Settle in for the long, cold winter. The days are getting longer, but January just might be the dreariest month of the year.
Fear not, we have ideas to get you through it. Here are our picks for family fun around Champaign-Urbana.
Thank you to Dick’s House of Sport for presenting our Top Things to Do in January. Visit Dick’s on Jan. 20 to meet its golf pro, Greg Flesher. Dick’s will have open golf bays all day.
Cozy Crafternoon at Champaign Public Library, Jan. 5
Head to the library for a relaxing winter afternoon of crafts, puzzles, and good books. Families can embrace the Danish tradition of hygge (pronounced hoo-guh) and unwind together in a cozy creative space.
Free S’mores Social and Stroll, Jan. 14
Join fellow snow lovers on these fun winter strolls through Crystal Lake Park. Bundle up and enjoy a crisp walk at your own pace with friends. After your walk, convene on the patio at the Lake House for s’mores over a fire and hot chocolate. Beat the indoor winter blues with fresh air and lake views.
Annual County-wide MLK Celebration, Jan. 14
The Annual County-wide Celebration commemorates Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr’s legacy by bringing together community members from Champaign County to celebrate the mission, teachings, and legacy of Dr. King. This year’s featured keynote speaker is Rev. BJ Tatum. Event held at Krannert Center for the Performing Arts.
MLK Day Skate at U of I Ice Arena, Jan. 15
School is closed in observance of Martin Luther King Jr. Day, so head over to the University of Illinois Ice Arena for some skating from 11:30 a.m.-2 p.m.
Indian Ink Theatre Company: Mrs. Krishnan’s Party, Jan. 18-20
Visit Studio Theatre at Krannert Center for Mrs. Krishnan’s party like no other, where the actors juggle cooking, music and guests in an unfolding drama.
MüV Collective Presents: Mini Class Sampler and One Year Anniversary Celebration, Jan. 18
Join Chambanamoms at MüV Collective in Mahomet for a Mini Class Sampler & One Year Anniversary from 5:30-7 p.m. In honor of MüV Collective’s one year anniversary, it is celebrating with “mini classes” from all of its instructors, featuring 10 minute back-to-back samples of all of its class offerings. Snacks (from Namken Nutrition!) and drinks will be provided, and full meals will be available for purchase. Sign up to attend the free class sampler.
CCFPD Snowflake Search Begins, Jan. 18
Get out and explore our local winter wonderland in search of snowflakes! CCFPD has hidden creative snowflakes and winter fun facts throughout the Champaign County Forest Preserves. Bundle up and find them! The search runs Jan. 18-Feb. 29. Get details here.
Champaign County Area Restaurant Week Begins, Jan. 26
The 8th Annual Champaign County Area Restaurant Week gives you the opportunity to experience new and fresh menus, some of which even little ones will enjoy. Get ready to experience a showcase of local restaurants and food trucks, serving up Vietnamese, Filipino, Indian, Cambodian, Thai, Laos, Mexican, Caribbean, Italian, Zambian, Vegetarian, Vegan, soul food, farm-to-table, and standard American fare.
Sledding, all month (weather pending)
We’ll refrain from providing specific dates and times, but if history is any indication, January — historically the snowiest month of the year in central Illinois — will allow for some ideal sledding conditions. Here is our list of the best spots to take the kids for prime sledding opportunities. Or go ice skating. Or snowshoeing.