Whether you’re satisfying your sweet tooth at Peddler’s Village of Chocolate or meeting fantastical friends at Mythicon, you’re bound to find a reason to love PA this February!
1. Winter Wonder at Longwood Gardens
Escape winter’s cold and blustery winds to a refuge filled with warmth, wonder, and whimsical moments during Longwood Gardens’ Winter Wonder. Their conservatory is simply bursting with bold, colorful blooms, textured greenery, and beautiful displays under glass. While Longwoods is spectacular all year round, plan to return in the fall for Longwood Reimagined, its 17-acre expansion featuring brand new, state-of-the art buildings, delight-filled new gardens (both indoor and out), and paths that wend through gardens and meadows with beautiful scenic vistas of the surrounding countryside.
When: Now-Mar. 24
Where: Kennett Square
Cost: Included with admission
2. Snow Geese Migration
Every year like clockwork Snow Geese return to Middle Creek Lake in southcentral PA in mid-February, resting and bulking up before leaving for their summer nesting grounds on the artic tundra. It’s a simply breathtaking sight (and one to put on your “life list”) to see tens of thousands of Snow Geese and other waterfowl resting on the lake, even if you aren’t into bird watching!
Tip: The best times to see these beautiful birds are at sunrise before they leave the lake to feed in the nearby fields and at sunset when they return.
When: Feb.-Mar.
Where: Stevens
Cost: Free
3. Lebanon County Black History Month Event Series
Celebrate southcentral Pennsylvania’s rich Black history with the Lebanon County NAACP during their Black History Month events. Start February off with an evening First Friday Art Walk featuring African-inspired art by local high school students, live music, and other art displays in downtown Lebanon, followed by an African Drumming Workshop on the 10th. Learn about the lives and experiences of enslaved African Americans during a special tour of the Cornwall Iron Furnace, an African American Heritage Trail stop, then savor a soul food lunch at local black-owned business, Aunt Hocker’s Fish Fry on the 17th. Finally, on the 24th, enjoy a delicious soul food dinner and dance the night away at the Second Annual Black History Month Freedom Fund Gala!
When: Feb. 10, 17, and 24
Where: Multiple locations
Cost: Price varies
4. The Great American Outdoor Show
Calling all outdoor enthusiasts! The Great American Outdoor Show is back with its annual event in Harrisburg. Known as one of the largest gatherings of outdoor lovers in the world, this nine-day show features hunting, camping, fishing, and traditional outdoor seasonal events. With a myriad of exciting activities and exhibitions to enjoy, you can also explore an exhibit hall and attend seminars featuring celebrity appearances.
When: Now- Feb. 11
Where: Harrisburg
Cost: Price varies
5. Children’s Story Hour at Gettysburg National Military Park
Bring your little bookworm and budding history buff to Gettysburg National Military Park for their History Kids Reading Adventures Club, held on the first two Saturdays of February. Park educators will lead a fun and historical story time, following a theme of “With Liberty and Justice for All.” If your crew is looking for a sensory-friendly option, special opportunities and programming will be available for visitors with visual and auditory sensitivities to enjoy on Feb. 10 so all can experience Gettysburg in a calm environment with activities fun for all ages.
When: Feb. 3, 10 (Sensory-friendly hours on Feb. 10)
Where: Gettysburg
Cost: Free
6. Gettysburg National Military Park Winter Lecture Series
Gettysburg National Military Park’s winter lecture series continues on most Saturdays and Sundays in February. Topics range from a discussion of Civil War battles to speeches given by U.S. presidents at Gettysburg to an exploration of the lives of ordinary soldiers, among other topics. On Feb. 3, the lecture goes outside to visit the graves of African American Service members buried at the Gettysburg National Cemetery, highlighting the lesser-told stories of African Americans who served in the Civil War, Spanish-American War, World I, World War II, and Vietnam. Then on Feb. 24, living historian and performer Janice Curtis Greene will portray Harriet Tubman, her life and road to freedom using Tubman’s own words.
When: Feb. 10, 17-18, 24-25
Where: Gettysburg
Cost: Free
7. Sparkle and Shine with Trinity Thomas
Tuck and roll your way to the York Expo Center as elite gymnasts compete in the Sparkle & Shine Invitational tour with Trinity Thomas, four-time National Team gymnast. The artistic gymnastic competition is open to USA Gymnastics and NGA 1-10 and Xcel divisions, with a portion of the proceeds donated to The Trinity Thomas Foundation that provides access to sports programs in underserved communities. Along with fantastic gymnastics, fundraise for this great cause and you just might score an invite to an exclusive breakfast banquet with Trinity!
When: Feb. 9-11
Where: York
Cost: $25 for adults; $15 for active military and seniors; Free for kids 5 and under
8. Valentine’s Day Dinner and Dancing
Enjoy a world of romance and a magical evening of dinner and dancing at Deer Creek Winery’s Watson Estate in their 1800s Estate Dining Room in Uniontown. You’ll be treated to a surf 'n turf buffet dinner and dessert, paired with your favorite bottle of Deer Creek Wine as you enjoy live music with a different musician featured each evening. If the winery’s Shippenville locale is more convenient, especially with an afternoon seating on the 11th, you’ll be serenaded by vocalist Brian Phillips as you enjoy a dinner of Tuscan pot roast, chicken Florentine, or pasta marinara.
When: Feb. 9, 10, 11, 14 (Uniontown); Feb. 11, 14 (Shippenville)
Where: Uniontown, Shippenville
Cost: $129.99 per couple
9. 2024 Groundhog Wine & Distillery Festival
Now that Punxsutawney Phil has issued his weather outlook for the upcoming six weeks, you might want to celebrate the outcome or dull the pain with a delicious glass of wine. Either way, the 18thGroundhog Wine & Distillery Festival at the Clearfield County Fairgrounds has you covered! Enjoy tastings from the region’s local wineries and distilleries paired with delicious food, fun vendors, door prizes, and live music. With more than 200 “wines and shine” to choose from, you’re sure to come home with a new favorite at this adults-only event.
When: Feb. 10
Where: Clearfield
Cost: $25
10. Village of Chocolate at Peddler’s Village
Peddler’s Village Village of Chocolate is a chocolate-filled extravaganza with a variety of delectable events and experiences to please your palate this Valentine’s season. Chocolate lovers will have the opportunity to pair their favorite chocolate treats with food, drinks, and even whiskey! From a hands-on experience learning how to make your very own goodies to a hearty Sunday brunch in a chocolate factory, enjoy the sweetness of Peddler’s Village all weekend long.
When: Feb. 14-18
Where: Lahaska
Cost: Price varies
11. Healthy Adams County Hiking Parties
“Heart” your heart this Valentine’s Day (and the 24th) with a guided hike led by Healthy Adams County. Whether you’re a trailblazing beginner or seasoned hiker, these fully guided hikes are perfect for exploring the scenic parks and trails around Gettysburg with the locals. Elevate your stay by discovering the serene nature of PA in winter.
When: Feb. 14, 24
Where: Gettysburg
Cost: Free
12. 31st Annual Jim Thorpe Winter Fest
Often referred to as the “Little Switzerland of America,” winter is the perfect time to visit the quaint town of Jim Thorpe, especially during their annual Winter Fest celebration. Enjoy a variety of activities including live entertainment, a magic show, ice and wood carving demonstrations, horse and carriage rides, trolley tours, a luminary walk, food and drink specials, and round-trip train rides on the Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway. Be sure to purchase a 2024 Winterfest Mug to take home a variety of goodies from participating businesses, including a commemorative bag from Jim Thorpe Olive Oil Company.
When: Feb. 16-18
Where: Jim Thorpe
Cost: Free
13. Erie RV and Outdoor Adventure Show
The great outdoors is calling at the Erie RV and Outdoor Adventure Show! Catch up on the latest outdoor technology with RV, camping, power sports, and other travel displays. Start planning for your spring and summer outdoor adventures now by stocking up on all your fishing, hunting, and camping supplies from participating vendors.
When: Feb. 16-18
Where: Erie
Cost: Price varies
14. Mythicon
Make fantastical friends at Gettysburg’s Mythicon, a mid-winter gathering of magical folk. From faeries and trolls to goblins and gnomes, mythical creatures of all kinds come together to fight off the winter blues at this three-day event, featuring two popular mythical Balls. Be the main character of your own fairytale at this family-friendly fantasy convention.
When: Feb. 16-18
Where: Gettysburg
Cost: Price varies
15. Philadelphia Fishing Show
Hook a great catch without fear of getting wet at the Philadelphia Fishing Show! Learn the tricks of the trade, including some incredible lure making, from professional and competitive anglers who will take center stage on top (yes, on top!) of a 5,000-gallon aquarium filled with local gamefish. The whole family can compete to see who can land the biggest trout from the trout fishing pond (no need to bring your own gear) or practice your casting skills at the virtual fishing simulator featuring multiple species, life-like graphics, and true to life rods and reels that actually bend when you hook a virtual fish!
When: Feb. 16-18
Where: Oaks
Cost: $12 for adults; $6 for kids ages 6-12; Free for kids under 5
16. Restaurant Week York
Are you a foodie looking for lesser-known Restaurant Weeks that are full of flavor with half the crowds? Explore York’s vibrant food scene at Restaurant Week York, a 10-day small-ish city culinary adventure. Meet innovative chefs at top-notch restaurants, market stands, bars, cafés, and pop-ups. Whether you’re visiting an old favorite or a newly opened spot, delicious destinations are everywhere in York!
When: Feb. 16-25
Where: York
Cost: Price varies
17. Spirits of the Burgh
Raise a glass to Pittsburgh’s beverage scene at the first-ever Spirits of the Burgh festival! Try craft cocktails, beers, ciders, wines, and non-alcoholic drinks from 20 local Pennsylvania businesses. Sip your way around the city with the perfect food pairings from festival-favorite food vendors. Leave the kids (or pets!) at home for a fun night of drinking, dining, and dancing.
When: Feb. 17
Where: Pittsburgh
Cost: Price varies
18. Mardi Gras Celebration at Sesame Place
Get ready to don your best sparkly purple, green, and gold attire for a fun-filled day at Sesame Place's Mardi Gras celebration. This colorful, family-friendly event brings the excitement of New Orleans' famous festivities to the beloved theme park. With Sesame Street characters sporting their vibrant Mardi Gras costumes, entertaining parades, and interactive performances, experience the liveliness of this fun month-long event. From Mardi Gras-themed activities and delicious Cajun-inspired cuisine to festive music and entertaining dances, celebrate with your favorite Sesame Street friends.
When: Feb. 17-Mar. 17
Where: Langhorne
Cost: Price varies
19. 37th Annual Pennsylvania Skating Championships
Here’s your chance to see the best up and coming ice skaters from Pennsylvania and neighboring states in Olympic-style competition (conducted in accordance with the rules and regulations of U.S. Figure Skating) at the 37th Annual Pennsylvania Skating Championships. Vying for gold, silver, and bronze medals, the performances are elegant and graceful, while the competition is fierce especially since it is a qualifying event for the 2024 State Games of America.
When: Feb. 23-25
Where: York
Cost: Free
20. Philly Home and Garden Show
Find infinite inspiration for your home and garden(s) at the three-day Philly Home + Garden Show! With nearly 300 resourceful exhibitors, this show provides an opportunity to discover exciting new ideas, get tips, and explore a wide range of home improvement, décor, remodeling, gardening, and outdoor living products. Whether you're looking to shop or learn, hundreds of experts will be on hand to answer your questions.
When: Feb. 23-25
Where: Oaks
Cost: Price varies
21. Kennett Winterfest
Kennett Brewfest’s winter counterpart, Kennett Winterfest, is a little chilly but just as hoppy! Try more than 130 beers from over 60 breweries, including PA favorites 2SP Brewing Company, Conshohocken Brewing Company, Evil Genius Beer, Victory Brewing Company, and Yards Brewing Company. Pair your pint with live music and tasty munchies from local food trucks. Don’t forget to thank your designated driver with discounted tickets and specialty mocktails!
When: Feb. 24
Where: Kennett Square
Cost: Price varies
22. Fastnacht Treat Northern & Reading Railroad
Experience a beloved PA tradition and hop on the PA Dutch Donut Train, aka the Fasnacht Treat Train, this February! Enjoy this traditional, indulgent Pennsylvania Dutch treat with your choice of powdered sugar or maple syrup as you ride along the Northern and Reading Railroad. Once in Jim Thorpe, you can find more sweet bites throughout the local cafés and shops.
When: Feb. 24-25
Where: Reading
Cost: Free
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