It’s time to bundle up because January is one of Colorado’s coldest months, with an average low temperature near 17 degrees in Denver, according to the National Weather Service.
Colder weather can discourage us from leaving the house, but there are plenty of fun things to do in our state despite the freezing temperatures. You can enjoy indoor activities or put on your coat, hat, gloves and boots and venture out into the snow.
Celebrate January by attending these winter events.
January 10-25 – Embrace Denver’s ‘cow town’ roots and attend the National Western Stock Show
There is no better way to spend a day (or days) in January than at the National Western Stock Show in Denver. This iconic event, which began in 1906, brings together ranchers from across the country to showcase their livestock and enjoy each other’s company. The 16-day event features 30 rodeos, 11 horse shows and countless other events and activities.
While animals are the stars of the stock show, there’s much more to see and do. From cow dogs and breeding ewes to bull riders, barrel racers, fiddlers and art shows, the National Western Stock Show offers diverse activities and attractions. Take the kids to the Wild West Show or the Xtreme Dogs Show and celebrate the history and heritage of America’s Black cowboys during the Martin Luther King Jr. African American Heritage Rodeo of Champions . Watch young rodeo cowboys and cowgirls get their start in the “In Rodeo Mutton Bustin,” and enjoy the cultural pageantry of the Mexican Rodeo Extravaganza.
You can also watch and learn about the many skills of horses at various shows, such as an evening of dancing horses, a ranch rodeo invitational, show jumping competitions, and draft horse and pulling contests. The National Western Stock Show truly has something for everyone.
January 13 and 19: Colorado Symphony and the annual ‘Marade’
Known as the most prominent spokesperson and leader in the American Civil Rights Movement, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. remains one of the most inspirational figures in American history. The Colorado Symphony honors King each year with a free tribute concert. This year, the concert will be held at 7:30 p.m. on Jan. 13 at the Boettcher Concert Hall in the Denver Performing Arts Complex. Tickets are available online and at the Colorado Symphony Box Office.
You can also participate in Denver’s annual march and parade, known as the Marade. It occurs on Jan. 19, 2026, Martin Luther King, Jr. Day. The opening ceremony starts at City Park at 9:30 a.m. Marchers then head from City Park to Lincoln Veterans Memorial Park (new route this year). There is no closing ceremony this year.
Starting January 14: Tour the Colorado State Capitol and see government in action – Denver, Colorado
Get ready to explore the heart of Colorado’s government. The Colorado State Capitol is open to the public Monday through Friday, from 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. (excluding most federal and state holidays). Take advantage of the free guided tours available on the hour between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m., and don’t miss the chance to visit the Dome Observation Area for a breathtaking view of the city. (Note: self-guided tours do not include dome access.)
The 2026 Legislative Session kicks off on Jan. 14. Sessions are open to the public and offer a unique way to witness government in action.
Remember, guests must pass through metal detectors and have their belongings scanned at the entrance.
January 16: 4th annual Salute to Heroes – Pueblo, Colorado
Pueblo residents will come together on Jan. 16 for Salute to Heroes, an evening dedicated to honoring military members, veterans and family members who embody the spirit of southern Colorado.
The three-hour event features live music, community networking, a silent auction and a heartfelt tribute to three local Pueblo heroes. This event is family friendly and open to anyone who wants to show appreciation for those who have served.
The event is hosted by Mt. Carmel Veterans Service Center, a nonprofit committed to connecting veterans and their families to resources, support programs and opportunities. Salute to Heroes contributes to their mission by celebrating service and strengthening community ties. More details, tickets and sponsorship opportunities are available by visiting its website.
January 16-18: Celebrate the First Peoples Festival – Estes Park, Colorado
Help Estes Park honor indigenous heritage during the First Peoples Festival, a winter event that brings together music, food, dancing and storytelling.
Enjoy traditional performances, browse authentic art and learn about the history and traditions of Indigenous communities during this three-day event. Events include an indigenous-inspired dinner (tickets required), a film symposium, a fashion show, a friendship powwow and educational demonstrations. The festival offers a chance to connect with Colorado’s rich cultural roots while supporting Native artisans and educators.
The event is part of Estes Park’s winter lineup and offers an educational, family-friendly way to celebrate diversity.
January 23-25: Estes Park Skijor – Estes Park, Colorado
Horsepower meets winter sports as the Estes Park Skijor event, where competitors on skis race behind galloping horses through a snow-packed course.
This high-energy event blends speed, skill and teamwork, as riders and skiers navigate jumps and obstacles. It’s a fun event, offering a glimpse into Colorado’s adventurous spirit and its cowboy heritage.
January 24 to February 3: See the world’s best snow and ice competitions – throughout Colorado
From Jan. 24 to Feb. 3, Breckenridge, Colorado, hosts the International Snow Sculpture Championships. Teams from around the world transform 25-ton blocks of snow into breathtaking masterpieces that are especially stunning when illuminated at night. It’s a must-see event.
The 31st annual Ouray Ice Festival takes place Jan. 22-25 in Ouray, Colorado. Watch expert climbers conquer colossal frozen masterpieces at Ouray’s one-mile span of human-made ice walls. Visitors of all ages can participate in an ice climbing clinic and, in the evenings, enjoy movies and presentations by some of the world’s best climbers.
Speaking of world-renowned athletes, don’t miss the annual Winter X Games from Jan. 23-25 in Aspen, Colorado. This event features the world’s best skiers and snowboarders competing in 18 extreme snow sports disciplines. The event is free, and there are live concerts between competitions. Follow @Xgames across digital and social media platforms for the latest updates.
Throughout January: Enjoy a Colorado Eagles hockey home game – Loveland, Colorado
Six-time Stanley Cup winner Ralph Backstrom brought hockey to northern Colorado in 2002, making it an exciting and affordable activity for hockey lovers and their families.
Attend a Colorado Eagles game at the Blue Arena this January and enjoy high-energy action with community-focused entertainment. While you’re there, watch for the adorable “Slapshot” mascot.
Tickets to Eagles games are reasonably priced, making them an affordable way to enjoy a hockey game with family and friends. Look for special ticket offers.
Throughout January: Take a hike or take winter photographs at Fish Creek Falls – Steamboat Springs, Colorado
This short, family-friendly hike outside Steamboat Springs, Colorado, offers beauty and serenity. The 1.65-mile round-trip trail, with 350 feet of elevation gain, is suitable for all hiking levels and takes about an hour to complete. At 7,500 feet in elevation, Fish Creek Falls is usually frozen from December through April, providing stunning winter scenery. Bring your camera and capture the “snow pillows” that lead you to the falls.
The road to the trailhead is paved and maintained year-round. There is a small parking lot and a non-plumbing bathroom available. The trail is open from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m., and there is a $5 fee. Dogs are welcome, but owners must keep them leashed and dispose of their waste.
For those looking for a longer adventure, extending the route to 10 miles round trip is possible. The best winter experience is to head out early before the snow softens; visitors may need snowshoes in the afternoon. Remember to pack warm clothes and your camera to capture the beauty of the frozen river and falls.