Happy New Year! We’ve got a list of fun things to do in January to help you shake off those post-holiday blues. Whether you’re in Portland, Vancouver or Spokane, we’ve got you covered. Take a look at our calendar for more information including locations, times, and any updated event information.
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January Events in Oregon & Washington
Reel Music Festival – January 13-February 5
The Reel Music Festival celebrates the connection of music an image with an inspirational film festival. Both new and old films span several music genres, serving as inspiration for cinema and music fans.
Lake Chelan Winterfest – January 13-22
Celebrate all of the joys of winter at the Lake Chelan Winterfest! Just a few hours outside of Spokane, Lake Chelan provides the perfect venue for Washington’s most exciting winter festival. See incredible ice sculptures, enjoy live music, stroll through historic downtown during the Winterfest Wine Walk, and much more.
MLK Jr. Day of Service – January 16
Executive director of Know Your City, Cameron Whitten, is giving this years keynote address at WSU’s Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Service. Attend workshops on community involvement, activism, and more at this inspirational event. WSU will be collecting various household and food items to donate to Martha’s Pantry and the YWCA.
Rose City Classic – January 18-22
The Rose City Classic is the biggest dog show series in the west and one of the most popular dog show events in the United States. This show is fun for the whole family and includes exciting agility, obedience, and rally trials.
Spokane Jewish Festival – January 19, 20, 22
Presented by the Spokane Area Jewish Family Services, the Spokane Jewish Cultural Film Festival screens diverse and thought-provoking films about Jewish culture and identity. Catch the three-day film festival at Gonzaga University’s Hemmingson Center.
Oregon Truffle Festival – January 20-29
The decade-old Oregon Truffle Festival is the Northwest’s premier truffle celebration. Throughout three weekends of January, truffle fans can experience multiple course truffle dinners prepared by James Beard award-winning chefs, join an exciting truffle hunt with truffle dogs, and purchase and taste some of the finest artisanal truffle products the Northwest has to offer.
Clark College Jazz Festival – January 26-28
The Clark College Jazz Festival has been a staple cultural event in Southwest Washington for the past 55 years. The competitive festival attracts over 60 jazz ensembles from local middle and high schools.
Portland Renovation & Landscaping Show – January 27-29
With upwards of 200 professional exhibitors, you’re sure to find an expert in any area of home renovation and landscaping at the Portland Renovation and Landscaping Show. The show also offers seminars, demonstrations, and other activities geared toward helping you complete home projects in the New Year.
Chinese New Year – January 28
Kick-off the Chinese New Year at the Lan Su Chinese Gardens in Portland. The Year of the Rooster celebration begins with the “Rolling in the Wealth” tradition of rolling oranges and gold coins through Lan Su’s front door. The festival continues through February 6th and includes lion dances, cultural performances, and much more.
Mochitsuki – January 29
Head to Portland State University to attend the Japanese New Year celebration, Mochitsuki. Experience authentic Japanese culture with traditional music, performances, food, and much more.