Tri-Cities Events Calendar Jan. 19–29: MLK Day Blood Drive, Pickleball

Volunteers collected blood and cleared litter from neighborhood green spaces during the MLK Jr. Day of Service on Jan. 19, a combined blood drive and park cleanup that aimed to strengthen public health infrastructure and neighborhood stewardship across Farmington, Bloomfield and Aztec. The effort supplied local hospitals and community needs while restoring parks used daily by families and seniors.

The week ahead in the Tri-Cities highlights a mix of recreation, culture and public safety programming. San Juan College Foundation hosts a pickleball tournament Jan. 23-25 that includes a reception and fundraising events tied to student support and campus programs. The tournament is positioned as both a competitive outlet and a revenue source for college scholarships and services, offering opportunities for community members to participate, spectate and donate.

Arts and family programming continue to anchor community life. Magician Zak Mirz performs "Kid at Heart" at the Henderson Fine Arts Center on Jan. 24, bringing family-friendly entertainment to the local stage. On Jan. 27, storm chaser Reed Timmer presents at the Connie Gotsch Theatre, an event that carries practical implications for emergency preparedness and public understanding of severe weather risks for San Juan County and the wider Four Corners region.

Cultural preservation and intergenerational learning are emphasized with Késhjéé, the Navajo Shoe Game, at San Juan College on Jan. 28-29. The learning session and game provide a space for Navajo culture, learners and community members to share traditions that contribute to identity, resilience and mutual respect.

Ongoing community activities offer regular outlets for wellness and connection. Brown Bag Birding meets at the Riverside Nature Center every Wednesday from noon to 1 p.m., making outdoor education and low-cost recreation accessible midweek. The Big Idea Makerspace hosts knitting workshops that support creative skill-building and social connection. Youth dodgeball and open gym hours at Sycamore Park Community Center provide physical activity and safe spaces for young people. Libraries across the Tri-Cities continue storytimes and family programs that support early literacy and caregiver networks.

These events together reflect local priorities: health, cultural continuity, recreation and support for students. Registration or fees apply for some programs; contact the hosting venues directly for tickets, sign-up details and any available financial assistance. Venues to check include San Juan College for collegiate events and fundraisers, Henderson Fine Arts Center and Connie Gotsch Theatre for ticketed performances, Riverside Nature Center for birding, The Big Idea Makerspace for workshops, Sycamore Park Community Center for youth programming, and your local library for family offerings.

Participation now bolsters immediate needs such as blood supplies and park upkeep and also sustains long-term community assets like arts venues, cultural programs and student supports. Expect similar weekly updates as more events are scheduled through the month.