“The only 2026 new year’s resolution we’re getting behind: leave the house more.”
THE HIP LIFE ASIA
It’s been a long time coming that I admitted that new year’s resolutions do not work for me. If anything, maybe I’ll remember it for the first two weeks of January before ‘misplacing’ the list to the back of my mind. However, at this final attempt at creating a new year’s resolution list and sticking to it, I’ve decided to keep it (very short)—so it feels less daunting when I revisit it at the end of 2026 to review my progress. That is: go out more.
If you can relate, feel free to plagiarise the ‘list’. And to provide a booster first step, here’s a line-up of upcoming events happening in January of 2026, around the world. From tastefully curated art exhibitions and resplendent orchestra shows, to culture-focused festivals and an intimate New Year Vision Party with the girls, go with whatever feels right as a first step into your ‘Love Yourself’ era.
MALAYSIA
KL New Year Run
It seemed like running was all the craze in 2025, but if you have yet to join the bandwagon, what better way to start than on January 1st? This New Year’s Day, KL New Year Run is back for its 11th session and is looking to round up all who want to start their 2026 on a high note. Or with a runner’s high. Whether you are joining for the vibes or looking to flex your athletic prowess, register now and expect a day of lively cheers, upbeat music and an all-round positive time.
- Event type: Fitness and community
- Location: Dataran DBKL, Kuala Lumpur
- Date: Jan 1
- Vibe: Energetic, healthy and social
The Official Launch Of “I Lite U”
‘I Lite U’ (Innovative Lighting Infrastructure Towards Eco-Elegance & Urbanization) is a Malaysian government initiative introduced for the new year in alignment with the Visit Malaysia 2026 campaign, created with the aim to improve the capital city’s nightlife and boost tourism. The event will be launched by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and graced by the presence of Oscar-winning actress Tan Sri Michelle Yeoh in front of Pavilion Kuala Lumpur at 7.30pm. Expect a grand parade as well as live performances by well-known local artistes!
- Event type: Ceremonial launch event
- Location: Centre Court, Pavilion Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
- Date: Jan 3
- Vibe: Loud, chaotic, vibrant
Classical For Kids: The Magic Flute with The klpac Orchestra
Here’s a perfect way to introduce classical music to the little ones. In this interactive performance brought to you by klpac’s Orchestra, kids are invited to embark on a magical journey and experience an orchestra for themselves up close. The Magic Flute follows Prince Tamino and bird-catcher Papageno as they set out on a mission to rescue Pamina, the daughter of The Queen of the Night, from the evil Sarastro.
- Event type: Kids Orchestra Performance
- Location: klpac
- Dates: Jan 4
- Vibe: Musical, kid-friendly, animated
Amadeus Live at MPO
For fans of the multi-Academy Award winning 1984 motion picture, here’s a chance to experience it in a new light—that is, with a live in-sync full orchestra and choir, under the baton of Benjamin Pope. For the unfamiliar, Adadeus the motion picture is an adaptation from Peter Shaffer’s original stage play. It packs gore, destructive jealousy and other profound themes like divine genius vs. human mediocrity.
- Event type: Film orchestra
- Location: Dewan Filharmonik PETRONAS, PETRONAS Twin Towers, Kuala Lumpur City Centre, Malaysia
- Dates: Jan 10
- Vibe: Cinematic, grand, emotional
New Year Vision Party with @hereralegacy
This one’s for the ladies who are looking to set the tone for a successful, enriching year ahead. A big believer in moodboard-planning, astrology and manifestation? Join @hereralegacy for a sparkly evening of oracle cards, creating 2026 vision boards—the arts and crafts girlies will love this one—and bonding over cakes and mocktails.
- Event type: New Year Vision Board Party
- Location: Centrio Bangsar, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
- Date: Jan 11
- Vibe: soft feminine power, manifestation, astrology
FAMILY FUN DAY: Cirque de la Symphonie
In this hour-long family concert, Cirque de la Symphonie (Circus of the Symphony) returns with a slew of dazzling acts. Featuring aerialists, acrobats, jugglers and contortionists, the concert will be led by Tengku Irfan with breathtaking choreography accompanied by classical masterpieces. Name a better way to spend some quality family time.
- Event type: Family circus
- Location: Dewan Filharmonik PETRONAS, PETRONAS Twin Towers, Kuala Lumpur City Centre, Malaysia
- Dates: Jan 17
- Vibe: Thrilling, powerful, magical
Royal Langkawi International Regatta
Back for its 22nd event, Royal Langkawi International Regatta invites all boat enthusiasts for a thrilling week of world-class sailing, competitive racing and camaraderie in the breathtaking waters of Langkawi. Secure a spot to participate in this internationally celebrated event. Visit www.langkawiregatta.com to sign up and download the Notice of Race.
- Event type: Sailing regatta
- Location: Langkawi, Malaysia
- Dates: Jan 19 – Jan 24
- Vibe: Fierce, prestigious, teamwork
P. Ramlee’s Madu Tiga ‘Live’ in Concert
Don’t miss out on this first-of-such-presentations of a P. Ramlee film—Madu Tiga. This hit comedy starring one of Malaysia’s beloved legends will be played alongside vibrant live music from an orchestra. With the performance led by Ahmad Muriz Che Rose, audience members will be exposed to a new way of appreciating black-and-white motion picture.
- Event type: Film orchestra
- Location: Dewan Filharmonik PETRONAS, PETRONAS Twin Towers, Kuala Lumpur City Centre, Malaysia
- Dates: Jan 23 & Jan 24
- Vibe: Nostalgic, grand, cinematic
Putrajaya Open Day 2026
Putrajaya Open Day (POD) is an annual public event organized by Perbadanan Putrajaya (Putrajaya Corporation). It is a gathering between government agencies, private companies and community groups to share information, services and activities with the public. The event will house exhibitions, interactive zones, performances, presentations and stalls—promising a fun and informative experience for families, students, professionals and visitors of all ages.
- Event type: Public festival and exhibition
- Location: Persiaran Perdana, Presint 3, 62675 Putrajaya, Wilayah Persekutuan Putrajaya
- Dates: Jan 29 – Feb 1
- Vibe: Energetic, informative, family-friendly
DRT Show Malaysia
Sure, it still may be monsoon season at your local dive sites, but you know what that means? It is gearing-up season! Now back for its 16th year, the Diving, Resort and Travel (DRT) SHOW is hosting seminars, exhibitors and booths to help you plan for your diving expeditions and discover new products with live demonstrations. From diving gear to a scuba museum and lucky draws, Asia Pacific’s largest dive expo welcomes all ocean lovers and divers—experienced or new—to the scene.
- Event type: Diving expo
- Location: Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre (KLCC), Malaysia
- Dates: Jan 30 – Feb 1
- Vibe: Enthusiastic, community, energetic
More Than a Day as a Tiger: The Legacy of Haider Ali and Tipu Sultan of Mysore
As Tipu Sultan once said: it is better to live as a tiger for a day than as a sheep for a hundred years. In this landmark exhibition displaying prized works from one of India’s most remarkable dynasties, visitors are introduced to the rulers of Mysore (Haider Ali and his son Tipu Sultan)—a historic city in Karnataka, India. The exhibition delves into the symbolism, ideology and historical legacy that turned Tipu Sultan and Haider Ali into heroes of anti-colonial resistance who were later sidelined in their homeland.
- Event type: Artefact exhibition
- Location: Special Gallery 2, Islamic Arts Museum Malaysia
- Dates: until Mar 29
- Vibe: Historical, educational, cultural
Busana: Traditional Costumes of the Malay World Exhibition
Busana, which refers to the traditional attire of the Malay world, was rooted in Sanskrit and has shared cultural traditions spanning present-day Malaysia, Indonesia, Singapore, Brunei, southern Thailand and the Philippines. In this exhibition, the museum invites guests to explore the rich heritage and artistry of Malay attire—the product of migration and exchange resulting in a beautiful blend of foreign and local influences. Here, luxurious textiles and ornate accessories are on display, showcasing the sophistication of Malay costumes and identity.
- Event type: Cultural Exhibition
- Location: Islamic Arts Museum Malaysia
- Dates: until Apr 12
- Vibe: Educational, historical, visual
SINGAPORE
Singapore Art Week
Calling all art lovers! For ten whole days, Singapore’s biggest art event will host over 100 events that take place at museums, galleries, independent art spaces and public spaces, inviting the visual arts community to join in on enriching discussions, talks, walks and tours across the island and online. Let the SAW Shuttle Buses handle the logistics—they will be operating daily to take you to the main districts, so you won’t miss out on this chance to witness stunning exhibitions, eye-catching installations, experimental music and immersive experiences.
- Event type: Visual arts fair
- Location: All over Singapore
- Dates: Jan 22 – Jan 31
- Vibe: Social, vibrant, innovative, creative
ART SG
For its fourth rendition, ART SG is returning to Marina Bay Sands for Southeast Asia’s largest global contemporary art fair. Presented by Founding and Lead Partner UBS, the expo will feature world-class leading galleries from Asia-Pacific, Europe and the Americas. Expect brand new site-specific installations, thought-provoking talks and an exciting performance art and film programme curated by X Zhu-Nowell, Executive Director and Chief Curator of Rockbund Art Museum Shanghai. Check out https://artsg.com/ for a grab at the early bird tickets.
- Event type: Contemporary art fair
- Location: Marina Bay Sands, Singapore
- Dates: Jan 23 – Jan 25
- Vibe: Cultural, creative, social
OTHER COUNTRIES
Lux Helsinki
If you’re still looking to chase the winter magic, head over to the Lux Helsinki light art festival for an illuminating adventure. This year, the theme is ‘Stop Time!’ and featured works will be located in the heart of Helsinki, from Kansalaistori to Hietalahdentori, Old Church Park and Espa Stage. While the spectacular installations are available for viewing from 5PM to 10PM, several artworks can also be explored in the morning on January 8 to 9, from 7AM to 9AM.
- Event type: Light art festival
- Location: Helsinki, Finland
- Dates: Jan 6 – Jan 11
- Vibe: Surreal, lively, festive
Australian Open
Game for some world-class tennis and exhilarating sports entertainment? Kicking off the four annual Grand Slam tennis tournaments is The Australian Open, once again, at Melbourne Park. After two years of Jannik Sinner dominating the courts and lifting the historic Norman Brookes Challenge Cup, fans are anticipating four thrilling days of action between Grand Slam stars, emerging talents and Australian favourites who will feature among the 128-player men’s and women’s fields. Visit https://www.ticketmaster.com.au/ausopen for tickets.
- Event type: International tournament
- Location: Melbourne Park, Australia
- Dates: Jan 12 – Feb 1
- Vibe: Sunny, thrilling, community
Photo credit: VD Photography on Unsplash
Makar Sankranti
Pay a visit to India for a chance to experience Makar Sankranti, a Hindu festival that marks the entrance of the Sun into the astrological sign of Makara (Capricorn) and the beginning of the Sun’s northward journey (uttarayana). Makar Sankranti traditions vary in different areas, such as: kite-flying in Gujarat, preparing sweets with sesame seeds and jaggery in Maharashtra, lighting bonfires in Punjab and making rice dishes in Tamil Nadu. The holiday is significant for offerings to the Hindu Sun god, Surya, and for ritual bathing.
- Event type: Cultural festival
- Location: all over India
- Date: Jan 14
- Vibe: Vibrant, cultural, harmony
Dine Out Vancouver Festival
Dive into Vancouver’s culinary scene through Canada’s largest food and drink festival with experiences to delight the palate. Choose from curated fixed-price menus at over hundreds of Vancouver’s hottest restaurants and discover unique culinary events that span everything from sea foraging to dumpling fests. Mark your calendars for Season 24!
- Event type: Food and drink festival
- Location: Vancouver (and nearby cities), Canada
- Dates: Jan 21 – Feb 8
- Vibe: flavourful, bustling, diverse
Connections and Identity
Staffordshire-based artist and sculptor Peter Walker is known for his mastery in bronze and contemporary sculpture. In this showcase, he draws inspiration from human relationships and the meaning of existence. The outcome? Two large-scale interactive artworks drawing from light and sound that invites guests to join the contemplation. Identity features eight illuminated columns suspended within the Painted Hall, imitating DNA structures, while Connections is the artist’s personal interpretation of Michelangelo’s Creation of Adam.
- Event type: Solo art exhibition
- Location: Painted Hall, Old Royal Naval College, London
- Dates: until Jan 25
- Vibe: Reflective, immersive, inspiring
Venice Carnival 2026
Centered on the theme “Olympus – The Origins of Play,” this highly anticipated event celebrates the world-renowned sporting event through a concept that weaves together history, art, and sport, honoring the universal ideas of play and challenge. Drawing inspiration from mythology and the balance between body and mind, the theme also echoes the Venice of centuries ago, when Carnival transformed the city into a grand arena for contests, acrobatics, and displays of collective skill—an early reflection of the spirit that defines the modern Olympic Game.
- Event type: Grand masked festival
- Location: Venice, Italy
- Dates: Jan 31 – Feb 17
- Vibe: Vibrant, mythical, theatrical, historical
Bad Bunny — DeBí Tirar Más Fotos World Tour
Debí Tirar Más Fotos World Tour is the sixth concert tour by Bad Bunny—aka Spotify’s 2025 global top artist and 2026 Super Bowl headliner. Following the release of his sixth studio album, the Puerto Rican rapper will be gracing Latin America, Australia, Japan and having an extensive European leg before concluding in Brussels.
- Event type: Stadium concert
- Location: Chile, Peru, Colombia, Argentina, Brazil, Australia, Japan, Spain, Portugal, Germany, The Netherlands, United Kingdom, France, Sweden, Poland, Italy and Belgium
- Dates: until Jul 22
- Vibe: Cultural, celebrative, Latin pop
2026, Here We Come!
Now that we’ve rounded up a long list of events, exhibitions and festive gatherings, there’s no excuse now not to leave the unrelenting covers of your bed. Here’s to making the most out of January and gearing up to welcome the Year of the Horse—one that signifies energy, freedom and independence. As the saying goes: ‘A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.’
“New year, new experiences.”
THE HIP LIFE ASIA
For more itinerary fillers, here are some suggestions:
