What to Do in Groningen in January?
Dive into our list of top picks of events to attend and things to do in the new year.
2 January - Behind the Scenes Tour (7+)
Discover the hidden corners of the Forum with this exciting behind-the-scenes tour, perfect for kids aged 7 and up. Find out where returned books go, what the security team sees, and even sit in the director’s chair. The tour runs from 11:00 to 12:00, and tickets are available for children only—sorry, adults! Meet at the yellow desk on the ground floor to begin your adventure. Don’t miss this chance to uncover the Forum’s best-kept secrets!
3 January - Classic Hits in Concert
Celebrate timeless music at Classic Hits in Concert, held at SPOT/De Oosterpoort in Groningen. A band of over 20 talented musicians brings the Top 2000 to life with unforgettable pop, rock, and soul classics, from ABBA to Led Zeppelin and Prince to Tina Turner. With seven vocalists, dynamic performances, and captivating visuals, this event promises sing-alongs, surprises, and a grand finale you won’t want to miss! Tickets are available now.
3 - 4 January - Carnivale Festival at Tuin in de Stad
Step into a magical world at Carnivale, a cozy festival filled with circus, humour, and theatre in a beautifully lit garden in Groningen’s Westpark. During the day, enjoy family-friendly performances, interactive activities, and a final circus show. In the evening, the garden transforms into a sparkling wonderland, featuring unique acts and a theatre show for adults. Don’t miss this enchanting experience!
8 January - Celebrating David Bowie in Groningen
Relive the epic music of David Bowie with Celebrating David Bowie, a world-class tribute featuring Bowie’s friends, former band members, and renowned musicians. The concert will showcase hits like Space Oddity, Heroes, and Let’s Dance, with a focus on his Ziggy Stardust era, Berlin trilogy, and later works. Don’t miss this special performance at SPOT/De Oosterpoort, celebrating the legacy of one of music’s greatest icons.
8 January - Laser Design Workshop
Design your own bold statement earrings at the Laser Design Workshop! Learn to use a graphic design program and watch your creations come to life with a laser cutter. Join us on Wednesday, January 8, from 19:30 to 21:30 at Smartlab. The workshop costs €15.00—don’t miss this chance to craft your unique accessory!
9 January - Paganfest 2025 in Groningen
After a decade-long hiatus, Paganfest returns with its strongest lineup yet, featuring Alestorm, Ensiferum, Tyr, Heidevolk, and Elvenking. This legendary pagan and folk metal tour brings its explosive energy to Groningen, showcasing brand-new live material from all five bands. Join the celebration and “drink from a horn” at this epic event!
15-18 January - Eurosonic Noorderslag (ESNS)
ESNS returns to Groningen, showcasing Europe's best emerging talent across multiple venues. This year’s lineup includes acts like Antonia Vai, Brimheim, and Mezzosangue, offering a diverse mix of music styles. With live performances, insightful panels, and networking opportunities, it’s the perfect event for music enthusiasts and industry professionals alike. Tickets and passes are available now on the ESNS website!
22 January - AI Music Workshop: Create Your Own Song
Explore the world of artificial intelligence and learn how to make music using the Suno program in this hands-on workshop. Discover how AI works, experiment with prompts, and create your own song, which you can later access via a QR code. Join the session at Smartlab.
23-26 January - Noorder Rondtochten 2025
Experience the fourth edition of the Noorder Rondtochten, a challenging 135-kilometer walking event inspired by the legendary skating classic, De Noorder Rondritten. Spanning four days, participants traverse the winter landscapes of Groningen, with stops in Appingedam, Uithuizen, Winsum, and Zoutkamp. This year’s theme, Winterspelen, transforms the route into a series of winter sports-inspired hotspots, complete with festive music, warm treats, and activities. Registration is open until December 31, 2024, or until the 1000-participant limit is reached—don’t miss this iconic winter adventure!
25 January - Turfy Gang at SPOT/De Oosterpoort
Join Turfy Gang, the Dutch student pop group known for their relatable lyrics and infectious energy, as they take the stage in Groningen. With hits like Buren, Je Voelt Ons, and Nieuwe Dag, this Popodium Tour promises an electrifying live performance featuring their signature positive vibes. Don’t miss this chance to experience their unique sound and expanded musical show!
25 January - Pynarello
Dive into a unique musical journey with Pynarello’s Oerknal concert, inspired by Strauss’ Also Sprach Zarathustra. This performance blends classical, jazz, and folk influences with new compositions by Julian Schneemann, Kika Sprangers, and Geerten Feller, alongside live improvisations by Simone Bottasso and Sinan Arat. Visual artist Vincent Rang adds a stunning visual dimension, creating a mesmerizing universe of images in real-time. Don’t miss this groundbreaking fusion of sound and art!
31 January - Poetry Per Tutti at Forum Groningen
Celebrate the fifth edition of Poetry Per Tutti during Poetry Week at Forum Groningen. Featuring a stellar lineup of poets, spoken word artists, and musicians, including P.C. Hooft Prize winner Astrid Lampe, singer-songwriter Gerson Main, and alternative band Geestdrift, this evening promises a captivating blend of creativity and performance. Join the event at the Rabo Studio from 20:00 to 22:45—tickets are €17.50 and available now!
