January 5: Winter Trails Day, Crystal Mountain, Thompsonville 

If you’ve ever wanted to try out snowshoeing or cross-country skiing, or wish to introduce your kids to either of those sports, then head to Crsyatl Mountain for a free two-hour pass to try one or both on your own. Rentals are available and trail head clinics will take place throughout the afternoon.

January 11: Plymouth International Ice Sculpture Festival, Plymouth

The Plymouth Ice Festival is a world-class event in beautiful downtown Plymouth that is exciting and fun for the whole family. The sculptures are viewable anytime of the day. Don’t miss the dueling chainsaws competition on Saturday at 7 p.m. as ice carvers have 15 minutes to create some of the most incredible carvings in the festival.

January 12: Sips & Soups, Leelanau Peninsula Wine Trail

Warm up from the inside and experience the magic of some of northern Michigan’s wineries glistening in the snow.  Soups and robust chilies are selectively paired with local reds and whites. Part of the ticket price benefits local food banks. DD tickets available for a discount. And bonus, you get a souvenir wine glass.

January 19: Lantern-Lit Snowshoe, Van Riper State Park, Champion

From 7-9 p.m. you can enjoy an enchanted evening of fun in the snow. The trail runs 1.25 miles and is lit by lanterns all along the way. Warm up next to a fire at the rustic Peshekee Cabin and enjoy snacks and warm beverages. A recreation passport is required.

January 23-27: Thunder Bay International Film Festival, Alpena

Every year, the Friends of Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary bring the world of cinema to Alpena! For five days in January, northeast Michigan is treated to some of the most impressive ocean and Great Lakes films from around the world. Film screenings are complemented by social events, educational activities, and opportunities to meet filmmakers.

January 24: Winterfest, Grand Haven

Winterfest is a full weekend of winter fun in Grand Haven, Michigan, during the last week of January.  There’s something to do regardless of age, both indoors and out. Some favorite events include the cardboard sled race and the ice cream eating contest. Kid’s Day takes place from 12-3pm on Saturday. And new for 2019, Freeze 4 All Snow Volleyball (get a team together) and the Winterfest Whiteout Fat Bik Race.

January 26: 5th Annual Pure Ludington Brrrewfest, Ludington

Get out of the house (or RV!) and go to Brrrewfest along the shores of Lake Michigan. There are more than 30 brewers offering tastes and unique flavors, as well as live music. Your ticket gets you six drink tokens and a commemorative glass.

 

Looking for more ideas? Visit our Event Calendar.