New Year in the East Bay: 10 Best Things to Do in January
January in Oakland and Berkeley is the Bay Area's "secret season."
The holiday crowds have thinned, the air is crisp, and the hills are finally turning that vibrant, lush green. If you’re visiting on a budget or looking to kick off your New Year’s resolutions with a mix of culture and wellness, you’ve picked the perfect time.
January isn't the "off-season"—it's the exclusive season.
Whether you’re a leisure traveler staying at our Oakland hotel, a parent visiting UC Berkeley, or here supporting a loved one at Kaiser Permanente, here are the 10 best ways to spend your January 2026 in the East Bay.
1. Catch the Final Glow of Glowfari
If you missed the holiday rush, you’re in luck. The Oakland Zoo’s Glowfari lantern festival typically runs through January 25, 2026.
- The Vibe: Hundreds of massive, hand-painted animal lanterns.
- Pro Tip: Tickets are timed and sell out fast. Book your stay and your tickets at least two weeks out!
2. Honor the Legacy: NorCal MLK Day
January 19, 2026, marks one of the most significant East Bay New Year events. Join the annual march and music festival in downtown. It’s a powerful, community-driven way to start your year with purpose.
3. The Downtown First Thursday Block Party
Start the year with a bang on January 1, 2026. Downtown Oakland hosts a massive free block party with live jazz, fashion shows, and local vendors. It’s the ultimate "locals only" way to ring in the New Year.
4. Witness the Whale Migration
January is peak season for California Gray Whales.
- Where to go: Take a quick day trip to the coast or book a charter out of the SF Bay.
It’s a bucket-list winter in Oakland activity that’s surprisingly easy to access from our Broadway location.
5. Hike the "Green" Redwoods
New Year's resolution to get fit? Skip the gym. Head to Reinhardt Redwood Regional Park. The trails are spectacular in January—cool enough for a long hike but sheltered by the massive canopy.
6. Cal Basketball at Haas Pavilion
Experience the energy of Berkeley activities by catching a Golden Bears game. Haas Pavilion is just a short drive from the Signature Inn Berkeley Oakland, making us the perfect home base for sports fans.
7. Art & Film at BAMPFA
If a rainy January day hits, head to the Berkeley Art Museum and Pacific Film Archive. It’s one of the most architecturally stunning buildings in the East Bay and offers world-class exhibits that are often less crowded this time of year.
8. The Broadway Coffee & Brunch Crawl
Since you’re staying at our hotel near Kaiser Oakland, you are in the heart of the "Broadway Corridor." Spend a slow Saturday morning hopping between local roasters like Blue Bottle or Highwire Coffee.
9. Stargazing at Chabot Space & Science Center
Winter skies are often the clearest. Check out the free telescope viewings on Friday and Saturday nights. It’s a romantic, low-cost date night that offers the best views of the entire Bay Area.
10. Garden of D’Lights (Final Weeks)
Located in nearby Walnut Creek (about a 15-minute drive), this garden light show is open through January 11, 2026. It’s a 3D-mapped light experience that feels like walking through a futuristic forest.
Your January Strategy: Why Stay With Us?
Planning things to do in Oakland in January is easier when you don't have to worry about the logistics.
- Complimentary Parking: Save your budget for the Oakland food scene—we’ve got your car covered.
- Central Location: We are situated right on Broadway, giving you instant access to both Oakland and Berkeley.
- Hospital Proximity: For our guests visiting Kaiser or Children’s Hospital, we provide a quiet, comfortable retreat after a long day.
Ready to kick off your 2026 in the East Bay?
