The Hamptons welcome the new year with a packed schedule of live performances, outdoor explorations, cultural workshops, and art displays from January 2 to 7, 2026. Visitors can enjoy reggae nights, jazz sets, guided hikes under the full moon, and illuminated sculptures before they close. These activities highlight the area's vibrant cultural scene amid winter's chill.
Starting Friday, January 2, music lovers have options across the region. At Wolffer Estates in Sagaponack, the Kind Pines Duo performs at 4 p.m. during Candlelight Fridays, paired with cocktails and seasonal releases in the tasting room; reservations are recommended. Later that evening, Rum Punch Mafia brings reggae to North Sea Tavern in Southampton at 9 p.m., while karaoke draws crowds to the Stephen Talkhouse in Amagansett at 10 p.m. for $10 admission.
On Saturday, January 3, the Stephen Talkhouse hosts The Dog Watchers at 8 p.m., covering hits from the 1960s and 1970s by acts like The Beatles and The Rolling Stones, with tickets at $20. Sunday's Emmanuel Michael Trio offers jazz and blues at 3 p.m. at Sagaponack Farm Distillery, with proceeds supporting Duck Creek Arts Center's summer programs.
Outdoor enthusiasts can join a New Year's walk at 11 a.m. on the Big Reed Pond Trail in Montauk County Park, learning about native trees; it's free but requires reservations through Sofo. That evening at 5 p.m., a Full Wolf Moon Hike with Sofo and Friends of the Long Pond Greenbelt ends with refreshments after a one-hour stroll from the museum parking lot in Bridgehampton.
Cultural programs include a sound bath meditation at 11 a.m. on January 2 at The Church in Sag Harbor for $25, featuring crystal bowls and gongs—attendees must bring mats. On January 5, seniors learn tap dancing at noon for $5 at Rogers Memorial Library in Southampton, and artist Claire Watson discusses her work at 6 p.m. over a three-course dinner at Almond in Bridgehampton for $55.
Art highlights wrap up soon: Longhouse Reserve in East Hampton illuminates sculptures through January 3, with lit paths and a holiday market. Guild Hall displays Robert Rauschenberg's mixed-media works until January 4, while the Parrish Art Museum in Water Mill features Nina Yankowitz's paintings and sculptures through February 22. The White Room Gallery in East Hampton opens its colorful Imagine–New Year exhibition on January 2, running through March 2.
These events, detailed in Dan's Papers, encourage reservations and offer a mix of free and paid experiences to ring in 2026.
