As January rolls around, towns are buzzing with outdoor activities and cozy gatherings that embrace the magic of winter Up North.Â
This is a MyNorth.com exclusive. Want more? View our print subscription and digital subscription options.
January 3 – 13 | Christmas on the Tibetan Yak Farm
Kiwidinok Tibetan Yak Petting Farm in Boyne City brings the holiday spirit to the countryside with this heartwarming event. Enjoy the warm glow of twinkling lights, get photos with the family, and interact with friendly Tibetan yaks, alpacas, goats, donkeys, and other animals. Reserve your spot here.
January 10 | Swiss Raclette Dinner
Join Black Star Farms at Bistro Polaris with Leelanau Cheese Company for a dinner celebrating a delicious Alpine tradition. Get tickets here.
Photo by Black Star Farms
January 10 | Lantern-Lit Hikes Along the Cadillac Heritage Trail
Enjoy a peaceful winter snowshoe through the Hertiage Nature Trail guided by lantern light. Weather dependent. 6-9 p.m.
January 11 | Wine about Winter
Leelanau Sands Casino & Lodge is hosting its annual tasting event with six food and wine pairings. 5-8 p.m. Get tickets here.
January 11 – March 1 | Mackinac Island Turtle Trek
Go on a peaceful lantern-lit snowshoe trek or cross-country ski through the island’s natural winter wonderland. The trail begins at Greany Grove with a bonfire and hot chocolate. It’ll be groomed, track set, and about two miles long. Be sure to check ferry and plane schedules.
January 11 | Steppin’ In It & Zak Bunce
Have some fun at The Alluvion with this folk and blues band that’s been packing dance floors for 20 years. Hosted by Gopherwood Concerts at the Cadillac Elks Lodge. Get tickets here.
January 11 | The Anthony Stanco Quintet
This isn’t just a concert, it’s a live music recording of Anthony Stanco’s new album and you’re invited. Get tickets here.
January 12 | Euchre Tournament
Ready for a night of good ole Michigan fun? Head to Lake Street Pub in Boyne City for a Euchre tournament with cash prizes for the top three winners. 4-9 p.m. Get tickets here.
Photo by Otsego Resort
January 18 | Winter Winter Walk
What’s winter in Gaylord without a snowy hike? This nature walk at Otsego Resort features wine stations, bonfires and snacks a long the way. It’s a popular event, so register now. Get tickets here.
January 18 | Tequila Class at The Cooks’ House
It might be winter, but that won’t stop us from dreaming about summer vacation. This cocktail class will have you all prepped for the warmer days (way) ahead or for Saturday nights with friends. Get tickets here.
January 25 | Comedy Night
Get ready for a night of laughter featuring two of the most entertaining comedians in the industry: Andy Beningo and Kate Brindle. Get tickets here.
January 25 | Pure Ludington BRRRewfest
Get your fill on local beer, wine, cider and mead at this beloved winter festival. 1-6 p.m. in downtown Ludington.
Photo by Pure Ludington
January 25 | Bigfoot Snowshoe Race
The Bigfoot Snowshoe Race at Timber Ridge features a snowy jaunt through the woods with plenty of logs to jump and branches to duck. 9 a.m. to noon.
January 25 | Trillium Groove
The Music House Museum welcomes back this Northern Michigan trio for another stellar performance. Get tickets here.
January 25 | Heikinpäivä festival
Following a snowy November and December in Michigan’s Keweenaw Peninsula, locals are embracing the season with a mid-winter festival that’s steeped in Finnish heritage and folklore. The annual Heikinpäivä festival in Hancock—named for Heikki, a Finnish nickname for Henry—features a full day of festivities like a traditional vipukelkka (Finnish whipsled), wife-carrying contests, outdoor games, markets and more. Bring warm clothes and your winter spirit.Â
Photo by Kayleigh White via Visit Keweenaw
January 29 | Harlem Quartet
Don’t miss this talented New York-based string quartet with a fresh take on classical music. 7-9 p.m. at City Opera House.
January 31 | Mark Lavengood & Friends
Making his Alluvion debut with his band, Mark Lavengood will be joined by friends, Justin Advek on bass, Dutcher Snedeker on keys, and Loren Kranz on drums. Get tickets here.