Embrace the outdoors this February with wine walks and small-town winter festivals or keep it cozy with an intimate meal, all happening this month at these Northern Michigan events.
Please note, as these dates approach, some events may be modified, postponed or canceled due to COVID-19. Check online or call ahead to confirm details. Throughout the year, visit mynorth.com/Events for current community happenings.Â
Roast & Toast Soupscription // January 22-February 28
Need a winter warm-up? Roast & Toast in Petoskey is offering a month-long soupscription. For $20, enjoy a 7-ounce cup of soup every day. For $50, get an insulated 17-ounce thermos and refill every day.
Love Is … Art: Online Exhibit // February 1–28
Love is … happening, online at the Northport Arts Association! This online exhibit is unique in that they are featuring three ways to enjoy the arts; browse the works in person in the “Artist Gallery,” view the “Art Exhibit & Sale” online to see and select pieces for purchase or opt for the “Audio Visual Presentations” feature, where you’ll listen to a recording of an artist reading their work.
White Pine Stampede // February 1–12
The White Pine Stampede is going virtual. Racers can use the Nordic trails at Shanty Creek Resort in Bellaire from Feb. 1–12, or any favorite trail, to take part in the 10K or 20K classic or freestyle events.
re | ART Exhibit // February 1–27
Charlevoix Circle of Arts is proud to launch its 2021 season with a Juried Fine Art Exhibition titled re|ART: reflect, reject, refine, remark. The exhibit will feature works from 20 Michigan artists, many of them from the local area.
Michigan Tech’s Winter Carnival // February 3–6
Michigan Tech’s Winter Carnival started in 1922. This year, organizers are working hard to adjust many of the carnival’s outdoor events to follow current health and safety guidelines.
Winter Wine Walk // February 6, 13, 20
This wonderful outdoor event at Otsego Resort in Gaylord features a beautiful winter walk on a snowshoe path from the historical River Cabin to the beaver dam where a roaring bonfire awaits. Enjoy three different wine tasting stations along the scenic hike along with some light food fare.
The Big Paint // February 7
Join The Red Dresser Marketplace and Pieces (both based in Traverse City) for The Big Paint, an international online painting workshop. Learn how to use Chalk Paint and create a painted tea tray with step-by-step instructions. Kits available for pick up at The Red Dresser.
Beaver Dam Olympics // February 14
The Annual Beaver Dam Olympics at Otsego Resort in Gaylord features four-person teams competing in four activity relays including sack race, corn hole, beer pong and plank skis. Prizes available for 1st-, 2nd- and 3rd-place teams.
Free Fishing Weekend // February 13–14
Take your Valentine … fishing? Heck yes! Two weeks a year, residents and out-of-state visitors take advantage of Free Fishing Weekend (license fees waived and Recreation Passports are not required for entry into state parks).
Virtual Movie: “The Kiss” with Gretta Garbo // February 14–21
“The Kiss” is a 1929 American silent drama film starring Greta Gabo, Conrad Nagel and Lew Ayre in his first feature film. Based on a short story by George M. Saville, “The Kiss” bears the same title as the 1896 short that “shocked” the American public by being the first motion picture to depict a couple kissing. This is the second virtual silent movie being hosted by The Music House Museum in Williamsburg.Â
The Psychology of Environmental Stewardship // February 16
Inland Seas Education Association hosts free monthly events throughout the winter. February’s virtual ISEA Cafe is “The Psychology of Environmental Stewardship.”
John Cross Fisheries Wine Dinner // February 18
This four-course dinner at City Park Grill in Petoskey will feature classic fish entrees such as smoked trout risotto and fried perch taco bites. Wine pairings optional, presented by special guest Eric Bjorkman of Great Lakes Wine and Spirits.
4th Annual Walloon Lake Winterfest // February 20
Free ice skating in the Village Green Park, free hot cocoa bar provided by Walloon Lake Inn, live ice carving with The Ice Brigades, all-day happy hour specials from Barrel Back Restaurant, antique snowmobile show, giveaways every hour and more.
Traverse City Restaurant Week // February 21–March 6
Three-course menus will be available at participating restaurants for $25 or $35 per person. Show some love to local restaurants.Â
Oryana Online Cooking Class // February 25
Let Oryana Community Co-Op in Traverse City take the mystery out of creating a delicious curry bowl with an online cooking class.
Treetops’ Skiable Feast // February 27
Treetops’ Skiable Feast mixes cross-country skiing with five gourmet food and beverage stations along a 3.8-mile trail at the Gaylord resort. Take this trek at your own pace. Call for availability.Â
Indoor Farmers Markets // Saturdays in February
Browse indoor farmers markets on Saturday mornings at The Village at Grand Traverse Commons from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. or Boyne City at City Hall from 9 a.m. to noon. Homemade bread, honey, meat, cheese and more!