It’s time to bundle up because January is one of Colorado’s coldest months, with an average low of around 17 degrees in Denver, according to the National Weather Service. The colder weather can discourage us from getting out of the house, but there are plenty of things to do in our state despite the freezing temperatures.
January is also the month for New Year’s resolutions, so it’s a great time to get healthier and break bad habits. Whether you are getting in shape, quitting smoking or setting a goal to read more, we all have small steps we can take to make 2024 a little healthier. Following the SMART goal system, which stands for Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant and Time-bound, will ensure your goals are realistic and achievable. However, the key to long-lasting change is to incorporate healthy lifestyle habits into your daily life and your fun.
Here are some of our favorite activities and events happening in Colorado in January to help you stay active, nourish your body and feed your soul.
Jan. 1-31: Explore a unique and scenic Colorado landscape in a Jeep
Winter is no match for enclosed, heated Jeeps. Colorado Jeep Tours allows you to navigate the vibrant formations of Red Rock Park and explore areas off-road. Located 45 minutes from Colorado Springs in Canon City, you can choose from half- and full-day trips that include iconic stops like the Royal Gorge Bridge and Skyline Drive. Well-behaved pups are also welcome!
Jan. 9 and Jan. 15: Honor Martin Luther King, Jr. at the Colorado Symphony and at 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. 9 at the Boettcher Concert Hall in the Denver Performing Arts Complex. Tickets are available online and at the Colorado Symphony Box Office beginning Dec. 26, 2023, at 8 a.m.
You can also participate in Denver’s annual march and parade, known as the Marade. It takes place on Jan. 15, 2024, Martin Luther King, Jr. Day. The opening ceremony starts at City Park at 9:30 a.m. Marchers then head from City Park to Civic Center Park. Following the closing ceremony there, people can enjoy the 2024 Denver Martin Luther King, Jr. Bike Ride.
Jan. 13 and Jan. 27: Load up on fresh produce and local goods at the farmer’s market
We know what you’re thinking, the farmers market is a summertime affair. Well, the City of Fort Collins offers a winter farmers market. Featuring rows of beautiful winter produce, local meats and cheeses, breads, sweets, local artist booths and handcrafted goods, you won’t want to miss it. Plus, buying local is one of the best ways to get the most nutritiously dense food, with the lowest carbon footprint. There are several other winter markets around the state, too.
Jan. 26-28: See the world’s best in snow sports
The world’s best skiers and snowboarders take over Buttermilk Mountain at Aspen Snowmass for three days of heart-pounding action during the Winter X Games. The event is free to attend and showcases 18 different extreme snow sport disciplines. X Games Aspen also offers live concerts in-between competition events. Follow @Xgames across digital and social media platforms to get the most up-to-date information.
Jan 26-28: Embrace the season in one of the coldest cities in Colorado
On the last weekend of January, residents and visitors take to the outdoors for the Alamosa Rio Frio Ice Fest. The tradition, which began more than a decade ago in Alamosa provides festivalgoers with various activities for the entire family. Intricate ice sculptures in downtown Alamosa, an ice bowl disc golf tournament, ice climbing, ice skating and don’t forget the famous Rio Frio 5k on Ice, a 5k run on the frozen Rio Grande River, a truly one-of-a-kind race experience.