No Winter Blues! January 2026 | Explore Warren

 

No Winter Blues! January 2026

“Winter is not a season, it’s a celebration.” - Anamika Mishra, author and holistic life coach

No winter blues here! Worthy of celebration is White Lake in Hardwick Township, depicted in our cover photo, taken on New Year’s Day 2026 by Warren County Park Naturalist Jennifer Correa-Kruegel. She snapped this prior to leading a group hike, which she conducts regularly, both here and on other county properties. We see the Washington Borough Green Team is leading group hikes, too! Nature, fresh air and a bit of exercise is a great way to celebrate winter!

If you prefer to stay indoors, there is plenty on tap to keep you entertained! Centenary Stage Company’s Winter THAW series kicks off tomorrow; Steve Forbert (a "True American Treasure") performs at Roy’s Hall; the Bolshoi Cabaret presents “Wintry Magic” at Rutherfurd Hall. That’s just this weekend!

Read on for additional activities! Comedy, instructional classes and crafts, and live music, to name a few.

Happy New Year and Happy Wanderings!

Coming Up: 

Quilting and Needle Art Invitational presented by WC ARTS

Friday, January 16, 2026 to Friday, January 23, 2026
Saturday, January 24, 2026 to Saturday, January 31, 2026
The work of artist Clair Rohloff is on display in the Oxford Municipal Gallery January 3 - February 28. This exhibit will feature over 30 quilts, garments such as jackets, vests, purses and thread painting

Winter THAW Music Festival featuring Chris Funk

Thursday, January 8, 2026 - 7:00pm
Centenary opens its Winter THAW with Chris Funk and Redefining Wonder, an engaging and visceral multimedia experience that has audiences talking and scratching their heads. This magic show features live music with a violin concerto and a guitar loop recorded live on stage, putting this show into a league of its own.

"Fun Friday" in the Village of Hope

Friday, January 9, 2026 -
4:00pm to 7:00pm
The Hope Creative Team encourages you spend the evening in the village shopping, supporting local eateries, playing games, and socializing! The Community Center will have "good luck" soup, hot chocolate and tea. January features the Warren County Pollinator Protectors hosts a free workshop on starting your own winter seed sowing project.

Stranger Things Trivia Night at Man Skirt Brewing

Friday, January 9, 2026 - 7:00pm
Think you know your Hawkins lore? Put your Stranger Things knowledge to the test. No Demogorgons, just bragging rights. Step into the Upside Down (aka the brewery) for an epic Stranger Things Trivia Night!

Next Stop Comedy at Invertase Brewing

Friday, January 9, 2026 - 8:00pmFriday, February 13, 2026 - 8:00pmFriday, March 13, 2026 - 8:00pm
Next Stop Comedy brings the best comedians, with new lineups every time, straight to your neighborhood for an unforgettable night of laughter! These shows feature top-tier talent from across the country, delivering high-energy performances in intimate, local venues.

Steve Forbert, "A True American Treasure" at Roy's Hall

Friday, January 9, 2026 - 8:00pm
A true American treasure, Steve Forbert is back at Roy's Hall following his 21st album, Daylight Savings Time. His gift for finding the deeper meaning and magic within the spectrum of everyday moments, accompanies his abundant melodic and poetic enchantment.

Phillipsburg Indoor Winter Market

Saturday, January 10, 2026 -
10:00am to 1:00pm
Saturday, January 24, 2026 - 10:00amSaturday, February 14, 2026 - 10:00amSaturday, February 28, 2026 - 10:00am
The Phillipsburg Farmers Market has moved indoors for the winter, open the 2nd and 4th Saturday from January through April, each with a theme. Customers can continue to buy their favorite fresh and local foods while supporting community vendors.

Fly Tying Classes at Lost Goods and Gear

Saturday, January 10, 2026 -
3:30pm to 5:30pm
Tuesday, January 13, 2026 - 5:30pmSunday, January 18, 2026 - 3:00pmTuesday, January 20, 2026 - 5:30pmTuesday, January 27, 2026 - 5:30pmSaturday, January 31, 2026 - 3:30pm
These classes are for suitable for beginner and seasoned tying pros and emphasize the Elk/Deer Hair Caddis. The first session January 10 is free and a reservation is needed by phone or talk to John in person. Space is limited.

"The Librarians," a documentary film benefiting Warren County Libraries

Saturday, January 10, 2026 - 6:30pm
In this screening to support the Warren County Libraries, librarians emerge as first responders in the fight for democracy and our First Amendment rights. 

The Bolshoi Cabaret presents Wintry Magic at Rutherfurd Hall

Sunday, January 11, 2026 - 3:00pm
Come for an afternoon of music, storytelling, and seasonal enchantment at Rutherfurd Hall with The Bolshoi Cabaret.

The Lounge at Czig Meister Brewing

Friday, January 16, 2026 -
9:00pm to 11:59pm
Listen up, pals. The Lounge at Czig Meister is throwing a big shindig to mark the day they outlawed the giggle water. Only 110 tickets are up for grabs so get your today!

Winter THAW Music Festival featuring Six One Five Collective

Saturday, January 17, 2026 - 8:00pm
The second installment of CSC's Winter THAW is the Six One Five Collective, in the spirit of the Highwaymen and Little Big Town, a Grammy-nominated, award-winning group of artists that has blossomed into one of Music City's best. This is collaborative effort and steeped in the musical mix of Country, Americana, and Pop. Their sound is an undeniable wall of distinctive harmonies and voices.

Winter Yoga at Rutherfurd Hall

Sunday, January 18, 2026 - 9:00am
Led by Amanda from The Petite Yogi, recharge with a mid-winter energizing yoga flow in the Chapel at Rutherfurd Hall. This session is designed to spark new habits, focus, and vitality.

Ultimate Cooking and Baking Showdown at Brook Hollow Winery

Saturday, January 24, 2026 -
12:00pm to 3:00pm
Two competitions, one day at Brook Hollow for the ultimate cooking and baking showdown. Prizes will be awarded to the winners and space is limited. Preregister today!

Winter Deals in Hackettstown

Saturday, January 24, 2026 -
12:00pm to 5:00pm
Bundle up for a brisk stroll through the Hackettstown Business District and shop at a local business!

Winter Wine Barrel Tasting Experience at Alba Vineyard

Saturday, January 24, 2026 -
1:00pm to 3:00pm
Sunday, January 25, 2026 -
1:00pm to 3:00pm
Saturday, January 31, 2026 - 1:00pmSunday, February 1, 2026 - 1:00pm
Alba invites everyone to partake in the 2nd annual Winter Wine Tasting, an intimate tour behind the scenes with a chance to sip wines straight from the barrel. Advanced reservations required.

Resin and Glass Class at The Bloomin' Cottage

Saturday, January 24, 2026 -
2:00pm to 3:30pm
Create a take home keep sake framed snowman, beach scene or tree at The Bloomin' Cottage. Kids 10 and up are welcome with a parent present. 

Wine Making Series at Brook Hollow Winery

Sunday, January 25, 2026 - 1:00pmSunday, February 15, 2026 - 1:00pmSunday, February 22, 2026 - 1:00pmSunday, March 22, 2026 - 1:00pm
Have you have ever wanted to try your hand at making wine but were too intimidated by the entire process? Now is the time to throw all those fears right out of the window and sign up for our Wine Making Course, taught by Paul Ritter, owner/vintner of Brook Hollow Winery and Event Facility with four in-house classes. Program includes four classes starting Sept. 21 (Brook Hollow said, "Don’t worry—if you miss one, we’ve got you covered!")

Winter THAW Music Festival featuring Big Beat Band

Sunday, January 25, 2026 - 2:00pm
The final part of the Winter THAW includes Big Beat Band, with feel good sounds reminiscent of Thad Jones-Mel Lewis Orchestra with other notable influences, like Stevie Wonder, Donny Hathaway, Thundercat, and Jill Scott.

Winter Hiking Essentials and Hike at Pequest Trout Hatchery

Thursday, January 29, 2026 -
12:00pm to 3:00pm
Join the team at the Pequest Natural Resource Education Center for a fun, hands-on class all about hiking safely and comfortably in winter conditions. The program includes both classroom instruction and time out on the trails, so be sure to dress for the weather and come ready to explore.

Grey Man Group at Invertase Brewing Co.

Saturday, January 31, 2026 - 4:00pm
You're invited to Invertase for a free performance by Grey Man Group, featuring musical legends Jimmy Leahey, Scott Ward, Don Plowman and Eric Troyer!
Entertainment: 

Brook Hollow Live Music - January 2026

Friday, January 9, 2026Sunday, January 11, 2026Friday, January 16, 2026Saturday, January 17, 2026Sunday, January 18, 2026Friday, January 23, 2026Saturday, January 24, 2026Sunday, January 25, 2026Friday, January 30, 2026Saturday, January 31, 2026
Enjoy Brook Hollow's weekend live music with Rich Ortiz 1/2; John Cain 1/3; Rich Ortiz 1/4; OPEN MIC NIGHT 1/9; Water Street 1/10; Stan and Elise 1/11; Katy Gerhold 1/16; Ally Brown 1/17; John Cain 1/18; OPEN MIC NIGHT 1/23; Water Street 1/24;
2 Way Street 1/25; Jake Roggenkamp 1/30; Phil Carollo (Sage) 1/31.

Live Music 2026 at Panther Pub

Friday, January 9, 2026 - 8:00pmFriday, January 16, 2026 - 8:00pmFriday, January 23, 2026 - 8:00pmFriday, January 30, 2026 - 8:00pm
Panther Pub features live music every weekend featuring Cardon Raquet 1/2; Zach & Cat 1/9; Shakey Solo 1/16; Maribyrd Duo 1/23; John Cain 1/30.

Brass Rail Music Line Up 2026

Saturday, January 10, 2026 - 8:30pmSaturday, January 17, 2026 - 8:00pmSaturday, January 24, 2026 - 8:30pmSaturday, January 31, 2026 - 8:30pm
February brings great tunes to Brass Rail with Harmony Garage Band 1/10; Jer z Girls 1/17; Liquid Garden 1/24; Better Off Now 1/31.
Continuing: 

Friday Night Meal Deal at Brook Hollow Winery

Friday, January 9, 2026 - 6:00pmFriday, January 16, 2026 - 6:00pmFriday, January 23, 2026 - 6:00pmFriday, January 30, 2026 - 6:00pmFriday, February 6, 2026 - 6:00pm
Back by popular demand! Brook Hollow invites you to a Friday night Meal Deal, perfectly paired with live music and extended happy hour specials. Talk about the ultimate pairing for your night out! Tickets are limited and must be purchased in advance.

Walk the Halls Where History Happened @ Rutherfurd Hall

Wednesday, January 21, 2026 - 11:00am
Join Historian of Rutherfurd Hall, Joan Leckie Salvas, and a team of knowledgeable docents for an immersive experience that will transport you through the grand rooms, rich stories, and remarkable legacy of the Rutherfurd family - and their impact on local and national history. Reserve your spot by emailing jsalvas@aes.k12.nj.us
Community Corner: 

Heartsaver CPR training at Rutherfurd Hall

Tuesday, January 13, 2026 -
6:00pm to 9:00pm
Heartsaver CPR provides students the highest quality training in the lifesaving skills of CPR, and first aid training. This course empowers students to act with confidence in the event of an emergency at work, home, or in the community.

The Heritage Museum at Meadow Breeze Park

Sunday, January 18, 2026 - 1:00pm
The Heritage Museum at Meadow Breeze Park is now open. Learn about Warren County's fascinating history, from its transportation history, including the Morris Canal, to the Oxford Furnace, the Edison Factory, and the piano and organ industry that was prevalent in Washington Borough.
Plan Ahead: 

Aloha in the Snow at Brook Hollow Winery

Saturday, February 7, 2026 -
5:00pm to 8:00pm
Shake off the winter chill and step into paradise at Brook Hollow Winery & Event Facility’s Winter Luau! Trade snow boots for grass skirts and warm up with a night full of tropical fun—limbo contests, hula hoops, coconut games, island vibes, and nonstop entertainment! This event is limited to the first 100 people who purchase tickets.

3rd Annual Polar Plunge at Swayze Mill Park

Saturday, February 21, 2026 - 9:30am
Join the HVFD fund raiser at Swazye Mill Park for the 3rd annual first Polar Bear Plunge. There'll be hot drinks and food and a bonfire.

Please be advised that we do our best to make sure the information in this message is accurate at the time it is sent. But things happen, plans change, weather can be fickle... you get the idea. Please click on the links provided to other websites to obtain further details and updates.

We hope you've found this to be informative, and now feel inspired to come out and explore Warren County!

Explore Warren County Tourism Partnership
C/o Warren County Public Information Dept.
tourism@co.warren.nj.us | ExploreWarren.org
165 County Route 519 South - Belvidere, NJ 07823
908-475-6580 / 800-554-8540

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Coming Up: 

Quilting and Needle Art Invitational presented by WC ARTS

Friday, January 16, 2026 to Friday, January 23, 2026
Saturday, January 24, 2026 to Saturday, January 31, 2026

The work of artist Clair Rohloff is on display in the Oxford Municipal Gallery January 3 - February 28. This exhibit will feature over 30 quilts, garments such as jackets, vests, purses and thread painting

Winter THAW Music Festival featuring Chris Funk

Centenary opens its Winter THAW with Chris Funk and Redefining Wonder, an engaging and visceral multimedia experience that has audiences talking and scratching their heads. This magic show features live music with a violin concerto and a guitar loop recorded live on stage, putting this show into a league of its own.

"Fun Friday" in the Village of Hope

Friday, January 9, 2026 -
4:00pm to 7:00pm

The Hope Creative Team encourages you spend the evening in the village shopping, supporting local eateries, playing games, and socializing! The Community Center will have "good luck" soup, hot chocolate and tea. January features the Warren County Pollinator Protectors hosts a free workshop on starting your own winter seed sowing project.

Stranger Things Trivia Night at Man Skirt Brewing

Friday, January 9, 2026 - 7:00pm

Think you know your Hawkins lore? Put your Stranger Things knowledge to the test. No Demogorgons, just bragging rights. Step into the Upside Down (aka the brewery) for an epic Stranger Things Trivia Night!

Next Stop Comedy at Invertase Brewing

Friday, January 9, 2026 - 8:00pm
Friday, February 13, 2026 - 8:00pm
Friday, March 13, 2026 - 8:00pm

Next Stop Comedy brings the best comedians, with new lineups every time, straight to your neighborhood for an unforgettable night of laughter! These shows feature top-tier talent from across the country, delivering high-energy performances in intimate, local venues.

Steve Forbert, "A True American Treasure" at Roy's Hall

Friday, January 9, 2026 - 8:00pm

A true American treasure, Steve Forbert is back at Roy's Hall following his 21st album, Daylight Savings Time. His gift for finding the deeper meaning and magic within the spectrum of everyday moments, accompanies his abundant melodic and poetic enchantment.

Phillipsburg Indoor Winter Market

Saturday, January 10, 2026 -
10:00am to 1:00pm
Saturday, January 24, 2026 - 10:00am
Saturday, February 14, 2026 - 10:00am
Saturday, February 28, 2026 - 10:00am

The Phillipsburg Farmers Market has moved indoors for the winter, open the 2nd and 4th Saturday from January through April, each with a theme. Customers can continue to buy their favorite fresh and local foods while supporting community vendors.

Fly Tying Classes at Lost Goods and Gear

Saturday, January 10, 2026 -
3:30pm to 5:30pm
Tuesday, January 13, 2026 - 5:30pm
Sunday, January 18, 2026 - 3:00pm
Tuesday, January 20, 2026 - 5:30pm
Tuesday, January 27, 2026 - 5:30pm
Saturday, January 31, 2026 - 3:30pm

These classes are for suitable for beginner and seasoned tying pros and emphasize the Elk/Deer Hair Caddis. The first session January 10 is free and a reservation is needed by phone or talk to John in person. Space is limited.

The Lounge at Czig Meister Brewing

Friday, January 16, 2026 -
9:00pm to 11:59pm

Listen up, pals. The Lounge at Czig Meister is throwing a big shindig to mark the day they outlawed the giggle water. Only 110 tickets are up for grabs so get your today!

Winter THAW Music Festival featuring Six One Five Collective

Saturday, January 17, 2026 - 8:00pm

The second installment of CSC's Winter THAW is the Six One Five Collective, in the spirit of the Highwaymen and Little Big Town, a Grammy-nominated, award-winning group of artists that has blossomed into one of Music City's best. This is collaborative effort and steeped in the musical mix of Country, Americana, and Pop. Their sound is an undeniable wall of distinctive harmonies and voices.

Winter Yoga at Rutherfurd Hall

Sunday, January 18, 2026 - 9:00am

Led by Amanda from The Petite Yogi, recharge with a mid-winter energizing yoga flow in the Chapel at Rutherfurd Hall. This session is designed to spark new habits, focus, and vitality.

Winter Deals in Hackettstown

Saturday, January 24, 2026 -
12:00pm to 5:00pm

Bundle up for a brisk stroll through the Hackettstown Business District and shop at a local business!

Winter Wine Barrel Tasting Experience at Alba Vineyard

Saturday, January 24, 2026 -
1:00pm to 3:00pm
Sunday, January 25, 2026 -
1:00pm to 3:00pm
Saturday, January 31, 2026 - 1:00pm
Sunday, February 1, 2026 - 1:00pm

Alba invites everyone to partake in the 2nd annual Winter Wine Tasting, an intimate tour behind the scenes with a chance to sip wines straight from the barrel. Advanced reservations required.

Wine Making Series at Brook Hollow Winery

Sunday, January 25, 2026 - 1:00pm
Sunday, February 15, 2026 - 1:00pm
Sunday, February 22, 2026 - 1:00pm
Sunday, March 22, 2026 - 1:00pm

Have you have ever wanted to try your hand at making wine but were too intimidated by the entire process? Now is the time to throw all those fears right out of the window and sign up for our Wine Making Course, taught by Paul Ritter, owner/vintner of Brook Hollow Winery and Event Facility with four in-house classes. Program includes four classes starting Sept. 21 (Brook Hollow said, "Don’t worry—if you miss one, we’ve got you covered!")

Winter THAW Music Festival featuring Big Beat Band

Sunday, January 25, 2026 - 2:00pm

The final part of the Winter THAW includes Big Beat Band, with feel good sounds reminiscent of Thad Jones-Mel Lewis Orchestra with other notable influences, like Stevie Wonder, Donny Hathaway, Thundercat, and Jill Scott.

Winter Hiking Essentials and Hike at Pequest Trout Hatchery

Thursday, January 29, 2026 -
12:00pm to 3:00pm

Join the team at the Pequest Natural Resource Education Center for a fun, hands-on class all about hiking safely and comfortably in winter conditions. The program includes both classroom instruction and time out on the trails, so be sure to dress for the weather and come ready to explore.

Grey Man Group at Invertase Brewing Co.

Saturday, January 31, 2026 - 4:00pm

You're invited to Invertase for a free performance by Grey Man Group, featuring musical legends Jimmy Leahey, Scott Ward, Don Plowman and Eric Troyer!

 
Entertainment: 

Brook Hollow Live Music - January 2026

Sunday, January 11, 2026
Friday, January 16, 2026
Saturday, January 17, 2026
Sunday, January 18, 2026
Friday, January 23, 2026
Saturday, January 24, 2026
Sunday, January 25, 2026
Friday, January 30, 2026
Saturday, January 31, 2026

Enjoy Brook Hollow's weekend live music with Rich Ortiz 1/2; John Cain 1/3; Rich Ortiz 1/4; OPEN MIC NIGHT 1/9; Water Street 1/10; Stan and Elise 1/11; Katy Gerhold 1/16; Ally Brown 1/17; John Cain 1/18; OPEN MIC NIGHT 1/23; Water Street 1/24;
2 Way Street 1/25; Jake Roggenkamp 1/30; Phil Carollo (Sage) 1/31.

Live Music 2026 at Panther Pub

Friday, January 9, 2026 - 8:00pm
Friday, January 16, 2026 - 8:00pm
Friday, January 23, 2026 - 8:00pm
Friday, January 30, 2026 - 8:00pm

Panther Pub features live music every weekend featuring Cardon Raquet 1/2; Zach & Cat 1/9; Shakey Solo 1/16; Maribyrd Duo 1/23; John Cain 1/30.

Brass Rail Music Line Up 2026

Saturday, January 10, 2026 - 8:30pm
Saturday, January 17, 2026 - 8:00pm
Saturday, January 24, 2026 - 8:30pm
Saturday, January 31, 2026 - 8:30pm

February brings great tunes to Brass Rail with Harmony Garage Band 1/10; Jer z Girls 1/17; Liquid Garden 1/24; Better Off Now 1/31.

 
Continuing: 

Friday Night Meal Deal at Brook Hollow Winery

Friday, January 9, 2026 - 6:00pm
Friday, January 16, 2026 - 6:00pm
Friday, January 23, 2026 - 6:00pm
Friday, January 30, 2026 - 6:00pm
Friday, February 6, 2026 - 6:00pm

Back by popular demand! Brook Hollow invites you to a Friday night Meal Deal, perfectly paired with live music and extended happy hour specials. Talk about the ultimate pairing for your night out! Tickets are limited and must be purchased in advance.

Walk the Halls Where History Happened @ Rutherfurd Hall

Wednesday, January 21, 2026 - 11:00am

Join Historian of Rutherfurd Hall, Joan Leckie Salvas, and a team of knowledgeable docents for an immersive experience that will transport you through the grand rooms, rich stories, and remarkable legacy of the Rutherfurd family - and their impact on local and national history. Reserve your spot by emailing jsalvas@aes.k12.nj.us

 
Community Corner: 

Heartsaver CPR training at Rutherfurd Hall

Tuesday, January 13, 2026 -
6:00pm to 9:00pm

Heartsaver CPR provides students the highest quality training in the lifesaving skills of CPR, and first aid training. This course empowers students to act with confidence in the event of an emergency at work, home, or in the community.

The Heritage Museum at Meadow Breeze Park

Sunday, January 18, 2026 - 1:00pm

The Heritage Museum at Meadow Breeze Park is now open. Learn about Warren County's fascinating history, from its transportation history, including the Morris Canal, to the Oxford Furnace, the Edison Factory, and the piano and organ industry that was prevalent in Washington Borough.

 
Plan Ahead: 

Aloha in the Snow at Brook Hollow Winery

Saturday, February 7, 2026 -
5:00pm to 8:00pm

Shake off the winter chill and step into paradise at Brook Hollow Winery & Event Facility’s Winter Luau! Trade snow boots for grass skirts and warm up with a night full of tropical fun—limbo contests, hula hoops, coconut games, island vibes, and nonstop entertainment! This event is limited to the first 100 people who purchase tickets.