Where to Go and When- February Event Guide

Welcome to a Winter Wonderland

Hello, and welcome to February in Northern Michigan! If you think winter up here is a time for hibernation, think again. February is when our region truly comes alive, transforming into a vibrant wonderland of snowy adventures and cozy gatherings. This isn't just a season to get through; it's a season to celebrate-let's beat those winter blues!

For the first-time visitor, the sheer number of options can be dazzling. That’s where my top choice guide comes in. Whether you're looking to embrace the crisp winter air at a lively outdoor festival, warm up with world-class food and wine, or discover our local arts scene, we’ve curated a sampler of the best events happening this February. Let’s find your perfect winter activity!

Embrace the Outdoors: Winter Festivals & Active Fun

There's no better way to experience the magic of an "Up North" winter than by getting right in the middle of it. This is where you'll find the quintessential Northern Michigan spirit—from bustling town festivals filled with sparkling ice sculptures to serene, candlelit trails and thrilling ski events that get your heart pumping.

Celebrate the Season at a Community Festival

Our local towns roll out the snowy carpet in February with festivals that are perfect for families, couples, and anyone looking for some winter cheer.

Local's Tip: For the Harbor Springs Ice Fest, the dueling chainsaws demonstrations are the main event. Check the downtown schedule and arrive early to get a good spot!

Hit the Trails: Magical Winter Hikes

Experience the quiet beauty of our forests and preserves on these specially guided walks.

• Guided Nature Hike at Leo Creek Preserve (Feb 3): This is your chance to join a daytime walk in Suttons Bay to learn how to identify trees in winter and warm up afterward with fresh pine needle tea.
• Candlelight Hike at Mt. McSauba (Every Friday in Feb): This peaceful, self-guided evening hike or snowshoe adventure in Charlevoix on a beautifully illuminated trail is a local favorite; drop in anytime between 5-8 p.m. to enjoy the path before warming up by the bonfire with hot cocoa.
• Winter Lantern Walk at Leo Creek Preserve (Feb 27): Join a magical, lantern-lit community event in Suttons Bay that guides you through a serene trail, with hot cocoa and snowshoes available for a perfect winter night.

Skiing, Riding, & Unique Resort Fun

Our local ski resorts are buzzing with energy in February, offering everything from great deals to one-of-a-kind competitions.

• Discounted Ski Days: Resorts like Crystal Mountain make it easy and affordable to hit the slopes with deals like "Woo-Hoo Wednesdays" and "Sunday Funday," which offer discounted lift tickets for skiers and riders. My family and I are there every other Sunday like clockwork and a varying day during the week! Let me know if you want to be on my text list to come join us!
• The Premier Nordic Ski Race: The 50th Anniversary North American VASA Festival of Races (Feb 14-15) in Traverse City is a monumental event and the crown jewel of the Midwest's cross-country ski and fat tire bike racing circuit, drawing athletes of all levels.
• An Unconventional Challenge: Try something completely different with the Airsoft Biathlon at Crystal Mountain (Feb 1) in Thompsonville, where you can cross-country ski or snowshoe a 3-5KM loop and pause at stations to test your accuracy firing airsoft guns at targets.

After all that exhilarating outdoor fun, there's nothing better than heading inside to warm up with some of the region's best culinary creations.

Cozy Up with Local Flavors: Food & Drink Experiences

February is when Northern Michigan's culinary scene truly shines, turning the harvest from our renowned Leelanau and Old Mission Peninsulas into cozy, sophisticated experiences. From wine trails flanked by snow-covered vines to curated prix-fixe dinners in town, this is your chance to taste the terroir of the 45th parallel.

Sip & Stroll Through Charming Towns

Explore our picturesque downtowns while enjoying curated tastings at these delightful "walk" events.

• Bubbly & Chocolate Walk in Frankfort (Feb 22): This popular 21+ event invites you to spend the afternoon sampling delicious sparkling wines and decadent chocolate treats while you browse the fantastic local shops.
• Snow on the Vines on the Leelanau Peninsula Wine Trail (Feb 20-22): Picture this: you journey between celebrated wineries, tasting exceptional wines expertly paired with cozy, flavorful small bites, all against the stunning backdrop of snow-covered vineyards.

A Taste of the Town: Restaurant Weeks

A "Restaurant Week" is a fantastic opportunity for food lovers to explore local eateries as they offer special multi-course menus at a fixed price. It's the perfect excuse to try that spot you've always been curious about!

• Harbor Springs Restaurant Week (February 20 - March 1)
• Traverse City Restaurant Week (February 22-28)

Local's Tip: Restaurant Week reservations, especially for popular Traverse City spots on a weekend, are essential. Book at least a week in advance if the restaurant's allow.

A Valentine's Weekend for Food Lovers

The Valentine's Day weekend is an especially delicious time in Northern Michigan. On the Old Mission Peninsula, the "The Cheesiest Valentine's Ever" series (Feb 12-15) offers a collection of curated wine and cheese pairings. For a truly memorable evening, consider the six-course Valentine's Wine Dinner at Chateau Chantal, an elegant affair featuring dishes and wine pairings thoughtfully designed by their Executive Chef.

From cozy culinary events to cultural happenings, there are plenty of ways to enjoy the region indoors.

Indoor Escapes: Arts, Theatre & Community

While the snow flies, the creative heart of our community beats strong. These indoor events are more than just a way to warm up; they are a direct line to the artists, storytellers, and thinkers who define Northern Michigan's year-round cultural fabric.

Local Theatre and Storytelling

• "Whose Life is it Anyway?" at Old Town Playhouse: Catch this powerful and thought-provoking drama in Traverse City, which asks deep questions about life and medicine, running through February 7.
• "Everyone Has a Story" at Kingsley Branch Library: Join a relaxed, no-prep storytelling circle on February 11, where community members share real, heartfelt, and funny moments from their lives.

Get Creative in Glen Arbor

The Glen Arbor Arts Center is a hub for creativity, offering a variety of workshops for those interested in arts and wellness. As a unique example, check out the "Small is Beautiful: Living Large In a Tiny House" event on February 22, which features a discussion on contemporary architectural trends and the move toward sustainable living.

Local's Tip: The Glen Arbor Arts Center workshops are very popular and often have limited space. Be sure to check their website and register online in advance to secure your spot!

Your Northern Michigan Adventure Awaits!

From the thrill of a winter festival and the quiet magic of a lantern-lit hike to the cozy warmth of a wine tasting room, February in Northern Michigan is brimming with possibilities. The season offers a unique blend of outdoor adventure, culinary delight, and rich local culture. We invite you to bundle up, step outside, and experience the incredible energy and beauty of winter "Up North" for yourself!