During the frigid month of February, Ann Arbor comes to life with festivities of all kinds, from cozy concerts to inspiring ice festivals — and even a yeti hunt through the woods.

To help you make the most of this month, here are some can’t-miss events happening in February throughout the Ann Arbor area. Savor these final days of winter before we dive head-first into spring!

Jump Ahead: 

Arts + Culture | Community Celebrations | Sports

 

Arts + Culture

Mandy Patinkin in Concert: Being Alive | Ann Arbor

Where: Michigan Theater

When: February 6, 2024

You may only know Mandy Patinkin as an award-winning TV star, but he’s so much more! He is a Tony-winning Broadway legend and an acclaimed singer, storyteller and concert performer. See him perform at Michigan Theater in Being Alive, featuring some of his favorite Broadway and classic American tunes, from Irving Berlin, Stephen Sondheim, Cole Porter, and more! Purchase tickets for this unforgettable evening.

 

TEDxUofM 2024: Golden Ratio | Ann Arbor

Where: Power Center for the Performing Arts

When: February 9, 2024

TEDxUofM is a university-wide initiative to gather the community for an event filled with inspiration, discovery and excitement, following the model of the world-renowned TED conference. The 2024 conference “Golden Ratio” is inspired by the golden ratio, a mathematical distillation of beauty used for centuries in both art and the natural world. This year’s speakers will encourage the audience “to slow down and see the inherent splendor around them amidst a modern, fast-paced world.” Click here for more information about the conference (including the lineup of speakers) and to purchase tickets.

 

My Folky Valentine | Ann Arbor

Where: The Ark

When: February 14, 2024

Celebrate Valentine’s Day at The Ark’s My Folky Valentine, an annual celebration of romance. The show is happening on Valentine’s Day itself, so it’s the perfect way to celebrate the holiday, featuring live music from married or partnered couples who make music together. Your hosts, Annie and Rod Capps, will introduce some of their most talented friends from around the region to share the stage for an evening of love songs and non-love songs alike. Tickets are $20 for general admission or $28 for reserved seats.

 

Into the Woods | Dexter

Where: The Encore Musical Theatre Company

When: February 15–March 3, 2024

Into the Woods is a 1987 musical inspired by the book by James Lapine, featuring music and lyrics by Stephen Sondheim. This enchanting story follows a baker and his wife, plus Cinderella and Jack, each of whom have their own unique wishes. After embarking on a journey to break the witch’s curse, each person’s wish is fulfilled, but the consequences of their actions later come back to haunt them. This production of Into the Woods at The Encore Musical Theatre Company is directed by Matthew Brennan and stars Jessica Grové as the baker’s wife. The show runs from February 15 through March 3 on Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays, so there are plenty of opportunities to see it. Get your tickets here!

 

The Ark’s 37th Annual Storytelling Festival | Ann Arbor

Where: The Ark

When: February 23–25, 2024

For more than three decades, The Ark’s annual Storytelling Festival has been a local favorite, bringing spoken word storytellers to Ann Arbor from all over the world. Over the course of three days, enjoy a range of storytelling styles, with tall tales, original stories, American folklore, and more. After the Liar’s Contest on Friday night, the main event is on Saturday evening, featuring storytellers Steve Daut, Lyn Ford, LaRon William, and Paul Strickland. Sunday is a special matinee show designed for families. Click here to get your tickets — for Friday, Saturday or Sunday’s show.

 

Community Celebrations

Plymouth Ice Festival | Plymouth

Where: Downtown Plymouth

When: February 2–4, 2024

Photo Courtesy of Plymouth Ice Festival

Don’t miss the Plymouth Ice Festival taking place the first weekend of February! This world-class event features sidewalks lined with more than 60 ice carvings created by world-renowned ice carvers. Each work of art starts out as a 350-pound block of ice and is transformed into something quite spectacular. Plus, there are several special events and activities happening throughout the festival, including BINGO, a tubing run, a family petting zoo, a viewing of “Frozen,” a party lot and ice bar, and more.

 

Sports

Hunt for the Yeti | Ypsilanti

Where: Rolling Hills County Park

When: February 3, 2024

Hunt for the elusive Yeti at Rolling Hills County Park in Ypsi, following clues and riddles along the way. Hot cocoa and a snack will be provided, and prizes will be awarded for the best photo and trivia. You will be hiking short distances around the Lodge Great Room, so be sure to dress accordingly for the weather, because Hunt for the Yeti will take place rain or shine! There are three sessions available (12–1, 12:30–1:30 and 1–2 p.m.) and pre-registration is required. This event costs $5 per person.

 

Run Broadway | Ann Arbor

Where: Lowertown Bar & Cafe

When: February 10, 2024

This challenging, free fun run is designed to celebrate Ann Arbor Running Company’s love for running. Runners will meet at Lowertown Bar & Cafe at 6:55 a.m., just before the run starts. You’ll then run the 2-mile loop that begins at the top of Broadway at the Courtyards Student Apartments, and run the loop as many times as you wish. Keep in mind, this is a challenging course not for the faint of heart! Register here for this free race.

 

Winter Trail Fest 13.1 and 5 Mile Eastside | Brighton

Where: Island Lake Recreation Area

When: February 17, 2024

Photo Courtesy of Winter Trail Fest

Winter Trail Fest (often called by its relevant acronym) includes a half marathon or 5-mile race on winter trails at Island Lake Recreation Area. The more ridiculous the weather conditions, the better — and you will truly be earning your medal, hoodie and other swag! But the best part is: the race begins in the afternoon so you have all morning to relax and stretch before the madness begins. Register for this unforgettable race to secure your spot at the starting line.

 

Food + Drink

MAKERS SERIES: Bean to Bar Workshop with Harvest Chocolate

Where: Bløm Meadworks

When: February 24, 2024

Harvest Chocolate is hosting a hands-on experience at Bløm Meadworks, diving into the fascinating and delicious world of chocolate! This workshop covers the entire chocolate making process, from the moment cacao beans are harvested and fermented to the final finished product you’ll have the opportunity to taste. Learn about the entire bean-to-bar journey while enjoying your own chocolate flight from Harvest Chocolate’s seasonal lineup. Your ticket includes materials and instruction, a flight of seasonal chocolates, a 12-ounce pour of mead or cider (with non-alcoholic options available), and 10% off to-go products!

 

Happy February!

We hope you have a fantastic February!