January Events in Anchorage, AK

January in Anchorage may not always seem like the ideal time to leave the house given the temperatures, wind, and darkened skies. Luckily, event planners in the state know exactly what residents and locals need to put their reservations aside—at least for a few hours or so. Here are some events worth checking out at the very beginning of 2020.

Zoo Lights

When the night goes black, Zoo Lights brings the color back. The Alaska Zoo is stringing up enough lights to dazzle and delight the senses for all. This family-friendly display illuminates walkways, animal exhibits, and more. This event takes place Thursday through Sunday in January, and the cost is $10 for non-members ages three and over. This fee will also include admission to the zoo.

The Alaska Zoo has thought of a few clever ways to keep visitors coming back for more. For 50 years, the zoo has been caring for sick and orphaned wildlife and offering conservation programs to protect the natural habitats of the many creatures that live in the state.

Guests will also find a Wolf and Tiger Encounter exhibit during the month of January. Both encounters take guests behind the scenes to a family that has been working with zookeepers for quite some time. Meet the wolf siblings and the tiger brothers and find out more about their daily routines. Both encounters will be held Wednesday and Friday through Sunday in January. The cost is $95 per person. (Please note that the encounter tickets are sold separately.)

• When: Various times throughout January
• Where: The Alaska Zoo, 4731 O'Malley Road, Anchorage, AK, 99507

Parlor in the Round

Parlor in the Round allows you to both enjoy a musical event and shape its direction at the same time. It's a chance to hear songwriters from all over the state. Musicians come from every type of background to talk about their influences and share their songs. This event focuses primarily on songwriters who will take their inspiration from one another and the audience. It's a fantastic way for attendees to discover talent while still being able to contribute their two cents.

• When: January 16
• Where: Wendy Williamson Auditorium, 2533 Providence Dr, Anchorage, AK 99508

Beethoven's Birthday Bash

Beethoven's Birthday Bash is a great way to celebrate the birthday of a musician while honoring their masterpieces and delight in the powerful instruments that bring the symphony to life. This bash includes both the famous works of Beethoven and his more experimental music. The latter is a little more light-hearted and whimsical, having derived from the folk songs of the day. Attendees can hear his Scottish Songs and Wellington's Sieg in new arrangements, with the musicians putting their own unique spin on the pieces. And of course, what better way to end a concert than with a slice of birthday cake?

• When: January 5
• Where: UAA Fine Arts Building, 3700 Alumni Dr, Anchorage, AK 99508

Anchorage, AK may not always seem like a metropolitan haven, but there's plenty to do if people know where to look. These events scratch the surface of the many local and citywide events throughout the largest city in Alaska. Simply attending is a great way to expose yourself to a new culture and to learn more about the natural world around you.