January might be long, cold and a little grey – but it doesn’t have to be boring, Bristol is making sure of that. From comedy festivals and live music to foodie events and alpine-themed nights out, this blog is packed with things to do well beyond the first week of the year.
Whether you’re planning a winter city break, a spontaneous weekend away, or just need an excuse to get out of hibernation (we hear you!), here’s what’s on in Bristol this January.
Bristol Comedy Festival
15 – 31 January 2026 | Various venues, Bristol
January wouldn’t be complete without a laugh, and the Bristol Comedy Festival delivers exactly that. Running for two weeks, the festival brings together a brilliant mix of established names and rising stars across different venues throughout the city.
Taproom Re-Opening Weekend at Lost and Grounded Brewers
16 – 17 January 2026
Lost and Grounded are kicking off 2026 in style with a much-anticipated taproom re-opening weekend. Expect great beer, good vibes and a lively crowd as they throw open the doors again. Who said partying had to end in December?
Après-Ski Fest at Mendip Activity Centre
16 January – 27 February 2026 | Churchill
Bring a little alpine energy to your winter with the Après-Ski Fest at Mendip Activity Centre. This brand-new event combines skiing and snowboarding sessions with competitions, retro outfits, live music, mulled wine and alpine-inspired food.
Dry Jan Rave: Jumpin’ Jack Frost at Trinity Centre
18 January 2026
This Dry January rave is all about high-energy music, feel-good times and releasing some much-needed dopamine in the middle of winter.
The Hangover – Film & Wine Tasting at Averys Wine Merchants
22 January 2026
Part of Averys’ Vintage Screenings series, this unique event pairs a screening of The Hangover with carefully selected wines – all set within their atmospheric historic wine cellar.
Old Market Assembly 10th Birthday Party
23 January 2026 | Old Market Assembly, Bristol
Old Market Assembly celebrates a decade of great music, food and community with a birthday party featuring local favourites The Bristol Hornstars.
Friday Night Comedy Club at The Gaffe
Throughout January | The Gaffe, Bristol
Kick off your weekends with top-tier comedy at The Gaffe, Bristol’s newest comedy club. Expect sharp stand-up, rotating line-ups and a lively crowd every Friday night.
Side Dish Festival
26 January – 8 February 2026 | Various venues, Bristol
Side Dish pairs surprise live comedy with some of Bristol’s best food spots, creating intimate and entertaining events across the city.
Bristol Veganuary Fest
31 January 2026
Round off the month with Bristol Veganuary Fest, showcasing independent traders, street food, artisan coffee, handmade crafts and plenty of plant-based inspiration.
Planning a January Bristol Break?
January is one of the best times to experience Bristol – fewer crowds, great events, and plenty going on. If you’re thinking about a city break, now’s the perfect time to book.
✨ Exclusive Offer ✨
If you book directly through our website this month and use the code URBAN20, you’ll get 20% off all bookings this year – your stay doesn’t even need to be in January.
Whether you’re visiting for comedy, culture, food or just a change of scenery, we’ll make sure your Bristol stay is stylish, comfortable and perfectly located.
Published: 12.01.26 by Phoebe Clutton
