The shortest month of the year is packed with happenings and events in Chicago this February!
From Black History Month activities and theater weeks to Lunar New Year celebrations and Fat Tuesday festivities, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
This guide highlights the best things to do in Chicago in February 2026, including major events, recurring winter activities, and a curated choice of unique local experiences.
Things to Do in Chicago in February 2026
Use the guide below to explore the best events and experiences happening in Chicago this February. This page is updated regularly as new events are announced and details change throughout the month.
Top Events: Must-attend highlights of the month.
Recurring Activities: Regular events worth adding to your calendar.
The Curated List: Editor-approved events, pop-ups, and unique local finds.
Top Events in Chicago in February
Experience the most popular Chicago events this February.
Chicago Restaurant Week
Now – February 8th | Various Locations
Food lovers, rejoice! Chicago Restaurant Week is back, featuring over 550 restaurants across the city and the Chicago suburbs. Enjoy specially curated prix-fixe menus priced at $30 for brunch or lunch and $45/$60 for dinner. It’s the perfect time to revisit your favorites or discover new culinary gems.
Black History Month in Chicago
February 1st – 28th | Various Location
Honor Black history in Chicago in 2026 with meaningful events, cultural experiences, and activities that extend beyond the month. Explore museums, performances, and local initiatives to celebrate and learn all year long.
Chicago Theatre Week
February 5th – 15th | Various Locations
Experience live theater in 2026 at a discounted rate during Chicago Theater Week. This is a great Chicago event if you’re an arts and culture love. During Chicago Theatre Week guests can enjoy more than 100 performances at theaters across the city with ticket prices ranging between $15 – $30.
Chicago Auto Show
February 7th – 16th | McCormick Place
First staged in 1901, the Chicago Auto Show is one of North America’s largest auto expositions. This year marks its 117th edition, featuring the latest vehicle models, concept cars, and cutting-edge technology.
The Orchid Show at the Chicago Botanic Garden
February 7th – March 22nd | Chicago Botanic Garden
Experience the 2026 Orchid Show: Feelin’ Groovy at the Chicago Botanic Garden, featuring 10,000 vibrant orchids with floor-to-ceiling displays, peacock blooms, and a banyan tree inspired by India’s colors and Holi festival. Special events include Valentine’s Day evenings, Orchids After Hours, a new Silent Disco, photographers’ hours, and rare book exhibitions. Members and non-members can buy tickets for general admission or these unique after-hours experiences.
Valentine’s Day Activities in Chicago
February 14th | Various Locations
Celebrate Valentine’s Day in Chicago with 2026’s best ideas for romance and fun. From cozy dinners and live music to interactive classes, indoor gardens, spa experiences, and unique staycations, there are plenty of ways to create memorable moments with a partner, friends, or yourself.
Fat Tuesday in Chicago: Where to Eat, Drink & Celebrate Mardi Gras
February 15th | Various Locations
Let the good times roll with Chicago’s best Fat Tuesday event, paczki bakeries, Mardi Gras parties, and New Orleans–inspired specials happening across the city:
- Lowcountry South Loop: Mardi Gras celebration with Southern favorites, festive cocktails, and a lively party atmosphere. A go-to for Cajun-inspired food and Fat Tuesday vibes.
- Roeser’s Bakery: A Chicago institution known for its legendary paczki. Expect classic and filled flavors like apple, blueberry, prune, and custard. Pre-orders strongly recommended due to high demand.
- Weber’s Bakery: Another longtime favorite for paczki season, offering traditional Polish-style paczki perfect for Fat Tuesday indulgence.
- Bettie’s Chicago: Homemade Paczki Baking Workshop – Hands-on paczki-making class led by Baker Bettie. Learn how to fry and fill jam-packed paczki from scratch. Ages 16+; tickets required.
- Central Park Bar: – $6 Frozen Hurricanes all night long, plus half-price happy hour to kick off Fat Tuesday early.
- Cody’s Public House – Mardi Gras Gumbo Cook-Off plus a Fat Tuesday party featuring a FREE New Orleans–style buffet with gumbo, jambalaya, and classic NOLA sides.
- Easy Bar: Annual Fat Tuesday bash with New Belgium Brewing, drink specials, half-price happy hour, and complimentary King Cake slices while supplies last.
- Estelle’s: Late-night Mardi Gras dance party with DJ sets, Hurricane specials, festive beads, and extended happy hour.
- Norman’s Bistro: Ticketed Mardi Gras bash with Cajun cuisine, live brass band, DJs, mask contest, raffles, and themed décor. Standing room and table options available.
Argyle Lunar New Year Celebration
February 21st | Uptown Celebrate the Year of the Horse with Uptown United at teh annual Argyle Lunar New Year Celebrate. Guests can enjoy a parade, cultural performances, pop-ups and more at this family-friendly event in Uptown.
Looking for Chicago events and things to do in Chicago this weekend? Check out the events calendar.
Recurring Activities to Experience in February
Need a reason to step out of the house this winter in Chicago? Explore something different this month with these ongoing Chicago winter activities and indoor experiences. Challenge yourself, learn a new skill, and make the most of your time with these unique indoor things to do in Chicago.
- All-Season Patio Hangouts: Sip cocktails and savor seasonal menus on Chicago’s best-heated patios.
- Candle-Making Class on the Magnificent Mile: Design your custom candle while enjoying a chic atmosphere.
- Deep Dish Cooking Class at Pizzeria UNO: Learn to craft Chicago’s iconic deep-dish pizza.
- Escape Game Chicago: Solve puzzles in immersive escape rooms in downtown Chicago.
- Downtown Chicago and West Town Neighborhood: Explore two Chicago neighborhoods great for cold-weather hangouts and cozy dinners.
- Interactive Chicago Museums: Dive into vibrant creativity at the Museum of Ice Cream or the colorful Color Factory.
- Free Chicago Museum Days: Take advantage of free or discounted admission at museums.
The Curated List of Chicago Events this Month
Here is my handpicked list of the city’s best events, activities, and hidden gems to enjoy this month in Chicago.
Community Soup Night at Co-Prosperity Chicago
What: A community-centered food event featuring soups from some of Chicago’s most beloved restaurants and chefs, plus live DJs and a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere.
When: February 11, 2026 | 6 p.m. – 9 p.m.
Where: Co-Prosperity Chicago
Link for more information: Community Soup Night
Handmade Market Chicago
What: A curated handmade market connecting local makers with people who appreciate truly one-of-a-kind goods. Features 30+ artists and vendors selling art, home goods, accessories, and more.
When: February 14, 2026 | 12:00 -4 p.m. Where: Empty Bottle
Link for more information: Handmade Market Chicago
Josh Johnson: Flowers Tour
What: A stand-up comedy performance from Josh Johnson, known for sharp observational humor and nationally recognized specials and appearances.
When: February 13 – 15, 2026
Where: Chicago Theater
Link for more information: Josh Johnson Flowers Tour
Al Burts Solo Exhibition: “The Fabric of Us”
What: A solo exhibition by Washington, D.C.-based artist Al Burts celebrating 100 years of Black History Month through textile-inspired visual storytelling.
When: February 20, 2026 | 6:00 – 10 p.m.
Where: Gallery Guichard
Link for more information: The Fabric of Us Exhibition
66th Annual UChicago Folk Festival
What: Live performances in the evening plus free daytime music, dance, and folklore workshops open to the public.
When: February 20 – 21, 2026
Link for more information: UChicago Folk Festival Workshops
South Side + Friends Chef Series: Justice of the Pies
What: A one-night-only guest chef dinner featuring Maya-Camille Broussard of Justice of the Pies as part of the South Side + Friends chef collaboration series.
When: February 25, 2026
Where: House of Gaz, Bridgeport
Link for more information: South Side + Friends Chef Series
February in Chicago
What’s the weather like in Chicago during February?
February in Chicago is still deep winter. Average highs reach around 36°F (2°C), while lows can dip to 22°F (-6°C). Snowfall is common, with the city typically seeing 8–10 inches (20–25 cm) during the month. You’ll experience a mix of crisp, sunny days and overcast skies, so dress in layers and don’t forget your scarf, gloves, and boots—wind chills can make it feel much colder.
Is February a good time to go to Chicago?
Is February a good time to go to Chicago?
Absolutely. February will be chilly, but the city is quietly buzzing with Valentine’s Day pop-ups, Lunar New Year parades, and winter events like the Chicago Auto Show. It’s the perfect time to explore neighborhoods without crowds, snag off-season hotel and flight deals, and dive into cozy indoor activities like museum days and speakeasy nights.
What to do in Chicago in February for free?
What to do in Chicago in February for free?
Chicago has plenty of winter-friendly free activities. Stroll through Millennium Park to see iconic landmarks like Cloud Gate (“The Bean”) dusted with snow. Ice skate for free at the McCormick Tribune Ice Rink or the Skating Ribbon at Maggie Daley Park if you bring your own skates. Some museums, including the Field Museum and Shedd Aquarium, offer free days for Illinois residents—check schedules in advance. February also brings free cultural celebrations, like Lunar New Year parades and performances in Chinatown and Uptown.
What to Look Forward to in February 2026
Winter in Chicago doesn’t have to be about staying inside. February offers a mix of cultural celebrations, food-focused experiences, and creative adventures to keep the city feeling vibrant. Whether you’re wandering galleries, attending a festival, or embracing seasonal outdoor activities, there are endless ways to make the most of the month—and uncover Chicago’s hidden gems along the way.