When it comes to things to do in Miami in January, we are spoiled for choice. Whether you are a local looking to add excitement to your post-holiday calendar or are a tourist chasing the winter sun, you’ll find a world of opportunities here.
From pickleball to parades, Miami’s January event calendar will keep you on your toes. To help you plan the perfect night out or weekend away, here is everything you need to know about what’s happening in South Florida this month.
This post contains affiliate links, meaning if you buy something through one of these links, we may earn a small commission, at no extra cost to you. Please read our full disclosure policy for more information.
👉 Planning a trip to Miami? Here are some other posts you might find helpful.
- Insider’s Guide to 15 Popular Miami Neighborhoods Worth Visiting
- 2-Day Miami Itinerary: A Jam-Packed Guide for First-Timer Visitors
- Where to Stay in Miami: Best Hotels, Neighborhoods, & More
- 35 Essentials to Pack for Your Florida Road Trip
- Family Activities South Florida: Top 45 Things to Do in Miami with Kids
- 15 Best Activities for Water Lovers in Miami
January 2024 Miami Events & Festivals
January 12 – 14: Art Deco Weekend
Held in the Miami Beach Architectural District, this free three-day festival celebrates all things tropical retro, featuring guided walking tours, a classic car show, live music, and food, all with the district’s colorful art deco buildings as the backdrop.
January 11 – 25: Miami Jewish Film Festival
Experience the finest in classic and contemporary Jewish films, screening around the city at venues including the Miami Beach Bandshell, O Cinema South Beach, Miami Theater Center, and more. Check the official festival website for the program lineup and event tickets.
January 13 – 14: Miami Comedy Festival
In the mood for a laugh? For the best comedy show in Miami, look to this fabulous festival. Hosted by Hard Rock Hollywood, this hilarious series of shows is the perfect Miami weekend activity. Grab the details here for one of the most fun things to do in Florida.
January 13 -14: The Pickle Games Miami
Ready for the biggest pickleball festival in the world? For the ultimate pickleball weekend, mark your calendar for the famous Miami pickleball competition.
Whether you’re a serious fan or just looking for things to do in Miami, you won’t want to miss this. Come hungry for the best street food in Miami and plan plenty of time to stick around for the live music.
Planning Tip: Visiting Miami in January? Check out our Guide to the Best Hotels in Miami at Every Price Point.
January 15: Martin Luther King Jr. Day
Join the Liberty City Martin Luther King Parade to celebrate Miami’s Caribbean and African heritage and honor Martin Luther King Jr. Day.
After the parade, explore the diverse menu of global flavors and check out the best local rap, hip-hop, R&B, soul, jazz, reggae, and salsa.
Jan 27 – 28: Miami Brickell Art Festival
Formerly known as the Miami/ Coral Gables Art & Mega Festival, this much-loved art festival has officially moved to Brickell and is better than ever.
To sample the ultra-fresh local seafood, you’ve got to check out the Brickell Seafood Festival. Expect a fun weekend of fantastic food, music, and, of course, art. Foodies, craft beer, and wine lovers will have a ball at this fun January event. Book your tickets in advance online.
Planning Tip: Want to whet your appetite before the event? Eat your way through the best restaurants in Miami. Here is your insider guide to local favorite eateries.
More Inspiration for Things to Do in Miami in January
Explore South Beach like a local
From Lincoln Road to Lummus Park, beaches to city sights, Miami Beach has an attraction for every visitor. Learn about the historic roots of South Beach and the vibrant Art Deco District and get to know the area like a local with these tour highlights:
- South Beach Multicultural Food Tasting Tour: Between tasting local cuisine, studying Art Deco buildings, and exploring the streets, this tour takes an inside look at Miami Beach. Book here!
- South Beach Sip and Salsa: Mingling salsa dancing and classic cocktails, adventurous visitors will love this experience. Pricing information here.
- South Beach Segway Tour: Get on some wheels and roll your way down Ocean Drive and enjoy the views. Booking info here.
- See Miami’s Most Impressive Homes: Set sail on a 90 minute scenic cruise around South Beach & Venetian Islands Millionaire Homes to see how the other half lives.
Planning Tip: Want to make a day of it and discover more things to do in South Beach? Grab our guide for insider tips on exploring this popular neighborhood.
Explore the Florida Everglades
Take the opportunity to explore Florida’s wildlife and embark on a thrilling airboat ride through Everglades National Park. Learn about the delicate ecosystem and get up close and personal with wildlife in their natural habitat. Keep your eyes peeled for alligators, egrets, and coral snakes as you weave through mangroves tunnels.
Insider Tip: Visit Everglades via the Homestead Trolley for free park admission to both Everglades National Park and Biscayne National Park to those riding on the National Parks Trolley. Find out more info here.
January is the perfect time to visit the Shark Valley Visitor Center. Grab our complete guide here and plan your own ultimate South Florida adventure.
Get Wild at the Miami Zoo
Whether you’re an animal lover or looking for a fun activity with the kids, Zoo Miami is a great option! Home to over 3000 animals, including over 30 endangered species, the zoo is one of the most exclusive and wildlife-friendly zoos around the world.
And the best part about it is that the animals aren’t confined to cages with other animals, instead they live in large areas of land which predominantly imitates their natural habitat. They also interact with other species as they would in the wild.
Planning Tip: Get your tickets in advance to save time (and consider doing the VIP upgrade).
Be Dazzled at Vizcaya Museum and Gardens
Miami is famous for its architecture, and there are countless gems around the city to admire. Enjoy the grandeur of Vizcaya Museum and Gardens, take a stroll through the immaculately designed Italian-French renaissance gardens learning about Miami’s Golden Age.
Whether you are a design aficionado or not, the Vizcaya Museum and Gardens is a perfect January afternoon stop. Book online to jump the line.
Grab a Miami Explorer Pass
To see all of the top attractions in Miami, opt for the Go City Miami Explorer Pass. With access to over 25 different sights, experiences, and tours in Miami, you can save big when combining attractions with this pass. It’s a smart way to save money traveling through South Florida while bypassing the ticket booths.
Planning Tip: To see the top attractions of Miami without all the hassle of planning, connect with a local for a guided experience. Here’s a rundown of our top ten best tours in Miami to help you hit the ground running.
Catch a Game
When you visit Miami, you’ve got to catch a game! Cheer alongside the locals and get in the Florida spirit. January is the prime time to catch a Miami Heat Basketball game (you can find the schedule here) or a Florida Panthers Hockey game (full details here).
Miami Travel FAQs
Is January a Good Time to Visit Miami?
Absolutely! Winter in Miami is unbeatable. It’s one of the best winter sun destinations in the United States. The weather is comfortable and sunny, making it perfect for exploring and lounging at the beach.
This is the perfect time to explore the great outdoors. Get our guide to Miami’s best parks and trails to plan your path. And when you’re ready to refuel, head up to the dazzling rooftop restaurants of Miami.
What Is the Weather in Miami in January Like?
In January in Miami, you can expect weather in the 70s fahrenheit. It is rarely over 82-83 degrees and not often under 68 degrees. Generally speaking, that means you can enjoy the best Miami beaches in January and go around in a t-shirt in the afternoons. It is a good idea to bring a sweater or a light jacket for chilly mornings and evenings (as well as a few indoor spots that are a little too zealous with the AC!).
With its beautiful January weather in Miami, eclectic cuisines, art and culture this magical city is a hard pass for anyone who wants to relax and have some sun winter fun in Miami!
Looking for more things to do in Miami? You need the 101 Things to Do in Miami: Your Ultimate Miami Bucket List.