The 11 Essential Ann Arbor Area Events to Attend February 2020
While the weather might be cold, there are many wonderful activities going on in the Ann Arbor area this February! We’ve turned the ice into ice carving festivals and curling competitions and we’re enduring the cold weather with chili cook-offs.
So whether you are looking to exercise your creative muscles painting, want to experience the orchestra or a play, explore a craft fair, or just want to eat some wings—there’s something for you on this list.
Jump ahead:
Arts + Culture | Community Celebrations | Sports | Food + Drink
Arts + Culture
Budapest Festival Orchestra | Ann Arbor
Where: Hill Auditorium
When: February 20, 7:30 p.m.
French violinist Renaud Capuçon joins the Budapest Festival Orchestra for this all-Dvořák program, which also features the UMS Choral Union in a performance of Dvořák’s Legends, Four Choruses, and Symphony Number 8. The BFO was co-founded by the charismatic conductor Iván Fischer in 1983, and their past performances in Hill Auditorium have left audiences mesmerized.
33rd Annual Storytelling Festival | Ann Arbor
Where: The Ark
When: February 22, 7:30 p.m.
For 33 years, the Ark’s annual Storytelling Festival has been a local favorite, bringing spoken word storytellers to Ann Arbor from all over the world. This year, the festival will feature Antonio Rocha, Anne Rutherford, Norm Brecke and Barbara Schutzgruber along with several others. Click here to get your tickets.
James & The Giant Peach Jr. | Ann Arbor
Where: The Encore Musical Theatre Company
When: February 28-March 8, Times Vary
For the fifth year of the Encore Junior program, witness James discover the true meaning of family in this iconic family story. Young performers will be crafting a brand new, musical re-imagining of Roald Dahl’s beloved book—and you won’t want to miss it!
Friday Art Night | Plymouth
Where: Plymouth Arts & Recreation Complex
When: February 21, 6:30-9 p.m.
Grab your entire entourage and go on a creative adventure at the Plymouth Arts & Recreation Complex! This February evening will feature denim and canvas painting along with snacks and refreshments that everyone will enjoy. Plus, you’re welcome to bring your own treats as well. This event is free for members of Makers ‘n Shakers and $25 for nonmembers.
Winter Birding | Brighton
Where: Hudson Mills Metropark Activity Center
When: February 8, 10 a.m.-12 p.m.
Join Hudson Mills Metropark staff as they search for some of the birds that decided to stay behind in Ann Arbor this winter! Be sure to dress for the weather as the event will take place outside. A limited supply of binoculars are available to borrow, so if you have some of your own, you’re encouraged to bring them.
Community Celebrations
Let’s Chill Winter Fest | Milan
Where: Multiple Locations
When: January 31-February 1
Centered around Milan’s downtown shopping area, Wilson Park and Edgetown, this annual event is one of our favorite winter happenings. Activities include a chili cook-off, Let’s Chill Winter Fest Wine Walk, indoor and outdoor winter games, ice carving, an artisan tent, food, The Big Freeze, and more.
Winter Fun Fest: Ice Carving Festival | Ann Arbor
Where: County Farm Park
When: February 8, 12-4 p.m.
This month, take the whole family to the County Farm Park for a magical afternoon! Enjoy refreshments and activities as you watch college ice carving teams from across Southeast Michigan compete. The teams will use techniques involving flamethrowers, chainsaws and more, so get ready for an adrenaline-fueled event!
Valentines Vendor Event | Plymouth
Where: VFW Hall
When: February 9, 1-5 p.m.
There’s no better place to get your loved one a special Valentine’s Day gift than this artisan event in Plymouth! Several vendors will be set up in the local VFW Hall that you can explore. For a list of vendors—or to sign up as a vendor yourself—visit the event’s Facebook page.
Sports
Annual Curling Fest | Chelsea
Where: Chelsea Arctic Coliseum
When: February 7, 8-11:59 p.m.
Photo courtesy of the Chelsea Area Chamber
Organized by the Chelsea Area Chamber, Curling Fest 2020 is an entire event of curling fun for beginners and experienced competitors alike! Team tournaments are scheduled for an hour Friday, February 7 to compete for the Chelsea Curling Cup. You can enjoy all-you-can-eat pizza, salad and pop—all in a heated tent from 8 p.m. to midnight!
Food + Drink
Whiskey & Wings Bar Crawl | Ann Arbor
Where: Bar Louie
When: February 15, 4-11:59 p.m.
Who knew that wings and whiskey pair perfectly together? Bar Louie did! This month, they’re hosting a special Whiskey & Wings bar crawl where you’ll get to explore several different locations, taste special pairings, enjoy exclusive specials and so much more. Click here to get your tickets.
Artini 2020 | Ann Arbor
Where: Multiple Locations
When: February 21, 6:30-10 p.m.
Photo courtesy of the Ann Arbor Art Center
This fundraising event brings together the town’s best bars, restaurants and local martini connoisseurs for an evening of mixology fun! Benefitting the Ann Arbor Art Center, Artini guests will visit several local spots—including The Alley Bar, Ann Arbor Distilling Company, Babs’ Underground and many more—and then text in a vote for the People’s Choice Award.
Happy February!
How are you planning to spend our coldest month? Let us know in the comments below!