Looking to fill a couple hours of your day while in the South Bay? With so many offerings in the area, we’ve curated five of the top events this month so you don’t have to. Less researching and more enjoying your time in the area. Enjoy!
Featured Photo: Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, courtesy of Jeremy Daniel

Into America’s Wild
January 1
Kick off a new year with an IMAX experience at The Tech Interactive which reopened with a series of films, including a peek at the wonders of America’s natural beauty, with narration by Morgan Freeman.
More info: thetech.org

The Winter Ice Rink
THRU January 2, 2022
Of course an ice rink in the heart of Silicon Valley combines skating and tech in events such as Robots on Ice, but other events like Learn to Curl helps expand the sport of ice skating beyond its user base.
More info: holidayicerink.com

Kristi Yamaguchi Downtown Ice
THRU January 9, 2022
Celebrate the season by skating around a shaped ice rink and a 32 palm tree track, or join for one of the special events.
More info: bayareaiceskating.com

Really Really Free Market!
January 9
This monthly event involves zero money, zero trades and zero capitalism. Its deeply Santa Cruz soul is pure love: All are welcome to give away clothes, toys, art supplies, instruments, books, zines and more, and to take home new-to-you items. “We all have something to share with each other,” organizers say, “and to receive with gratitude is also a gift. This gathering is not about the ‘stuff’ we give and take, but more about how we can freely give and receive from each other.”
More info: subrosaproject.org

The Simon and Garfunkel Story
January 12
For one night only, experience the humble beginnings of Tom & Jerry and the folk-pop duo that became ‘60’s legends in an immersive concert-theater show.
More info: broadwaysanjose.com

Santa Cruz Warriors vs. Stockton Kings
January 17
The Golden State Warriors dynasty and its sparkling new Chase Center are something to behold. But so are the Wave City Warriors and their energizing and wildly entertaining arena — at a fraction of the price. Much like minor league baseball, the action hits closer, the promotions are amped up and the excitement feels more intimate.
More info: santacruz.gleague.nba.com

Charlie and the Chocolate Factory
January 18
Charlie Bucket and four other golden ticket holders step into the amazing world of Willy Wonka as created by Roald Dahl, through January 23.
More info: charlieontour.com

Jamestown Revival at Catalyst Club
January 19
Jamestown Revival, aka childhood pals Zach Chance and Jonathan Clay, translate everyday life into an avalanche of harmonies that blend Southern country, Americana and Western. Indie quartet Mipso and singer-songwriter Robert Ellis also perform.
More info: catalystclub.com

Joan Osborne at Rio Theatre
January 21
Osborne calls her 10th album, Trouble and Strife, her response to “the crazy, chaotic times we’re living in, a recognition of the important role music has to play in this moment.” The seven-time Grammy nominee adds another thought, and one she embodies: “Music has a unique ability to re-energize people and allow us to continue to hang on to that sense of joy of being alive.”
More info: riotheatre.com
Looking for more things to do in the area?
Visit our What to Do in Northern California page!