The new year is in full swing and with it come a ton of new opportunities. We’re sharing a sampling of the fun things you can do in Ohio in February but don’t forget that you’ll find additional events via your local library, YMCA, and Visitor Center.
Things to do in Ohio in February
From ice skating to wildlife demonstrations and talks to small-town first Fridays and ice sculpture festivals, you’ll find things to get you out of the house and enjoy winter.
Ongoing Events Throughout the Month
- Robins Theatre in Trumbull County features a wide variety of acts in February, including tributes to Clapton, Led Zeppelin, Queen, Chicago, Michael Jackson, and more.
- Be one of the first to skate at The Ribbon at Glass City Metropark in Toledo. While the official opening of this new ice skating ribbon is slated for November, this February they will hold several sneak preview nights.
- The Toledo Zoo & Aquarium will host the Orchid Show on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays from February 10 through February 26. Get a dose of spring color from hundreds of orchids on display.
- In Dayton, the Edward A. Dixon Gallery hosts a Black History Month Art Exhibition from February 2 through February 26. The exhibit celebrates black history by honoring several figures from black history, including those who served in the military.
February 3 – February 5
- Downtown Mansfield and the Historic Carousel District host the First Friday Shop Hop on the first Friday of each month. Activities change monthly, but you can expect live music, dinner and drink specials at local restaurants, and lots of great shopping!
- Downtown Mansfield presents the Emerging Artists Festival on Saturdays from January 14 through February 4. February 4th is the last performance until spring and features “Women Most Wicked” , a play set in London’s Madame Tussaud’s Chamber of Horrors.
- Celebrate Black History Month at the Mansfield Richland County Public Library. This free event includes family-friendly activities, music, food, and prizes.
- The Heritage Gun Show comes to East Canton this weekend, with two days of exhibits at the Foltz Community Center. See what’s new in firearms and military surplus. Join or renew your NRA membership at the show for free admission.
- Dillon State Park near Zanesville hosts The Park After Dark on several dates throughout the winter. Sunday, February 5th features a Full Moon Hike starting at 7 pm.
- Car enthusiasts won’t want to miss the Toledo Auto Show this weekend at the Glass City Center. Check out the latest innovations in the auto industry and shop deals from several Ohio car dealers.
- Sample dozens of local and craft brews at Cincy Beerfest at Duke Energy Center on February 3 and 4. This Cincinnati event is a must for beer lovers. Admission includes a mug and 25 drink tickets. Food is also available at the event, which is only open to those 21 and older.
- Visit the Ohio History Connection for Wild Ohio Weekend this Saturday and Sunday. This is a great opportunity to learn about plants and animals indigenous to Ohio, including those that have gone extinct.
- Main Street Vermilion will host the 14th annual Ice A Fair on Saturday, February 4. Watch ice carving demonstrations and see dozens of finished ice sculptures. Trolley tours and the Frozen Play Space make this a fun event for the whole family.
February 10 – February 12
- Ever wanted to experience COSI without kids? COSI After Dark is the perfect opportunity. This month’s event on February 9 is themed: Science, Love, and Rock ‘n Roll. Unique experiences, tasty food, craft beer, and cocktails make this a fun adults-only party!
- Cleveland Beer Fest comes to the Huntington Convention Center on February 10 and 11. Check out the latest local craft brews and see what’s new in distilling and wine-making, too! Admission includes a souvenir mug and 25 sample tickets, with upgraded VIP options available.
- The Ohio Bird Sanctuary presents “Love is in the Air” on February 11th. This is your chance to meet some of the resident owls, and learn more about these beautiful creatures. Owl-themed crafts and activities will be offered after the presentation.
- Typically reserved for grade school classes, the Castle in Marietta now hosts History Camp for all ages on February 11. Make history fun with interactive lessons about the history of Ohio since the turn of the 20th century.
February 17 – February 20
- On February 16, join the Ohio State University at Mansfield and North Central State College for the 22nd Annual Soul Food Dinner & Show, featuring performing artist Ebony Stewart.
- The Heritage Gun Show comes to Mansfield this weekend, with two days of exhibits at the Richland County Fairgrounds. See what’s new in firearms and military surplus. Join or renew your NRA membership at the show for free admission.
- The 29th Annual Medina Ice Festival kicks off on February 17th, with over 100 ice sculptures, complete with LED lights after sundown. Ice carving competitions will be held throughout the weekend.
- The Ohio Bird Sanctuary in Mansfield hosts Winter Nature Camp on Monday, February 20th. Kids ages 6-12 will experience games, crafts, and hikes, and they will discover many ways to love winter in Ohio!
February 23
- Enjoy Breakfast for Dinner at the Cincinnati Club from 6-8:30 p.m. taste a plethora of gourmet bites from the city’s best brunch spots while enjoying live music all in one delicious evening. Plan ahead and buy your tickets for this tasty event here.
February 24 – February 26
Celebrate Mardi Gras in Cincinnati at the 67th Annual Mardi Gras celebration. Enjoy music, food, and drink in four rooms, each with a different music genre. There’s also a 50/50 raffle and silent auction, with proceeds funding the Rising STARs Scholarship Program.
Which of these events sound fun to you? Do you have a favorite event that should be included? Let us know so we can share it.
