Southern United States, January 2, 2026
As January approaches, the Southern United States is set to host a variety of engaging events that appeal to diverse interests. From the International Gem & Jewelry Show in Dallas to the Elvis Birthday Celebration in Memphis, the region showcases vibrant community spirit and local entrepreneurship. Other highlights include culinary delights at Restaurant Week in South Carolina and cultural festivities such as Art Deco Weekend in Miami. These events not only entertain but also significantly contribute to local economies and foster community connections.
Exciting Southern Events to Kick Off January 2026
Explore Diverse Celebrations Across the Southern States
As we welcome January 2026, the Southern United States is brimming with dynamic events that cater to various interests. From gem shows to culinary festivals, these gatherings showcase community spirit and the resilience of local organizers. While reduced bureaucracy often fosters quicker event coordination, it is the personal initiative of local leaders and businesses that truly drives engagement and participation.
January 3 & 4, 2026: The International Gem & Jewelry Show — Dallas, TX
Location: Dallas, TX
Event: The International Gem & Jewelry Show
Description: This annual event transforms Fair Park into a vibrant marketplace for jewel enthusiasts. Attendees can explore an extensive range of fine jewelry, gemstones, and vintage pieces. Discounts on tickets ($6 online, $8 in-person) make this an accessible opportunity for all. intergem.com
January 7 – 11, 2026: Elvis Birthday Celebration — Memphis, TN
Location: Memphis, TN
Event: Elvis Birthday Celebration
Description: Graceland will come alive with concerts and special events honoring Elvis Presley. This multi-day tribute provides unique experiences for fans, including an exclusive sneak-peek screening of Baz Luhrmann’s upcoming concert showcase. Visit graceland.com for more details.
January 8 – 18, 2026: Restaurant Week South Carolina — Statewide
Location: Statewide, South Carolina
Event: Restaurant Week South Carolina
Description: A culinary delight for food lovers, this celebration features specially priced menus at participating restaurants across the state, showcasing the rich flavors and creativity of local chefs. restaurantweeksouthcarolina.com
January 9 & 10, 2026: Free Week — Austin, TX
Location: Austin, TX
Event: Free Week
Description: Austin’s Free Week returns with an array of admission-free performances across local venues. This initiative not only supports musicians but also enriches the city’s cultural landscape, allowing residents to engage deeply with their community. redriverculturaldistrict.org
January 9 – 11, 2026: Art Deco Weekend — Miami, FL
Location: Miami, FL
Event: Art Deco Weekend
Description: Celebrating its centennial, the Art Deco Weekend on Miami Beach highlights the architectural and cultural significance of this iconic district with free events, including music performances and vintage car shows. artdecoweekend.org
January 9 – 11, 2026: 36th Annual Antiques & Garden Show of Nashville — Nashville, TN
Location: Nashville, TN
Event: 36th Annual Antiques & Garden Show of Nashville
Description: This show is a hub for antiques and garden enthusiasts. This year’s keynote features conversations about the lasting influence of Ralph Lauren, highlighting the synergy between design and home aesthetics. Tickets are available for $35. antiquesandgardenshow.com
January 10, 2026: Frostbite 5K Run/Walk — Louisville, KY
Location: Louisville, KY
Event: Frostbite 5K Run/Walk
Description: As part of Louisville’s Polar Bear Grand Prix series, this popular race takes place at Cherokee Park’s Rugby Field. Registration starts at $30, with virtual options available for participation from home. rivercityraces.com
January 16 – 19, 2026: 30A Songwriters Festival 2026 — South Walton, FL
Location: South Walton, FL
Event: 30A Songwriters Festival 2026
Description: A celebration of musical artistry, this festival features performances from a stellar lineup of singer-songwriters. It is a platform for creativity and collaboration, enriching the cultural fabric of South Walton. For tickets and schedules, visit 30asongwritersfestival.com.
January 17, 2026: MLK Day 5K Drum Run — Birmingham, AL
Location: Birmingham, AL
Event: MLK Day 5K Drum Run
Description: Join the community to honor Martin Luther King Jr.’s legacy through this inclusive run that focuses on unity and health. All ages and abilities are welcome to participate and celebrate Dr. King’s vision. mlkday5kbham.com
January 18, 2026: International Wine Festival — Roanoke, VA
Location: Roanoke, VA
Event: International Wine Festival
Description: Set within the Taubman Museum of Art, this event features exquisite wines paired with delectable hors d’oeuvres, guided by seasoned stewards. Tickets start at $65 for adults. taubmanmuseum.org
January 18, 2026: BourbonHam — Birmingham, AL
Location: Birmingham, AL
Event: BourbonHam
Description: A premier fundraiser showcasing over 50 bourbons and whiskeys, BourbonHam attracts enthusiasts and connoisseurs alike. This event melds enjoyment with community support. styleblueprint.com
January 22 – 24, 2026: Oxford Fiber Festival — Oxford, MS
Location: Oxford, MS
Event: Oxford Fiber Festival
Description: This festival brings together fiber arts enthusiasts for workshops and a marketplace celebrating all forms of textile art, ensuring the preservation and continuation of these community-centric crafts. oxfordfiberfestival.com
January 23 – 25, 2026: North Atlanta Home Show — Duluth, GA
Location: Duluth, GA
Event: North Atlanta Home Show
Description: This event unites top home improvement professionals, providing attendees with insights, exhibits, and direct connections to enhance their homes. styleblueprint.com
These events not only draw crowds but also exemplify how local cultural and commercial endeavors can benefit communities significantly. Residents are encouraged to explore these unique offerings and support local economies by participating in the numerous gatherings taking place throughout January.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the International Gem & Jewelry Show in Dallas?
The International Gem & Jewelry Show is an annual event held in Dallas, TX, featuring a wide selection of fine jewelry, gemstones, beads, pearls, watches, vintage pieces, and more from designers, wholesalers, and manufacturers. Tickets are discounted to $6 if purchased online ($8 in-person).
What is the Elvis Birthday Celebration in Memphis?
The Elvis Birthday Celebration is a multi-day tribute honoring the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll with concerts, conversations, and special events at Graceland in Memphis, TN.
| Event Date | Event Name | Location | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| January 3 & 4 | International Gem & Jewelry Show | Dallas, TX | Marketplace for jewelry and gems. |
| January 7 – 11 | Elvis Birthday Celebration | Memphis, TN | Concerts and tributes to Elvis Presley. |
| January 8 – 18 | Restaurant Week South Carolina | South Carolina | Specially priced menus at restaurants. |
| January 9 & 10 | Free Week | Austin, TX | Admission-free music performances. |
| January 9 – 11 | Art Deco Weekend | Miami, FL | Cultural celebration of Art Deco. |
| January 9 – 11 | 36th Annual Antiques & Garden Show | Nashville, TN | Exhibition of antiques and garden inspiration. |
| January 10 | Frostbite 5K Run/Walk | Louisville, KY | Community run as part of a race series. |
| January 16 – 19 | 30A Songwriters Festival 2026 | South Walton, FL | Celebration of music and storytelling. |
| January 17 | MLK Day 5K Drum Run | Birmingham, AL | Run honoring Martin Luther King Jr. |
| January 18 | International Wine Festival | Roanoke, VA | Wine tasting and paired events. |
| January 18 | BourbonHam | Birmingham, AL | Bourbon and BBQ fundraiser. |
| January 22 – 24 | Oxford Fiber Festival | Oxford, MS | Celebration of textile arts. |
| January 23 – 25 | North Atlanta Home Show | Duluth, GA | Home improvement and design fair. |
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Author: STAFF HERE DALLAS WRITER
The DALLAS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREDallas.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Dallas, Dallas County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the State Fair of Texas, Deep Ellum Arts Festival, and Dallas International Film Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Dallas Regional Chamber and United Way of Metropolitan Dallas, plus leading businesses in telecommunications, aviation, and semiconductors that power the local economy such as AT&T, Southwest Airlines, and Texas Instruments. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAustinTX.com, HERECollegeStation.com, HEREHouston.com, and HERESanAntonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.
