Happy New Year, Baton Rouge!

The countdown is over, and 2026 is finally here. January brings infectious energy to the Capital City with the Louisiana Marathon, drawing runners from across the country for a weekend of fitness and fun. And just when you catch your breath, Mardi Gras season begins! Celebrate with the Krewe of Oshun Parade and Festival, the first parade of the year, and keep the party rolling at the Mardi Gras Mambo downtown. From finish lines to parade routes, Baton Rouge is where the good times start this month.

Here’s what’s happening this January in Baton Rouge!

Baton Rouge Zydeco Hockey Games

Friday, Jan. 2 & Saturday, Jan. 3

The Baton Rouge Zydeco is back for another season at the Raising Cane's River center this year. The Zydeco have a few home games scheduled for this month, so we suggest taking advantage of this opportunity and checking out their official schedule ahead of time. Grab your tickets and make your plans to eat, stay, and explore more of Baton Rouge while you're downtown for the game.

Shop Local Markets

Every Saturday of the month: Red Stick Farmers Market

1^st Saturday Only: Baton Rouge Arts Market

Date TBA: Local Pop Up Market

Stock up on fresh, seasonal produce and handcrafted goods while supporting local farmers and artisans. Stroll through the Red Stick Farmers Market, held in conjunction with the Baton Rouge Arts Market, and find unique art, jewelry, and home goods. Later in the month, check out Local Pop-Up at Electric Depot. This monthly event showcases talented local creators that's perfect for finding one-of-a-kind treasures!

First Free Sunday

Sunday, Jan. 4

On the first Sunday of every month, you can enjoy free admission to local museums, offering the perfect opportunity to learn more about the state's art, history and culture. Make a plan to check all of these museums off your bucket list and see the unique exhibitions and installations each has to offer. Participating museums include Capitol Park Museum, Cary Saurage Community Arts Center, Louisiana Art & Science Museum, Louisiana's Old Governor's Mansion, Louisiana's Old State Capitol, LSU Museum of Art, LSU Center for River Studies and Magnolia Mound.

Baton Rouge Jewish Film Festival

Wednesday, Jan. 14 – Sunday, Jan. 18

The Baton Rouge Jewish Film Festival returns January 14–18 at Manship Theatre! Experience powerful stories that celebrate Jewish culture and universal themes through film. Tickets are just $8.50 per screening, making it an accessible cultural event for all. Don’t miss this chance to connect, learn, and enjoy world-class cinema in the heart of downtown Baton Rouge!

The Harlem Globetrotters 100 Year Tour

Saturday, Jan. 17

The Harlem Globetrotters are coming to Baton Rouge!  Celebrate a century of jaw-dropping tricks, gravity-defying dunks, and family fun with this legendary team in basketball. This once-in-a-lifetime event brings new surprises, fan interactions, and unforgettable entertainment. Don’t miss your chance to be part of the legacy!

Louisiana Marathon

Saturday, Jan. 17 & Sunday, Jan. 18

The Louisiana Marathon is more than a race - it’s a two-day running festival with a dash of Louisiana lagniappe! There's a race for everyone, offering anything from a full marathon, half marathon, 10K, 5K, a kid’s 1-mile run. The scenic course winds through downtown Baton Rouge, the LSU lakes, and historic neighborhoods, with spectators lining every bit of the way. After crossing the finish line, runners and visitors can enjoy the Visit Baton Rouge Finish Festival, featuring award-winning Louisiana dishes like Wally Tallin's jambalaya and gumbo, plus live music and entertainment. Join a race today and get ready to run through Baton Rouge.

Krewe of Oshun Parade and Festival

Saturday, Jan. 31

Kick off Mardi Gras with the Krewe of Oshun, the first parade of carnival season.  Enjoy vibrant floats, music, and family fun, then stick around for the festival featuring food, entertainment, and local culture. Start the season the right way and make memories with your family, friends, and people all over the community.

Mardi Gras Mambo

Saturday, Jan. 31

Lace up and let the good times roll!  Join runners for a Mardi Gras celebration like no other, Baton Rouge style. Whether you’re cruising through the One Mile Fun Run or tackling the 10K or 15K, the Mardi Gras Mambo is your ticket to Carnival season. After the race, enjoy celebrating with live music, king cake, beer and festive fun.

Can't get enough of Baton Rouge? Check out our complete calendar of events to plan your next adventure.