18 Southern Events & Happenings: January 2026

It may still be chilly outside, but 2026 is heating up with Southern events you don’t want to miss. From savoring classic Southern flavors to exploring art, music, and outdoor adventures, January across the South offers something for everyone. Here’s to a fresh start, new experiences, and kicking off the year in style!

January 1, 2026: First Day Hikes — Nationwide

Start 2026 with a scenic winter walk at a nearby state park. As part of a nationwide initiative to encourage people to get outdoors, these free hikes are open to all ages and skill levels, offering a refreshing way to start the new year. To find a park and trail near you, visit stateparks.org.

January 3, 2026: 47th Annual Hill & Dale 8-Miler — Millington, TN

The Hill and Dale 8-Miler, presented by the Memphis Runners Track Club, guides participants along roads and paved paths through Meeman-Shelby Forest State Park. Open to runners of all levels, it’s a longstanding local favorite that blends tradition, community, and a rewarding challenge. runsignup.com

January 3 & 4, 2026: The International Gem & Jewelry Show — Dallas, TX

This annual event brings one of America’s longest‑running direct‑to‑consumer gem and jewelry marketplaces to Fair Park. Shoppers can browse a wide selection of fine jewelry, gemstones, beads, pearls, watches, vintage pieces, and more from designers, wholesalers, and manufacturers. Tickets are discounted to $6 if purchased online ($8 in-person). intergem.com

January 7 – 11, 2026: Elvis Birthday Celebration — Memphis, TN

The 2026 Elvis Birthday Celebration at Graceland is a multi‑day tribute honoring the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll with concerts, conversations, and special events. Attendees can also enjoy live music and unique fan experiences — including an exclusive sneak-peek screening of Baz Luhrmann’s EPiC: Elvis Presley in Concert. Visit graceland.com for ticketing options.

January 8 – 18, 2026: Restaurant Week South Carolina — Statewide

If your taste buds made a New Year’s resolution, Restaurant Week South Carolina is here to help. This culinary celebration invites diners to savor specially priced menus at participating restaurants across the state, showcasing local flavors, chef creativity, and a range of regional dishes. restaurantweeksouthcarolina.com

January 9 & 10, 2026: Free Week — Austin, TX

Austin’s beloved Free Week returns, keeping the city’s music scene alive each January with an admission-free festival featuring hundreds of local bands and performances across downtown venues. Founded in 2003 at Emo’s, the event has grown into a citywide celebration that supports musicians, venue staff, and Austin’s music economy. redriverculturaldistrict.org

January 9 – 11, 2026: Art Deco Weekend — Miami, FL

Art Deco Weekend celebrates the iconic Miami Beach Art Deco District, boasting more than four decades of design, culture, and history. This free community event, celebrating the Art Deco Centennial this year, features architectural tours, vintage car shows, jazz and blues performances, outdoor markets, and evening entertainment. artdecoweekend.org

January 9 – 11, 2026: 36th Annual Antiques & Garden Show of Nashville — Nashville, TN

Nashville’s iconic Antiques & Garden Show is a must-see for antiques, vintage decor, and garden inspiration. This year’s keynote, Living Legacy: The Classic American Style of Ralph Lauren, features David Lauren and Lauren Bush Lauren in conversation, moderated by Alfredo Paredes, offering an exclusive glimpse into the enduring style and influence of the Ralph Lauren brand. Standard tickets are $35. antiquesandgardenshow.com

January 10, 2026: Frostbite 5K Run/Walk — Louisville, KY

The Frostbite 5K is the second (and most popular!) race in Louisville’s Polar Bear Grand Prix series. Runners start at Cherokee Park’s Rugby Field. Registration is $30, and a virtual option is also available. rivercityraces.com

January 16 – 19, 2026: 30A Songwriters Festival 2026 — South Walton, FL

The 30A Songwriters Festival is a multi-day musical celebration, bringing together acclaimed singer-songwriters for intimate performances, collaborations, and storytelling through song. This year’s headlining performers include renowned artists Mavis Staples, Toad the Wet Sprocket, Margo Price, 10,000 Maniacs, I’m With Her, Nikki Lane, and Paul McDonald & The Mourning Doves. To see the complete schedule and purchase tickets, visit 30asongwritersfestival.com.

January 17, 2026: MLK Day 5K Drum Run — Birmingham, AL

Celebrate the legacy of Martin Luther King Jr. with community spirit and healthy movement at the MLK Day 5K & Fun Run. Embracing Dr. King’s legacy of unity and service, this event welcomes runners and walkers of all ages and abilities. mlkday5kbham.com

January 18, 2026: International Wine Festival — Roanoke, VA

A signature annual event at the Taubman Museum of Art, the International Wine Festival returns with exceptional wines, delicious paired hors d’oeuvres, and live entertainment. From bubbles to crisp whites and rich reds, seasoned wine stewards guide you through tasting notes to help you discover your new favorite international sips. Tickets start at $65 for this 21-and-up event. taubmanmuseum.org

January 18, 2026: BourbonHam — Birmingham, AL

BourbonHam, the city’s premier Bourbon and BBQ fundraiser, is where bourbon lovers — novice or aficionado — can sip their way through a selection of over 50 bourbons and whiskeys. Guests can enjoy award-winning BBQ, live music, and football — all while supporting the National MS Society. Tickets start at $150. bourbonham.com

January 19, 2026: King Day — Memphis, TN

The King Day celebration at the National Civil Rights Museum in Memphis honors Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. with a day of reflection, community engagement, and educational learning. Programming includes special museum access, powerful exhibits, and events designed to inspire dialogue and action around civil rights and social justice. civilrightsmuseum.org

January 20 – 26 & February 17 – 23, 2026: Asheville Restaurant Week — Asheville, NC

Asheville’s annual Restaurant Week is a celebration of the city’s diverse and delicious local dining scene. Participating restaurants offer special menus and prix fixe deals featuring creative cuisine and Southern hospitality. ashevillechamber.org

January 22 – 24, 2026: Oxford Fiber Festival — Oxford, MS

Hosted by All Y’all Fiber, the Oxford Fiber Festival is a beloved celebration of all things yarn, thread, and textile arts. Expect a schedule featuring workshops, demonstrations, maker markets, and community activities centered on knitting, weaving, dyeing, and more. oxfordfiberfestival.com

January 23 – 25, 2026: North Atlanta Home Show — Duluth, GA

The North Atlanta Home Show brings together the region’s top home improvement experts, designers, and vendors at the Gas South Convention Center. Attendees can browse exhibits, attend seminars, and connect directly with professionals in construction, decor, landscaping, and more. Show hours are Friday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Saturday, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.; and Sunday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tickets are $9. northatlantahomeshow.com

January 24 – February 1, 2026: Winter Wildlife Festival — Virginia Beach, VA

Bundle up and head to the Winter Wildlife Festival in Virginia Beach, a family‑friendly celebration of the region’s natural treasures and outdoor adventures. The event features educational programs, wildlife exhibits, guided nature walks, and interactive activities that highlight seasonal species, conservation, and the wonders of winter ecology. parks.virginiabeach.gov

Here’s to a fun and festive January!

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To see more great Southern events, check out our Happenings calendar.