Cultural and Historical Celebrations Make Ohio a Great February Family Destination
Events celebrate culture, history, culinary offerings, heritage and the outdoors in Ohio
February is a busy month for Ohio as cultural and historical celebrations abound. Kick off Black History Month by visiting an exhibit that explores the artistic and literary contributions of African Americans, or travel to Cincinnati to learn more about Ohio's Appalachian culture with exciting hands-on experiences.
For those looking to spend a romantic day with their partner, visitors can tour award-winning wineries offering an unforgettable, chocolate-filled experience on Ohio's north coast. Or, if you're looking for an exhilarating event, check out the festival that dares its competitors to ski or snowboard in their bikinis and Speedos. Following is just a sampling of February events that make Ohio Too Much Fun for Just One Day!
Family Fun
Arctic Ice Festival, throughout Sandusky, Feb. 6 - 7 (NW)
This family friendly event offers both fun and educational winter activities. Enjoy ice sculptures by Aaron Costic, Olympic Gold Medal winner and National Champion ice carver. Other highlights include ice carving demonstrations, ice boat races, Underground Railroad tours and more.
Black History Month: All That Jazz and Poetry and Art, Fort Steuben, Steubenville, Feb. 8 - 26 (NE)
Celebrate Black History Month at this exhibit, which focuses on the contributions of African Americans in the arts and literature. From the early influence of spirituals to the evolution of jazz; from the 18th-century poetry of Phyllis Whitley to the writings of Toni Morrison and the internationally acclaimed photography of Gordon Parks, the achievements of these men and women are recognized at this exciting exhibit.
Maple Sugaring in the Hills, Hocking Hills State Park, Logan, Feb. 13 - 14 (SE)
Located behind Hocking Hills' Old Man's Cave Visitor's Center, the Naturalist Cabin hosts this year's Maple Sugaring event. Watch as maple is extracted from the trees and boiled down to make the sweet taste of maple syrup. Visitors also can learn about the different methods used to create and manufacture this delicious treat. Once the process is finished, free samples are available for all to enjoy.
Arts and Culture
Chocolate is for Lovers, throughout northeast Ohio, Feb. 5 - 13 (NE)
Treat your valentine to a romantic trip throughout northeast Ohio's boutique wineries. This self-guided driving tour takes visitors along the Vines and Wines Trail and stops at wineries including Biscotti's, Debonne, Ferrante, the Old Firehouse and the Barrel Room. Enjoy a Schott Zwiesel crystal wine glass and gift at the starting winery and wine samples and appetizers at each winery. Reservations are required; call (800) 227-6972 for more information.
Fine Arts Fund Sampler Weekend, throughout Cincinnati, Feb. 20 - 21 (SW)
Celebrating its 24th year, the Fine Arts Fund offers visitors throughout Cincinnati a weekend of more than 100 free arts events, many of which are at popular attractions in the area. Enjoy free admission and/or events at the Taft Museum of Art, Cincinnati Art Museum, Cincinnati Ballet, Cincinnati Opera, Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra, Cincinnati Pops Orchestra and more.
Central Ohio Home and Garden Show, Ohio Expo Center, Columbus, Feb. 27 - March 7 (C)
Enjoy fragrant full-size gardens at Central Ohio's Home and Garden Show. Appropriately themed, "Art in Bloom," more than 400 exhibits, events, attractions and yards of gardens make this event a great way to get the best home decorating tips. Other highlights include cooking demonstrations, workshops and major celebrity appearances, all of which make this show a must-see event.
Sports and Recreation
Woodcarver's Den Show, Bellevue, Feb. 6 - 7 (NW)
This annual show brings in visitors from all over interested in seeing thousands of beautiful carved wood pieces on display such as animal sculptures, bowls and various pieces of wood art. Visit artisans at work as they carve and burn wood to create their craft, or check out the large display of carving tools, books, blanks and wood-carved pieces available for purchase. Admission to this event is free.
Sweethearts Hike at Ash Cave, Hocking Hills State Park, Logan, Feb. 13 (SE)
Grab your Valentine and head to Hocking Hills for the "sweetest" hike ever. Enjoy the soft glow of dusk on Hocking Hills' breathtaking landscape during a relaxing hike while holding hands. This romantic stroll includes stops at the region's famed Ash Cave followed by a cozy fire and refreshments indoors.
Winter Carnival Show, Snow Trails Winter Resort, Mansfield, Feb. 21 - 22 (NE)
The Snow Trails Winter Carnival Show is a great winter festival-the two-day event dares female and male competitors to brave the cold and ski in their bikinis and Speedos. Additional highlights include a bratwurst burn, kids challenge and torch parade. The Winter Carnival is most memorable for the extreme snow-related sporting events incorporating skis and snowboards skimming across the Slush Cup's icy pool of Mt. Dew™-colored water.
History and Heritage
Valentines by Candlelight, Ohio Village, Columbus, Feb. 12 - 13 (C)
Enjoy a romantic dinner for two at the Ohio Village and greeting at the American House Hotel by costumed interpreters. Before an elegant meal, Ohio Village singers present an entertaining concert of period love ballads performed on the violin and hammered dulcimer, and comic songs interspersed with romantic poetry and readings. Afterward, receive a handmade valentine created for the occasion. Reservations are strongly recommended; call (614) 297-2300 for more information.
U.S. Air Force Band of Flight: Hearts, Heroes and Heritage Concert, National Museum of the United States Air Force, Dayton, Feb. 13 (SW)
The U.S. Air Force Band of Flight welcomes visitors to the National Museum of the United States Air Force for a concert that celebrates Valentine's Day, Martin Luther King, Jr., Day and President's Day all at once. Enjoy a free tour of the museum and check out this free patriotic concert starting promptly at 7:30 p.m. Please note, seating is available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Appalachian Culture Fest, Cincinnati Museum Center at Union Terminal, Feb. 13 - 14 (SW)
Visitors are welcomed to one of Cincinnati's most educational landmarks to celebrate the unique and exciting Appalachian culture. The event features skilled mountain crafters selling handmade wares, traditional arts demonstrators, storytellers and performances by talented bluegrass musicians. Visitors also learn about Appalachian music, folklore and crafts through hands-on experiences. Fine woodcrafts, jewelry and art also are available for purchase.
For additional February events, visit www.DiscoverOhio.com. The Ohio Travel Planner and Ohio Calendar of Events also are both viewable online. Trained travel counselors are available to assist 1-800-BUCKEYE callers weekdays from 8:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. and weekends from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
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