Masonic Temple
This immersive annual fundraiser transforms the historic temple into a dreamlike celebration of music, art, and performance. Guests are encouraged to dress in white as they journey through a creative experience supporting the Utah Arts Alliance.
Broadway Rave
January 17 | Metro Music Hall
Musical theater fans can sing, dance, and celebrate their favorite show tunes at this Broadway-themed dance party. Costumes are encouraged, and surprise guest appearances make the night even more memorable.
Solitude Bumps Clinic
January 17–19 | Solitude Mountain Resort
Designed for intermediate and advanced skiers and snowboarders, these clinics focus on refining technique with guidance from professional instructors. Small group sessions ensure personalized feedback on the mountain.
Solitude Nordic Nights
January 24 | Solitude Mountain Resort
Explore Nordic and snowshoe trails illuminated by hundreds of torches and candles under the winter sky. Guests can warm up afterward with complimentary s’mores and hot chocolate by the fire pits.
Stardew Valley: Symphony of Seasons
January 27 | Eccles Theater
Fans of the beloved game can enjoy a live orchestral performance of its most memorable music, curated by creator ConcernedApe. Gameplay visuals and exclusive content accompany the concert for a truly immersive experience.
From festive light displays and live concerts to outdoor adventures and inspiring exhibits, January 2026 proves that winter in Salt Lake City is anything but slow. Whether you’re ringing in the new year, embracing the snowy season, or exploring the arts, there’s no shortage of memorable experiences to kick off the year.
