January in Otley is anything but quiet. From big-screen music history and world-class ballet to belly-laugh stand-up, live folk, and a couple of very good reasons to look after your gut, the town is easing into the new year with style. Whether you fancy fermenty fizz, Italian wine, a proper film night, or live music in a cosy pub, there’s plenty happening to get you out of the house and into something good.
The Night Dylan Became Dylan
Date: Thursday, January 8, 2026
Venue: Otley Courthouse
A scruffy 19-year-old turns up in New York with a guitar and a chip on his shoulder, and music history is never the same again. A Complete Unknown charts Bob Dylan’s rapid rise through the folk scene, the relationships that shaped him, and the moment he stopped being just another talented kid with a harmonica. Gritty, atmospheric, and made for the big screen.
Fizz for Your Guts (And Your Curiosity)
Date: Saturday, January 10, 2026
Venue: Functional Drinks Club
Part tasting, part gentle education, this session takes you on a tour of eight different kombuchas spanning a range of brands, styles, and flavours. Along the way you’ll learn how fermented drinks can support gut health and what small, realistic changes might actually help. Relaxed, social, and surprisingly enlightening. There’s a second session later in the month (January 24) if you miss this one.
Sugarplums, Snow and Old-School Magic
Date: Sunday, January 11, 2026
Venue: Otley Courthouse
Peter Wright’s much-loved Nutcracker has been enchanting audiences for decades, and this recorded performance from the Royal Opera House captures it at its best. Expect sumptuous period designs, spellbinding stage effects, and Tchaikovsky’s iconic score, all coming together in a timeless ballet that still feels magical for audiences of all ages.
Italy, One Glass at a Time
Date: Wednesday, January 14, 2026
Venue: Tapas & Tunes x Chez Vin
Two brilliant Otley businesses join forces for a night that’s tailor-made for food and wine lovers. This Italian-themed pairing sees five carefully chosen wines matched with five complementary dishes, with insight along the way into what makes the combinations work. Unhurried, sociable, and a proper treat for the senses.
Laughs for the End of Your Tether
Date: Saturday, January 17, 2026
Venue: Otley Courthouse
Sam Avery returns to Otley with Thunderstorm, a high-energy blast of stand-up that takes aim at the chaos of modern life. From parenting mishaps and online nonsense to culture wars and political absurdity, Avery’s punchy, fast-paced style keeps the laughs coming thick and fast. Expect sharp observations, big laughs, and very little mercy.
Songs, Stories and Serious Pedigree
Date: Friday, January 23, 2026
Venue: Black Horse, Otley
Otley Folk Festival brings a cracking double bill to the Black Horse. Belfast singer-songwriter Andy White delivers thoughtful, literate songs shaped by decades in music, while opening act Plumhall blend rich harmonies with storytelling rooted firmly in West Yorkshire. An intimate night of quality songwriting in one of Otley’s best-loved pubs.
Fill Your Basket the Good Way
Date: Sunday, January 25, 2026
Venue: Market Place, Otley
Otley Farmers’ Market returns with its monthly showcase of the region’s best produce. From artisan bread and farmhouse cheeses to seasonal fruit, veg, jams, and chutneys, it’s the ideal place to shop local and eat well. Open from 9am to 1pm, and always worth a wander.
Made by Hand, Bought with Love
Date: Sunday, January 25, 2026
Venue: Otley Courthouse
The last Sunday of the month also means the return of the Craft Fair at Otley Courthouse. Local makers and artists fill the space with handmade goods, creative pieces, and one-of-a-kind finds. Perfect for a relaxed browse, a thoughtful gift, or simply supporting the talent on your doorstep, from 10am to 1pm.
For details of these and other great Otley events, see https://www.visitotley.co.uk/whats-on/calendar/