WITH today being deemed Blue Monday, we’ve rounded up some of the best free events across the country to cheer yourself up.
Blue Monday is said to be the most depressing day of the year, although initially was a marketing campaign by a travel company back in 2005.
It was coined for a number of reasons – the distance from Christmas, the wait before the next paycheck and being a common time to give up on New Year’s resolutions.
So whether you fancy some wildlife watching or deserve a free bagel, here’s what you can do and get this week without having to spend a penny, which will certainly boost the happiness levels a bit.
Canary Wharf Winter Lights
If you thought light trails were just for Christmas, you’d be mistaken.
Canary Wharf Winter Lights is back for its 10th year.
Taking place across 12 nights, it is putting on a series of displays and installations across the neighbourhood.
The tenth anniversary edition of the festival will have the theme ‘Dreamscape’, so you can expect some surreal and ethereal installations.
The Canary Wharf Winter Lights will run from 20 to 31 January, 2026 between 5-10pm.
Meet My Paws
As it’s Blue Monday today, you might fancy some extra company this week.
Meet My Paws is a free platform across the country that connects dog owners with people for walks.
It doesn’t cost a penny, you just arrange a time with the person and off you go.
Free Birdwatching Walks
This week is the beginning of RSPB Big Garden Birdwatch across the UK.
Whether you’re a bird-watching enthusiast, or just want to see some wildlife, there are plenty of free events you can book onto.
On January 23, 2026, there’s a birdwatch in Brondesbury Park for those who want to spot some wildlife.
The same event is being held at the Energy Garden at Hampstead Heath on the following day (January 24, 2026).
It’s completely free, you just need to RSVP here if you want to go to either.
If you’re Hertfordshire based, head to Lee Valley for ‘Guided walk: Birds of River Lee Country Park’ – tickets are running low so book your place here.
Other locations across the country include Lincoln Inn’s Fields.
Head here if you want to find out more on the Big Garden Birdwatch and events across the UK.
Make sure to wrap up warm, and bring your binoculars.
Corner Corner Music Events
If some entertainment is what you’re looking for then head to Corner Corner in Canada Water.
On the weekend of January 25-26, there are performances by Alex Jones & Live Band and Brian Grogan, an Irish Folk singer.
No payment necessary, all you have to do is turn up and enjoy.
East Lancashire Railway
The celebrations continue for 200 years of railway with The Railway 200 Exhibition Train.
It’s been travelling all over the country and will arrive in Bolton on January 21 until January 26.
Onboard the train are interactive displays and hands-on activities – all rail oriented of course.
It’s completely free, but booking is required if you want guaranteed entry.
Light Up Ramsgate
Ramsgate’s town centre has been shining with light installations since December, but four more are being added this week.
One called Event Horizon will be at the Sailors Church, another will be projected above 24 Harbour Street, Ramsgate Space is where you’ll find the third.
The last one that’s a giant inflatable illuminated constellation of stars will be at the town’s Wetherspoons.
The new works will launch on January 23 and continue with the rest of the trail until February 1.
Scrapbooking Workshop, Battersea Power Station
Get crafty at Battersea Power Station with a Scrapbooking Workshop.
All materials will be provided – you just need to bring your Moleskine notebook with you.
Pop in for a session on January 20 between 5-7pm.
Free Bagels at B Bagel
If one of your New Year’s resolutions was to start running in 2026, then treat yourself to a free lunch courtesy of B Bagel.
For London runners, if you get a PB for a run in January then take a screenshot in your running app (e.g. Strava).
Then DM B Bagel on Instagram with the screenshot, and they’ll put a freebie on your B Bagel app.
You can choose from Chicken Avocado, Salmon & Cream Cheese or the New York New York Bagel which comes with roasted turkey breast, coleslaw, mustard mayo and pickles.
Manchester Pub Quiz
WeRoad Travel Pub Quiz is heading to Manchester for a mix of trivia and drinks.
You can choose to go with friends or solo – in fact half of attendees are first-timers.
Reserve your spot here for the quiz on January 23 from 7-11pm at Manahatta Deansgate in Manchester.
For more city-based activities, here’s everything you can do at one of London’s most popular attractions before it closes ahead of renovation.
And here find out the English counties with the most free family activities from pony sanctuaries and steam railways to soft plays.