Every State's Best February Events in 2024

More than a few New Year’s resolutions have gone by the wayside, Blue Monday is behind us and the Big Game is right around the corner. In other words, welcome to February. In 2024, the second month of the year is full of fun events all across the country, and this year, we get one extra day to enjoy it all! 

From observances of Black History Month and vibrant Mardi Gras festivities in the usual haunts (and a few unexpected locales) to tantalizing food festivals, chic fashion weeks, film festivals and a plethora of winter carnivals celebrating the nation's snowy landscapes, February has something for everyone. And let's not forget the heart-filled celebrations of Valentine's Day, the super football game in Las Vegas on February 11, and of course, that famous Pennsylvania groundhog who makes his annual appearance this month. Yes, February 2024 has got you covered, so click on the slideshow to find out the best February events in your state or to find an event perfect for anchoring a winter road trip. 

Start your month in Birmingham at the impressive World of Wheels indoor custom car show (February 2-4) before making for Mardi Gras in Mobile, the state's biggest annual bash, which will peak on Fat Tuesday (February 13). In the lead-up to the big day, you can expect a packed social calendar featuring parades, parties and special events. Wrap up your month on Alabama's Gulf Coast at the 32nd Annual Orange Beach Seafood & Car Show (February 24), where you can indulge in delicious food, enjoy live tunes and browse goods from over 100 arts & crafts vendors.

The second month of the year brings the beloved tradition of the Ice Alaska World Ice Art Championships back to Fairbanks (starts on February 17 and runs through the end of March). Swing by to witness dazzling works of art crafted by some of the world's best ice carvers. February is also synonymous with The Fur Rendezvous in Anchorage (February 23 - March 4), which will once again flood the city with midwinter cheer and revelry. Since 1935, the "Fur Rondy" as locals affectionately call it, has drawn folks from near and far to partake in dozens of offbeat and "unique to Alaska" events like the Frostbite Footrace, Costume Fun Run and Miners & Trappers Country Jam alongside concerts, melodramas and a Grand Parade. Another great event at the end of the month will be The 50th Festival of Native Arts (February 22-24), which will be held at the University of Alaska Fairbanks Troth Yeddha' Campus. 

Going to Arizona in winter is always a good idea and the month is full of great things to do under the state’s signature sunny skies. Kick things off at The WM Phoenix Open (February 5-11) in Scottsdale, a golf tournament affectionately dubbed the “Greatest Show on Grass” and the “People’s Open” for its lively, one-of-a-kind atmosphere. The tourney once again promises the ultimate blend of excitement and pro golf like nothing else on the PGA circuit, and this year, the surrounding events will also include a concert from Post Malone (February 3). Elsewhere in the Grand Canyon State, the long-standing Tubac Festival of the Arts returns on February 7-11, the renowned Tucson Gem, Mineral & Fossil Showcase will take place on February 8-11 and Wickenburg will toast its heritage during the annual Gold Rush Days festival on February 9-11. 

Little Rock is the spot to hit up this February, as it will host an array of delightful events. Dive into the world of anime at the Anime Festival (February 3-4), then stick around for the one-of-a-kind Garden Bros. Nuclear Circus on February 15-18. And don't forget to pack your flippers for SoMardi Gras in the city's South Main neighborhood on February 10, where the parade and party will have an "Under The Sea” theme. For those with a taste for beer & culinary adventures, head over to cool college town Fayetteville for the Frost Fest Outdoor Beer Festival on February 3, which will be followed by the delectable dining experiences of Restaurant Week (February 25 - March 2).

Lunar New Year takes center stage this month as the renowned Chinese New Year Festival & Parade takes place in San Francisco on February 24, an event that will see Awkwafina serve as the Grand Marshal. It's a spectacle not to be missed, touted as the world's largest celebration outside of China. Earlier in the month, the legendary Pebble Beach Pro-Am (January 31 - February 4) tees off on the Monterey Peninsula, offering top-notch golf amidst stunning coastal scenery. And for those with a sweet tooth, Lodi hosts its Wine & Chocolate Weekend (February 2-4), once again promising a decadent pairing of two beloved treats. Keep your eyes peeled in mid-to-late February for Yosemite's mesmerizing "Firefall," a fleeting natural wonder where the sun aligns perfectly, casting Horsetail Falls aglow. 

Make your way down south to Durango for Snowdown, a lively winter festival that keeps the fun going through February 4. Then, head to Steamboat Springs for its annual Winter Carnival (February 10-11), where the town comes alive with revelry and quirky competitions like shovel races and fiery ski jumping. Later in the month, head to Telluride for the Telluride Comedy Festival (February 15-18), where top-notch comedians will have you laughing all night long and make your way to Silverton for the beloved annual Silverton Skijoring event (February 17-18). If you’re unfamiliar with skijoring, it’s a sport that combines the thrills of water skiing, horse racing and snow skiing and has to be seen to be believed.

Get ready for a dose of culture at the Connecticut Historical Society Museum & Library in Hartford, as it will host its French Canadian Jam (February 3) and Lunar New Year celebration (February 24). Then, shake off those winter blues at Wintertide, the annual celebration at Mystic Seaport Museum (February 17-19). This year's extravaganza promises to be bigger and better than ever, with ice sculptures, crafts, games, live tunes, hot cocoa, delicious food and snowglobes that'll blow you away (in a good way!).

Start your month off in Wilmington delving into the rich history of Delaware's African trailblazers at Delaware Trailblazers, the exciting kick-off celebration for Black History Month 2024. The event will be filled with captivating performances, enlightening demonstrations, immersive history displays and much more. Get ready to plunge into icy waters at Lewes' annual Polar Bear Plunge on February 4, where thousands will brave the frigid Atlantic Ocean for a charitable cause. Whatever you do, don't miss the Mardi Gras Loop event on February 10, where nightlife venues across Wilmington will come alive with festive spirit and lively celebrations. 

The Sunshine State is the place to be this February, as it will play host to scores of fun events. Start your month out in Orlando, where MEGACON (February 1-4) will once again bring together the worlds of comic, sci-fi, horror, anime and gaming fandoms for one of the biggest such events in America and the NFL Pro Bowl and its associated events will take place on February 1-4. This is to say nothing of the city’s wide-ranging events celebrating Black History Month. A few other Florida highlights include the Florida State Fair (February 8-19), the 54th Annual Everglades Seafood Festival (February 2-4), ArtsFest in Stuart, Florida (February 10-11) and the Naples National Art Show (February 23-25).

Kick off your February festivities in Savannah with the month-long celebration of the Savannah Black Heritage Festival (runs through February 25), which will feature a vibrant lineup of storytelling, theater, dance, music and more. In Atlanta, the Winter Beer Fest will tip back on February 10 and the highly anticipated Atlanta Jewish Film Festival takes place from February 13 to March 7, showcasing a diverse array of cinematic gems. Literature lovers won't want to miss out on the Savannah Book Festival from February 15-18, where all in attendance can immerse themselves in the world of words & storytelling in the always charming coastal city.

Kick off your February with the enchanting Waimea Cherry Blossom Heritage Festival on the Big Island (February 3), where you can revel in the early blooms and immerse yourself in cultural events. That is also the date for the 2024 Night In Chinatown Festival & Lunar New Year Parade in Honolulu. Meanwhile, over on the picturesque island of Kaua'i, the Waimea Town Celebration returns (February 17-25), offering a nine-day extravaganza filled with lively festivities and cultural experiences, all paying homage to the rich heritage of Waimea. Back on the Big Island, don't miss the chance to explore the vibrant artwork of the South Kona Artists Collective during its annual studio tour (February 24-25), an event that showcases the talent and creativity of local artisans.

The iconic McCall Winter Carnival has been reimagined and condensed, with this year’s event set to take place on February 23-25 with a “Color Outside the Lines" theme. Don’t worry though, the ice sculptures will be back and better than ever! In Boise, the Idaho Dream Wedding Expo will take place on February 17-18 and Boise State athletics will host a handful of home basketball games during the month. 

Make your way to the charming town of Woodstock (just northwest of Chicago) for the ultimate Groundhog Day celebration from February 1-4. This lively shindig pays homage to the beloved Bill Murray movie Groundhog Day, which was filmed in the town. Meanwhile, Chicago Restaurant Week is in full swing through February 4, offering  a delectable array of dining experiences across the city (sadly, The Bear isn’t included). Nature lovers won’t want to miss the chance to witness the majestic Bald Eagles at the Flock to the Rock event in Rock Falls on February 10. And for theater aficionados, mark your calendars for Chicago Theatre Week from February 8-18, when the Windy City showcases its vibrant performing arts scene with spectacular productions and performances.

Get ready for a winter wonderland adventure in Carmel, where the Winter Games are set to once again unfold on February 9-10. This unique event boasts an array of offbeat competitions including Human Curling, Ice Trike Relays and Human Hungry Hippos—all for a good cause. Beer and cider lovers won't want to miss out when the 15th Annual Winterfest Craft Beer Festival descends upon the Indiana State Fairgrounds in Indianapolis on February 10. Here, attendees can savor samples from hundreds of brews crafted across the Hoosier State. If you miss that beer festival, then head to Frigid Digits in Indy on February 17, which promises more of the same hop-based good times. Cap off the month in style as the 15th annual Marsh Madness Sandhill Crane Festival returns to the scenic Goose Pond Fish and Wildlife Area in Linton (February 16-17). It's the perfect opportunity to witness the majestic beauty of these graceful birds in their natural habitat.

Kick off your month by heading to the Iowa State Fairgrounds on February 3-4 for the renowned Flea Market—a must-visit destination for home decor aficionados, antique enthusiasts and jewelry lovers alike. For those craving a creative winter experience, make your way to Dubuque for the Winter Arts Snow Sculpting Festival (February 8-11). There, you’ll be able to watch talented artists transform blocks of snow into stunning works of art, adding a touch of magic to the otherwise plain midwinter landscape. Last but not least, the Home & Garden Show returns to Des Moines on February 22-25. 

Head to Wichita on February 2 for an art-filled adventure at the First Friday Gallery Crawl event, which will once again showcase some of the city's finest art galleries in all their glory. The excitement doesn't stop there though as the Monster Jam monster truck rally comes to town on February 24-25. Meanwhile, over in Topeka, the Overland Comic Convention at the Great Overland Station takes place on February 24, where in all in attendance will be able to immerse themselves in a world of superheroes, villains and everything in between.

Film fans won't want to miss the array of cinematic experiences in Louisville this month. Dive into the Black History Month Film Series (every Sunday in February at the Main Free Public Library) for a captivating journey through African American cinema. Then, mark your calendars for Louisville's Jewish Film Festival, celebrating its 26th Anniversary from February 3-18 with two weeks of thought-provoking and entertaining films that promise to enlighten and inspire. For those with a passion for the agricultural sector, the National Farm Machinery Show returns to Louisville from February 14-17. Over in Lexington, ‘za lovers will be in heaven during Lexington Pizza Week on February 19-25.

This February in Louisiana, there's one event that will reign supreme on the social calendar: Mardi Gras. While New Orleans steals the spotlight with its world-renowned celebration, the magic of the festival can be experienced throughout the state. The excitement leading up to Fat Tuesday (February 13) will be palpable, with parades, balls and lively events filling the streets of the Big Easy and beyond. Whether you're in Baton Rouge, Lake Charles, Lafayette or a small town in the bayou, you'll find Mardi Gras festivities aplenty. Another great event this month is Tet Fest (a Vietnamese New Year celebration), which will take place on February 16-19 in New Orleans. 

Start your February with winter fun at the 33rd Annual U.S. National Toboggan Championships in Camden from February 2-4. Here, you’ll be able to watch sledders from across the country compete for the coveted title in this lighthearted event that's always entertaining. In Portland, the 207 Day Scavenger Hunt (a celebration of all things Maine and Portland) will take place on February 3. The city will also see the return of the Portland on Tap beer festival on February 10. In Kennebunkport, love is in the air all month long with the annual Paint the Town Red event, which is dedicated to celebrating Valentine's Day in style while over in Somerset, SnowFest returns (February 16-24) with its usual array of entertainment snowy activities and competitions for the whole family to enjoy. 

Get ready to indulge in culinary delights as Baltimore's beloved Restaurant Week takes center stage, running through February 4. During the event, you’ll be able to explore special menus at the city's diverse array of top-notch eateries. State capital Annapolis will also hold a gastronomic celebration this month, with Annapolis Restaurant Week kicking off on February 24 and extending into early March. Annapolis has even more to offer this month as the African American Heritage Tour takes place on February 17, providing a fascinating glimpse into the city’s heritage. Last but not least, head to Easton for their cherished annual Fire & Ice Festival (February 16-17) for ice sculptures and lots of frosty family fun.

Kick off your month with a bang at the 102nd Annual Greenfield Winter Carnival from February 2-4, where a weekend packed with frozen festivities like ice sculpture contests, mesmerizing fireworks and the zany cardboard sled race awaits. Lowell will embrace the season during its Winterfest on February 16-17 where all in attendance will be able to indulge in tasty delights at the soup cooking contest, groove to great live tunes, partake in fun outdoor activities and browse the vibrant art market. Boston is the place to be for Sci-Fi fans as the Boston Science Fiction Film Festival returns from February 9-19.

February in Michigan means embracing the enchanting beauty of winter, and the state’s selection of events truly showcases the magic of the season. Start things off in South Haven at the Icebreaker Festival (February 2-4), where the town comes alive with ice-centric events, from breathtaking ice sculptures to exhilarating winter sports. Then, head to Houghton on the Upper Peninsula for Michigan Tech University's famed Winter Carnival (February 7-10), a tradition going strong for over a century. From thrilling snow sports like broomball and curling to impressive snow statues, this celebration always provides endless fun amidst the stunning winter landscape. Elsewhere, Grand Rapids transforms into a winter wonderland with the World of Winter Festival, which will run throughout the entire month and feature a plethora of free activities (everything from captivating outdoor art installations to immersive experiences).

Winter in the Twin Cities wouldn't be complete without the beloved St. Paul Winter Carnival, celebrating its 138th anniversary in 2024. Running through February 4, this event promises a jam-packed schedule of festivities that will include but are certainly not limited to breathtaking snow sculptures, revel in the excitement, parades, scavenger hunts, fun runs. Then venture to the Brainerd Lakes Area for the Gull Lake Frozen Fore festival on February 22-25, where winter joy takes center stage. Dive into the icy fun with the Frozen Flop into the lake for charity, dance the night away at tent parties and experience other special happenings that make this event a highlight of the season.

Get ready for a wild ride as the Dixie National Livestock Show & Rodeo (February 9-17) gallops into Jackson for another year of fun. Get up close and personal with thrilling livestock shows, immerse yourself in agricultural expositions, experience awesome concerts and witness the largest rodeo east of the Mississippi in all its glory. Down on the Gulf of Mexico, the festive spirit will overflow with a plethora of Mardi Gras events, from elegant balls to lively parties. Cap off your month with a touch of culture at the 35th Annual Literary & Cinema Celebration in Natchez (February 22-23), where you’ll be able to immerse yourself in literature and film. 

The holiday season may be well over, but you can still lace up your skates and hit the Ice Terrace at Crown Center in Kansas City, which will celebrate its 51st season all month long. Whether you're gliding gracefully or testing your skills on the ice, it's the perfect way to embrace the season. Over in St. Louis, Soulard Mardi Gras will once again be the Midwest's ultimate pre-lenten blowout bash, featuring a Pet Parade, Wiener Dog Derby, Cajun Cook-off and Mayor's Ball leading up to the Grand Parade on February 10. Then, head down to Springfield for the perfect pre-Valentine’s Day party at the 11th Annual Beer Wine Cheese & Chocolate Festival at the picturesque Ozarks Empire Fairgrounds.

Mark your calendars for The Resort at Paws Up’s WinterFest event (February 16-19), a true culinary and adventure-filled experience featuring guest chefs and a tantalizing selection of wine and spirits. Elsewhere in the state, Winter Carnival returns to Whitefish (February 2-4), offering polar plunges, parades, pancake breakfasts and lively parties to beat the winter blues. Martin City keeps the energy high with Cabin Fever Days (February 9-11), featuring the renowned "barstool ski races" and other spirited events. Beer enthusiasts won't want to miss the Winter Brewfest in downtown Missoula (February 24), while cinephiles can indulge in the annual Documentary Film Festival in Big Sky (February 16-25).

Omaha’s romantic Midtown Crossing Season of Lights (a holdover from the holiday season) is still shining bright and will mak for a magical Valentine's Day night out. Beer lovers will be thrilled that Omaha Beer Week (February 17-25) will return this year to take over suds-centric venues all over town, offering a hoppy celebration of craft brews and local flavors. And fashionistas, mark your calendars for Omaha Fashion Week (February 21-25), where the runways come alive with the latest trends and fashion creations.

Lovelock will once again hold its beloved Valentine's Day celebration from February 8-11, offering a charming blend of romance, community spirit and hot air balloons. And don't miss the annual Dam Short Film Festival in Boulder City (February 14-19), where cinematic magic comes to life against the backdrop of Nevada's stunning landscapes. Of course, this is all a prelude to the action that will be going on in Las Vegas as "The Big Game" will take place at Allegiant Stadium on February 11 and you can bet that The Strip will be hopping during the entire lead-up to the super event. Artists performing concerts in Vegas this month include Adele, Kelly Clarkson, New Edition and Chicago.

Start February with a burst of winter fun in the charming town of Keene as they mark the 21st anniversary of their beloved Snow & Ice Festival on February 3. Here, you’ll be able to dive into a wonderland of family-friendly activities and marvel at some of the most exquisite ice sculptures in the region, promising a day filled with delight. In Hanover, the Dartmouth Winter Carnival will take place on February 8 - 11 (think ice sculptures and a celebration of the school’s winter sports teams) and Laconia will play host to the World Champion Sled Dog Derby on February 16-18. 

Head to the Winter Fire & Ice Festival (February 2-3) at the New Egypt Flea Market in Cream Ridge to embrace the best of winter (think ice sculptures, fire pits and wine tastings) then get ready to strut your stuff at the 21st Annual Fashion Week in Atlantic City (February 15-17). This stylish gathering will showcase a lineup of fashion-focused events, including glamorous runway shows that promise to dazzle. Then, head to Princeton's Palmer Square on February 18 for Dueling Pianos on Ice, a one-of-a-kind event that will have to be seen (and heard) to be believed. Last but not least, Seaside Heights will play host to the Polar Bear Plunge on February 24, which will see folks jumping into the cold Atlantic for a good cause.

 

Start your month off at the Albuquerque Quilt, Craft and Sewing Festival (February 1-3), where you’ll be able to experience the wonderful world of crafts & quilts. Film lovers won't want to miss the Santa Fe Film Festival, which will take place from February 2-11 in the heart of Santa Fe and show off an array of films from both established and emerging filmmakers For a Carnival celebration like no other, head to Red River for Mardi Gras in the Mountains (February 8-13), where you can take part in festivities, including a grand ball and the symbolic burning of Tchoupitoulas—a time-honored ritual believed to ward off negativity and welcome positivity for the year ahead. 

Experience the enchantment of the Saranac Lake Winter Carnival, a beloved tradition in the heart of the Adirondacks since 1897. From February 2-11, visitors can immerse themselves in a wonderland of winter delights including quirky competitions like frying pan tossing, exhilarating activities like curling & inner tubing and the breathtaking spectacle of an ice palace. The festivities are capped by a dazzling fireworks display that fills up the night sky. In the Big Apple, excitement abounds with Broadway Week, offering theatergoers discounted tickets to some of Broadway's hottest shows until February 4. Other great events in the city include New York Fashion Week (February 9-14) and the annual Chinatown Lunar New Year Parade & Festival on February 25, which will welcome the Year of the Dragon in style. 

Kickstart your February with style at Wilmington's 44th Annual North Carolina Jazz Festival (February 1-3), a must-attend event for lovers of jazz that will immerse all in attendance with soulful melodies and electrifying performances. Or, make for Morehead City and the Carolina Chocolate Festival (February 3-4) or Beaufort for its fun Mardi Gras festival (February 9-11). Later in the month, head to the Charlotte Museum of History for the African American Heritage Festival (February 22-24) to celebrate the cultural tapestry of African American history with a dynamic lineup of music, tantalizing cuisine, captivating art and inspiring guest speakers. 

Kick off February with a bang in Bismarck as the PRCA Championship Rodeo returns on February 2-3 for a weekend of thrilling rodeo action, featuring the best cowboys and cowgirls in the business. Over in Fargo, Frostival—the city’s favorite winter extravaganza— will keep the party going until February 24. At the event, you can expect sculpture competitions, adrenaline-pumping cardboard sled races and a smorgasbord of outdoor activities including kickball, volleyball, disc golf and even yoga in the snow. And for an icy adventure like no other, head to Devils Lake for Shiverfest (February 24-25), which is a frosty fiesta honoring all things winter (think ice fishing and hockey to sledding and a "frozen" 5K).

Kick-off February with a hoppy adventure at the Cincy Beer Fest in Cincinnati during the first weekend of the month (February 2-3), then hop up to Cleveland for the Cleveland Beer Fest on February 9-10. Make your way to the 30th Annual Medina Ice Festival over President’s Day Weekend (February 16-19) for a unique event where you will be able to marvel at over 100 stunning ice sculptures scattered throughout historic downtown Medina. Back in Cleveland, the WinterLand Festival will keep the excitement of embracing winter going until February 25 with events such as the Hot Cocoa Run (February 17) and the Brite Winter concert (February 24).

Start your month in Tulsa with the return of the First Friday Art Crawl on February 2 then head to the 11th annual Black Wall Street Heritage and History Festival (an event that commemorates the rich legacy of Tulsa's historic Black Wall Street district) on the following day (February 3). In Oklahoma City, An Affair of the Heart, which is one of the largest arts and crafts fairs in the USA, returns on February 9-11. Last but not least, Taste of OKC returns to Oklahoma City on February 23 for a night of enjoying culinary delights for a good cause. 

The City of Roses will be grooving as the Portland Jazz Festival marks its 21st anniversary from February 16 - March 2, with all in attendance getting the chance to enjoy some of the finest jazz artists from around the world. The city will also host the Cascade African Film Festival, kicking off on various dates starting February 2. Over in Bend, WinterFest (February 16-18) will once again take center stage with its wide array of mouthwatering food, great drinks, captivating light art installations by Central Oregon Light Art, carnival rides and live performances by artists like Chingy and Hell’s Belles.

Head to the charming town of Punxsutawney on Groundhog Day (February 2) to join the throngs of excited spectators as they greet Punxsutawney Phil and find out if he saw his shadow or not. Best to arrive the day before, because most folks stay up all night on February 1. The winter fun doesn’t end there, as Lititz in Lancaster County will hold its annual Fire & Ice Festival from February 16-25, a gathering that will once again see ice sculptures come together with a chili cook-off and scores of fun things for kids and families to take part in. Not to be left out of the frosty fun, Erie will host its Winter Carnival (think ice sculptures, ice skating and more) on February 22-25.

The cute coastal town of Newport will welcome the 35th Annual Newport Winter Festival to town from February 16-25. This cherished event offers a wide range of entertainment (think comedy shows and live music) in addition to thrilling competitions like the chili cook-off, warm drink-making contest and beach polo. Families are in for a treat at the Providence Children's Film Festival (February 16-25), which will once again provide captivating screenings and fun-filled activities for kids of all ages. 

Charleston will once again play host to the Color of Music Festival (February 6-10), an event that celebrates the rich legacy of black classical musicians. Meanwhile, film lovers shouldn't miss the esteemed Beaufort International Film Festival (February 19-25), which promises a captivating lineup of cinematic delights. Cap off your February with a culinary extravaganza on Hilton Head Island at the renowned Hilton Head Seafood Festival (February 20-26), where all in attendance will get the chance to indulge in delectable treasures from the sea, savor fine wines at tastings and experience the culinary skills of celebrity chefs.

Get ready for a wild ride as the annual Black Hills Stock Show & Rodeo returns to Rapid City, taking over the town until February 3. Experience the excitement of traditional rodeo competitions, along with thrilling sheepdog trials, mouthwatering food & beer events and electrifying concerts. Then, don't miss out on the quirky festivities at the 18th Annual Nemo 500 Outhouse Races & Chili Cookoff, happening at the Nemo Guest Ranch on February 24 and featuring plenty of laughter, adrenaline-pumping races and delicious warming chili.

Indulge in culinary delights during Dine Nashville, a month-long extravaganza showcasing Music City's top foodie experiences. During the event, collaborative chef events throughout the month lead up to a sensational finale with a week of irresistible discounts and specials at eateries citywide. For a romantic escape around Valentine's Day, head to Gatlinburg Skylife Park for the Love Is in The Air event, where you can experience captivating views and a brilliantly lit "Tunnel of Love" in the sky. Elsewhere, Songwriters Week takes center stage in the Volunteer State during the last week of February (February 18-24), where Tennessee celebrates its talented songsmiths with special showcases at various venues across the state. 

Join the festivities in Laredo as they commemorate the 126th Anniversary of their famous George Washington Birthday Celebration (various dates through February 10), a lively event that boasts concerts, a Jalapeno Festival, elegant balls and a spirited parade. In Brownsville, Charro Days Fiesta (February 29 - March 2) celebrates the vibrant culture of the region with parades, carnivals, extravagant costume balls and an abundance of mouthwatering local cuisine. End your month with the grand kickoff of the Houston Livestock Show & Rodeo, an iconic Lone Star State tradition (February 27 to March 17) full of rodeo competitions, live music (Ivan Cornejo, 50 Cent and Blake Shelton among many others), delicious food and plenty of Texas-sized good times.

 

Make your way to the slopes of Park City at the beginning of the month for the 2024 Freestyle International Ski World Cup from February 1-3. There, you’ll be able to watch in awe as some of the world's most talented freestyle skiers showcase their incredible skills in moguls and aerials. Other highlights of the month include the Salt Lake Winter Roundup on February 10 (think bull riding, skijoring and more) and Skijoring Utah in Park City on February 16-17.

Join in the winter fun at Waterbury's delightful Winterfest, which will run through February 4. At the event, you will be able to experience wassailing, ice skating parties and a variety of wintry sports activities. Then, step back in time at the Champlain Valley Exposition on February 3-4, where the beloved Renaissance Fair will transport you to medieval times with period garb and mugs of mead in a truly enchanting atmosphere. As the month winds down, adrenaline seekers won't want to miss the annual Harris Hill Ski Jump Competitions in Brattleboro (February 17-18), an event that always delivers an unforgettable experience.

Embrace the spirit of Black History Month at Colonial Williamsburg, where enlightening and educational programs will be on the schedule all month long. Elsewhere, immerse yourself in the enchanting DC Winter Lantern Festival at Lerner Square in Tysons, which will shine bright through February 18. Wine lovers won't want to miss the Virginia Wine Expo (February 23 - March 3), a meticulously curated event celebrating the finest wines, spirits and food in the Old Dominion. 

Seattle's vibrant Chinatown will hold its annual Lunar New Year celebration on February 24, marking the Year of the Dragon with vibrant dragon and lion dances, delectable cuisine and artisanal crafts. Indulge in a decadent experience at Yakima Valley's renowned Red Wine & Chocolate event, set to delight visitors during Presidents’ Day Weekend (February 16-19th). Here, you will be able to immerse yourself in a world of rich flavors as you savor the finest red wines crafted by Yakima Valley's esteemed wineries, perfectly complemented by mouthwatering chocolates. Later, the renowned Wintergrass festival returns to Bellevue on February 22-25, offering up some of the finest bluegrass music the Pacific Northwest has to offer. 

Get ready for a cultural feast at Clarksburg's First Fridays event on February 2, where the city's vibrant art scene takes center stage. Meanwhile, car enthusiasts can rev up their engines at the West Virginia International Auto Show in Charleston during the second weekend of the month (February 9-11). And if you're craving something sweet after Valentine's Day, mark your calendar for Mountain State Maple Days on February 17, where you can sample the delicious offerings from the state's finest syrup shacks.

Start your month off in Lake Geneva at Winterfest (February 1-4), where you'll be able to witness the U.S. National Snow Sculpting Championship and a lineup of engaging activities to celebrate winter’s oft-overlooked beauty. Then, dive into more of Wisconsin's winter wonderland with two great events in Madison. First up, the Frozen Assets Festival on February 3 promises winter fun (think movie screenings, ice skating, kite flying and more) with activities for the whole family. Then, from February 7-10, the Winter Carnival will keep the excitement going with outdoor adventures like frosty 5Ks and the famous Statue of Liberty inflatable on Lake Mendota. 

You'll be able to fully enjoy the season in Wyoming this February too as Pinedale's Winter Carnival (February 9-11) promises adrenaline-pumping action with unique contests like skijoring and a zany cardboard sled race. Elsewhere, the 39th Annual Glass Art Show will take place in Cheyenne all month long and the city will also play host to the Winter Knights of Cheyenne event, which features medieval jousting and plenty of revelry.