Bundle up and make the most of mid-January with these local gatherings, programs, and winter-friendly activities around town. From cozy library hours to outdoor fun, here is what is happening close to home in Wanatah this week.
This Week at a Glance: January 12-18
- Mon Jan 12 - Town Hall Warming Center: Open during business hours for anyone needing a warm, quiet spot. Stop in, charge phones, and grab a cup of water.
- Tue Jan 13 - Family Storytime at the Library, 10:00 a.m.: Snow-themed books, simple crafts, and a warm place for little ones and caregivers.
- Wed Jan 14 - Senior Coffee and Cards, 9:00-11:00 a.m., Community Building: Friendly games, light refreshments, and conversation. All are welcome.
- Thu Jan 15 - Youth Open Gym, 6:00-8:00 p.m., School Gym: Basketballs will be out and hoops lowered for younger players. Bring clean gym shoes.
- Fri Jan 16 - Middle School Basketball Home Game, 6:30 p.m.: Come cheer on the home team. Concessions available. Spirit wear encouraged.
- Sat Jan 17 - Volunteer Fire Department Pancake Morning, 7:30-10:30 a.m., Fire Station: Bring the family for a warm breakfast and a quick look at the trucks.
- Sat Jan 17 - Winter Trail Walk, 1:00 p.m., Town Park: Easy-paced walk to spot winter birds and animal tracks. Dress in layers, traction recommended.
- Sun Jan 18 - Pop-Up Ice Skating, 1:00-3:00 p.m., Town Park Rink: Weather permitting. Bring your own skates. Hot cocoa stand if conditions allow.
Winter Wellness and Safety Notes
Expect cold mornings with a chance of flurries. Layer clothing, keep sidewalks salted, and check on neighbors who may need a hand with shoveling. Park off-street when possible to help plows clear routes. If you plan to be outdoors, choose bright outerwear and bring a small flashlight for dusk.
Spotlight: Local Library Comforts
The library remains a reliable refuge on brisk days. Beyond books, there are quiet tables for studying, a kids corner for play and reading, and staff picks for quick grab-and-go. Ask about winter reading bingo for all ages and the take-home craft kits available while supplies last.
Volunteer and Community Good
Consider an hour of service this week: check the lost-and-found box at the gym for items to return to neighbors, help tidy a park path after the snowfall, or send a thank-you note to a coach, teacher, or first responder. Small gestures go a long way in keeping Wanatah connected and kind during the winter stretch.
Looking Ahead Later This Month
Mark your calendars for the second half of January:
- Mon Jan 19 - MLK Day Service Moments: Join neighbors for brief clean-up and kindness checks around town. Bring gloves and a positive spirit.
- Thu Jan 22 - Library Crafters Night, 6:00 p.m.: Simple winter decor project for teens and adults. Materials provided while available.
- Sat Jan 24 - Indoor Winter Market, 9:00 a.m.-noon, Community Building: Preserves, baked goods, winter greens, and local artisan items. Family-friendly.
- Wed Jan 28 - Community Blood Drive, afternoon: Appointments encouraged, walk-ins as space allows. Bring ID and hydrate beforehand.
- Sat Jan 31 - Sledding Jamboree, 11:00 a.m., Town Park Hill: Friendly races, longest slide, and a build-your-best-snowman corner if snow holds.
Quick Reminders
- Dress for ice: boots with good tread, and consider traction cleats.
- Hydrate even in cold weather.
- Label kids coats and hats before events to reduce lost items.
- If roads glaze over, give yourself extra travel time and keep headlights on.
Have a warm and active week, Wanatah. Share a smile, wave on your street, and we will see you around town.
