Things To Do This Weekend February 2-6, 2026

By: Stephanie Wylie 02/04/2026

When the February chill settles over Lake County, the community doesn't just retreat indoors; it finds new ways to ignite its spirit. From the rhythmic pulse of live bands to the steam rising from a cup of hot cocoa, there's plenty to do in the Land of Lakes. These midwinter gatherings offer a pause, blending charitable purpose with the simple joy of discovery. The weekend serves as a reminder that the best way to beat the winter blues is to celebrate together.

The festivities coincide with the Lake County February Flavor Festival, a month-long tribute to the area’s premier dining scene. This culinary celebration invites food lovers to explore exclusive menus and special discounts at a variety of participating local restaurants.

Let's delve into the top five activities to embrace this weekend, February 2-6, 2026.

1. Street Scenes "Under the Sea" at Carmel Catholic High School

This weekend, Carmel Catholic High School’s signature fundraiser, Street Scenese=, which this year dives “Under the Sea,” will host more than 40 live bands, casino-style games, theatrical performances, a magic show, a student-led cabaret and more. As the music starts, Street Scenes once again blends celebration with purpose, a weekend of entertainment that helps shape the future of Carmel Catholic students. Now in its 52nd year, the Mundelein event continues to have a lasting impact, generating more than $13 million to support Carmel Catholic students, helping keep tuition accessible while funding academic programs, activities and resources. Dive deeper at CarmelStreetScenes.com. 

Friday-Saturday, February 6-7; 6 p.m.-midnight. Tickets start at $35. Carmel Catholic High School, 1 Carmel Parkway, Mundelein. 

2. 9th Annual Cocoa Crawl in Historic Downtown Long Grove

Historic downtown Long Grove hosts its annual Cocoa Crawl, a cozy afternoon celebration built around warm drinks, local shopping and seasonal fun. Visitors can explore shops, restaurants and gathering spots at an unhurried pace. Complimentary horse-drawn carriage rides will loop through the downtown area. Local businesses will lean into the theme with cocoa-inspired foods, treats and merchandise available for purchase, along with samples and seasonal specials. Visitors who spend $100 before tax and tip at any downtown shop or restaurant on February 7 can receive a free Long Grove souvenir mug at the Visitors Center while supplies last. Experience a warm, walkable escape from winter in Long Grove. The Cocoa Crawl runs along side Visit Lake County’s February Flavor Festival, with participants including Buffalo Creek Brewing, Chatterbox, Joanie’s Pizza and Ma and Pa’s Candy for check-in possibilities. For a full schedule of events, visit LongGrove.org.

Saturday, February 7; Noon-3 p.m. Free admission. Historic Downtown Long Grove, 145 Old McHenry Rd., Long Grove. 

3. Valentine's Day Craft Fair at Gurnee Mills

Experience creativity and retail therapy all under one roof at Gurnee Mills, where the mall hosts Hearts and Handmade, a multiday craft fair celebrating artisan-made goods. The event will transform Gurnee Mills into a bustling marketplace featuring up to 40 vendors. Visitors can browse a wide range of handcrafted items, from intricate jewelry and hand-painted ceramics to textiles, home decor and other one-of-a-kind pieces designed to stand apart from mass-produced finds. Live demonstrations scheduled throughout the weekend will offer a closer look at the creative process, giving shoppers a chance to see craftsmanship in action. For more information, visit Simon.com/Mall/Gurnee-Mills.

Friday-Sunday, February 6-8. Free admission. Gurnee Mills, 6170 W. Grand Ave., Gurnee. 

4. 2026 Black History Celebration at the Jack Benny Center for the Arts

Music, movement and storytelling will take center stage in Bowen Park as the Waukegan Park District hosts its Black History Celebration at the Jack Benny Center for the Arts. The free event invites the community to reflect on the achievements and lasting influence of African American heroes whose contributions continue to shape society today. This family-friendly event honors the legacy and impact of Black heroes through music, spoken word, dramatic readings and dance. By blending education with the arts, the celebration invites the community to explore Black history and culture through a creative, meaningful lens. For a full schedule of events, visit WaukeganParks.org.

Saturday, February 7; 5-6:30 p.m. Free admission. Jack Benny Center for the Arts, 39 Jack Benny Dr., Waukegan. 

5. Cookies and Cocoa Children's Valentine Party at Lambs Farm

A morning of sweets and simple pleasures awaits families at Lambs Farm, where Cookies and Cocoa, a cozy, kid-friendly event, is held. This drop-in event features a fully stocked cocoa bar, sugar cookie decorating, Valentine’s Day crafting and story time for children. Set inside Magnolia Café & Bakery, Cookies and Cocoa blends hands-on creativity with comforting treats, turning a February morning into a festive pause from the cold. The Magnolia Café and Bakery is also a participant in Lake County February Flavor Festival, so visitors can check in during the initiative as well. For details, visit LambsFarm.org. 

Saturday, February 7; 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Admission: Adults: $5 and children: $12. Magnolia Café & Bakery, 14245 W. Rockland Rd., Libertyville.

Remember that our annual Lake County February Flavor Fest going on all month long! And don't forget to join the Libation Trail and Flavor Fest Check-In Challenges. Click here to learn more about this month-long celebration. 

Click here to see more things to do this weekend February 6-8, 2026.