Feeling that post-holiday slump? Don't let January get you down! Central New York is bursting with exciting events to kick off 2026 right. From Broadway hits to hip-hop legends, there's something for everyone this week.
Here's a curated list of 12 things to do in CNY to banish those winter blues:
Tuesday, January 6th:
1. 'MJ the Musical' at the Landmark Theatre: Theater buffs, this one's for you! The Tony Award-winning 'MJ the Musical' has arrived at the Landmark Theatre. This electrifying show dives deep into the creative process behind Michael Jackson's groundbreaking 1992 Dangerous World Tour. Get ready for iconic music, dazzling choreography, and a glimpse into the genius of the King of Pop.
Where: 362 S. Salina St., Syracuse
When: January 6-11; Check the Landmark Theatre's website for the full schedule.
How much: Tickets start at a price that will have you moonwalking to the box office – check online for details!
2. Art Cafe: Collage Buffet: Unleash your inner artist at Pink Rock Culture Co-op's Collage Buffet! This is more than just crafting; it's a chance to connect with others while creating something unique. All materials are provided to make collage art – think textured "junk journals" or a vibrant vision board to manifest your 2026 goals. Tea, coffee, seltzer, and water will be available, and you can also bring your own non-alcoholic beverages. It's a creative social gathering where the only limit is your imagination!
Where: 201 E. Jefferson Street, Syracuse
When: Tuesday, Jan. 6 at 6 p.m.
How much: Tickets are $10 online (https://events.humanitix.com/art-cafe-collage-buffet) or at the door. RSVP by emailing pinkrockcoop@gmail.com. Space may be limited, so RSVPing is recommended.
Wednesday, January 7th:
3. On A Winter’s Night Tour: Embrace the beauty of winter with the reunion show of "On A Winter’s Night" at the Center for the Arts of Homer. This special performance features veteran singer-songwriters Patty Larkin, John Gorka, Cliff Eberhardt, and Lucy Kaplansky. Back in 1994, Christine Lavin brought these folk and Americana artists together to celebrate the winter season, resulting in the classic "On A Winter’s Night" CD and years of collaborative touring. Known for their decades of recordings and touring, these artists bring warmth and reflection to the stage.
Where: 72 S. Main St., Homer.
When: Wednesday, Jan. 7 at 7:30 p.m.
How much: Tickets (https://tixr.com/groups/center4art) start at $53. A bit of a splurge, but worth it for a night of incredible music and storytelling.
Thursday, January 8th - Sunday, January 11th:
4. The Ultimate RV Show: Dreaming of summer adventures? Get a jump start on planning your next road trip at the Ultimate RV Show at the New York State Fairgrounds. From Thursday to Sunday, explore the latest RV models at the Expo Center and browse previously owned RVs at the Center of Progress Building. Admission is free, and so is parking! Imagine hitting the open road, camping under the stars... This is where those dreams begin.
Where: 581 State Fair Blvd., Syracuse
When: Thursday, Jan. 8 - Sunday, Jan. 11, starting at 9 a.m. each day.
How much: Free to attend. Get your tickets online at shows.campingworld.com/ultimate-rv-show-syracuse-new-york.
Friday, January 9th:
5. CNY Songbirds: The Big Motown Review: Get ready to groove! The CNY Songbirds, a powerhouse of local talent including Joanna Jewett, Maureen Henesey, Brett Hobin, and many more, will be performing a Motown Review as part of the Folkus Project. Prepare for a night of classic hits and soulful performances at May Memorial Unitarian Universalist Society.
Where: 3800 E. Genesee St., Syracuse
When: Friday, Jan. 9 at 8 p.m.
How much: $25 general admission; $22 for Folkus members. Tickets can be found on the Folkus website (https://www.folkus.org/shows/upcoming-shows/).
Saturday, January 10th:
6. Slick Rick at the Westcott Theater: Hip-hop heads, rejoice! The legendary Slick Rick is finally gracing the Westcott Theater stage. This show was originally scheduled for December, but now it's happening! Slick Rick, a pioneer of rap and hip-hop, is known for his iconic tracks like "Children’s Story" and "La-Di-Da-Di." With his distinctive British accent, nasally voice, signature eye patch, and colorful fashion, he's a true icon. He even received a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award! He last visited Syracuse in 2023 for the 50th anniversary of hip-hop at the NYS Fair.
Where: 524 Westcott St., Syracuse.
When: Saturday, Jan. 10 at 8 p.m.
How much: Advance tickets are $40, or $50 at the door. Don't miss out on seeing a true legend!
7. Montezuma Snowshoe Hikes: Explore the winter wonderland at the Montezuma Audubon Center! Join a family-friendly 1-mile snowshoe trek through marshes, grasslands, and forests. Dress warmly and get ready to discover the beauty of nature in winter. Snowshoes and binoculars will be provided as needed. This is a fantastic opportunity for both experienced birders and those simply curious about winter wildlife.
Where: Montezuma Audubon Center, 2295 State Route 89, Savannah.
When: Saturday, Jan. 10 at 10 a.m. and 1 p.m.
How much: Free to attend. Register online at act.audubon.org/a/canals-snowshoeing-2. Spaces fill up quickly, so register early!
8. Syracuse Orchestra Jazz Concerts: Experience the fusion of jazz, Broadway, and classical music with the Syracuse Orchestra Jazz Concerts. This concert features four composers who fearlessly blurred the lines between genres. Both performances take place at Saint Paul’s Syracuse, a beautiful downtown Episcopal church. It's a sophisticated and unique musical experience.
Where: 220 East Fayette St., Syracuse
When: Saturday, Jan. 10 at 7 p.m. and Sunday, Jan. 11 at 3 p.m.
How much: Tickets are $40 for adults, $34 for seniors, $5 for students, and free for those under 18.
9. Brotality & Blooded: Ready to rock? Mosh Retirement presents Brotality & Blooded, along with special guests Rhythm Of Descent and Consider Me A Stranger, at The Song & Dance downtown on Saturday. Get ready for a night of hardcore music and headbanging. A heads up: attendees under 16 must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian.
Where: 115 East Jefferson St., Syracuse
When: Saturday, Jan. 10 at 7 p.m. Show at 7:30 p.m.
How much: Tickets start at $15 online. (https://www.ticketweb.com/event/brotality-blooded-the-song-dance-tickets/13973034?REFID=clientsitewp)
10. Nobody’s Wine 101 Class: Want to become a wine connoisseur in 2026? Nobody’s sommeliers are hosting Wine 101, a relaxed and informative class designed to guide you through six wines – three reds and three whites. You'll learn about the stories behind the wines and the people who create them, as well as how sommeliers taste and talk about wine. This class will help you build confidence in identifying quality and value in wine.
Where: 222 Walton St., Syracuse
When: Saturday, Jan. 10 at 1:30 p.m.
How much: $50 per ticket. (https://www.exploretock.com/nobodys-hospitality-group-syracuse/event/578910/wine-101-back-to-the-basics) A great way to treat yourself or a fellow wine lover!
11. Fiesta de Reyes Gala: Experience the vibrant culture of the Puerto Rican community at the annual Fiesta de Reyes Gala. Taking place at the Marriott Downtown Syracuse, this event features music by Algo Real & DJ Klockz, a cash bar, and a silent auction benefiting the Puerto Rican Festival Scholarship. It's a night of culture, music, and community you won't want to miss! No te pierdas una noche inolvidable llena de cultura, música y comunidad.
Where: 100 E. Onondaga St., Syracuse
When: Saturday, Jan. 10 at 7 p.m.
How much: $75 per person.
Sunday, January 11th:
12. 40th Annual Gingerbread Gallery: It's your last chance to visit the Erie Canal Museum's (https://eriecanalmuseum.org/) enchanting 40th annual Gingerbread Gallery (https://eriecanalmuseum.org/gingerbread/). The museum is transformed into a festive 19th-century streetscape filled with gingerbread creations. This sweet tradition began in 1986 and features nearly 50 gingerbread houses crafted by both professional and home bakers from across Central New York. A truly magical experience for all ages!
Where: 318 Erie Boulevard East, Syracuse
When: Open seven days a week, through Sunday, Jan. 11, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
How much: Adults $12, Seniors (65+) $10, Children (2–17) $5, Children under 2 are free.
So, what are you waiting for? Get out there and explore all that CNY has to offer this week!
Know of an event you would like to see on this list? Email us at least two weeks in advance at features@syracuse.com.
What event are you most excited about? Do you think the RV show is just for serious buyers, or a fun way to escape the winter blues? Let us know in the comments below!
