Top 10 Things To Do in February 2025

By: Sam Ornig 01/31/2025

There’s a flurry of entertainment in Lake County this February and you’re invited! Brave the frosty February temps for some outdoor fun at winter festivals and ice fishing derbies, or stay warm and cozy with some hot cocoa and cookies or at one of the many musical and theatre performances in the land of lakes. Don’t forget about our Lake County Flavor Festival, where you can savor the rich flavors of local food and drink from some of Lake County’s favorite establishments.

Check out our Top 10 Things to Do in February and visit our calendar for more upcoming events.

1. Lake County February Flavor Fest (All February)

Lake County February Flavor Fest invites food enthusiasts to embark on a culinary journey, with over 100 participating restaurants offering prix fixe menus and special offers for the month of February. This annual event, a celebration of local flavors and talent, encourages residents to explore the diverse cuisine in their hometowns and throughout the land of lakes. Lake County Flavor Fest not only supports local restaurants but also offers diners a chance to "Check In to Win," with exciting prizes. Don't miss this culinary extravaganza – make your reservations early and share your dining experiences on social media using #LCFlavorFest and #LetsGoLakeCounty!

2. Ice Fishing Derbies (Select dates in February)

It may be cold in Lake County, but that’s no excuse not to get some fresh outdoor air and healthy sunshine. Bundle up and show off your fishing skills at one of the ice fishing derbies held in Lake County this February:

• LVVA Ice Fishing Derby in Wauconda (Jan. 31-Feb. 2) INFO»
• Chain O' Lakes Ice Fishing Derby and Winter Festival in Antioch (Feb. 8) INFO»

3. Black History Month Happenings (All February)

Lake County boasts a rich history with deep connections to the Black community. The vibrant influence of Black culture echoes across various aspects of tourism here in the land of lakes. During the month of February, honor the contributions of Black pioneers, intellects, artists and impactful movements. Explore the array of Black History Month programming taking place in Lake County.

• 42nd Annual Profiles in Excellence: Untold Stories Celebrating Local African American History and Legacy in North Chicago (Feb. 2) INFO»
• Black History Celebration at Jack Benny Center for the Arts in Waukegan (Feb. 8) INFO»
• Always Giving Service, Never Taking Credit: The John Wooten Story in Highland Park (Feb. 19) INFO»
• 40th Annual Salute to Gospel Music in Waukegan (Feb. 22) INFO»
• Black History Celebration in Zion (Feb. 22) INFO»

4. February Festivals (All February)

Our Lake County communities have an array of enriching events scheduled throughout February. Challenge yourself to a frosty 5k or fishing derby and warm up at a cozy cocoa crawl. Discover creations made by local artists and makers. Stroll through our beautiful downtowns while perusing the small shops. Enjoy delightful drinks and fabulous food during Lake County February Flavor Festival. Explore all the February festivities that await you in Lake County, Illinois!

• Lake County February Flavor Festival (Feb. 1-28) INFO »
• Frozen Tundra 5K and Post Race Party in Lincolnshire (Feb. 2) INFO »
• Year of the Snake Lunar New Year Celebration at Hawthorn in Vernon Hills (Feb. 2) INFO »
• 42nd Annual Profiles in Excellence: Untold Stories Celebrating Local African American History and Legacy in North Chicago (Feb. 2) INFO »
• Chain O' Lakes Ice Fishing Derby and Winter Festival in Antioch (Feb. 8) INFO »
• Cocoa Crawl in History Long Grove (Feb. 8) INFO »
• Family Dance Glow Party in Fox Lake (Feb. 8) INFO »
• Black History Celebration at Jack Benny Center for the Arts in Waukegan (Feb. 8) INFO»
• Cookies & Cocoa Children's Valentine's Day Party at Lambs Farm in Libertyville (Feb. 8) INFO »
• Street Scenes "Saddle Up!" Student Show at Carmel Catholic High School in Mundelein (Feb. 14-15) INFO »
• ArtWauk in Waukegan (Feb. 15) INFO »
• Let's Wine About Winter in Libertyville (Feb. 22) INFO »
• 40th Annual Salute to Gospel Music in Waukegan (Feb. 22) INFO»
• Black History Celebration in Zion (Feb. 22) INFO»
• Lake County Craft Beer Festival at Lake County Fairgrounds in Grayslake (Feb. 22) INFO »
• Hot Chocolate Walk in Downtown Antioch (Feb. 24) INFO »

5. Theatre in Lake County (Select days throughout February)

Lake County boasts a vibrant theatre scene, offering a diverse range of performances that captivate audiences throughout the year. From community theaters to professional productions, the local theatres in Lake County provide enriching experiences for both residents and visitors alike.

• Year of the Snake Lunar New Year Celebration at Hawthorn in Vernon Hills (Feb. 2) INFO »
• "Joseph and the Technicolor Dreamcoat at Marriott Theatre in Lincolnshire (Feb. 5-March 30) INFO »
• First Friday Funnies Stand-up Comedy at Improv Playhouse in Libertyville (Feb. 7) INFO »
• "Mystery of the Class of '57: A Valentine's Murder Mystery in Libertyville (Feb. 14) INFO »
• "I and You" at Citadel Theatre in Lake Forest (Feb. 21-March 23) INFO »
• "The Magic School Bus: Lost in the Solar System" at Marriott Theatre in Lincolnshire (Feb. 21-March 29) INFO »
• "for colored girls who have considered suicide / when the rainbow is enuf" at the College of Lake County in Grayslake (Feb. 28-March 8) INFO »

6. Valentine's Day Events (Select days throughout February)

Love is in the air in Lake County, so be sure to make your Valentine’s Day plans in the land of lakes. With enchanting dinner experiences and unique events designed for diverse tastes, Lake County offers an abundance of Valentine's Day festivities to make hearts flutter. Book your reservations and set your plans for one of the following Valentine’s Day events, and watch for more Valentine’s Day events on our website and social media.

• You, Me and Four Roses at 129 Center Cut in Grayslake (Feb. 6) INFO »
• Love on Tap Market at Buffalo Creek Brewing in Long Grove (Feb. 7) INFO »
• Couple Paint-Along in Fox Lake (Feb. 7) INFO »
• Chicago Valentine's Craft Show at Gurnee Mills (Feb. 7-9) INFO »
• Cupid's Court Event and Craft Show at Hawthorn Mall in Vernon Hills (Feb. 8) INFO »
• Valentine's Wine, Cheese and Chocolate Flight at Lynfred Winery in Wheeling (Feb. 13-16) INFO »
• Family Valentine's Day Party at Timothy O'Toole's in Libertyville (Feb. 14) INFO »
• Valentine's Day at Beelow's Steakhouse in Lake Zurich (Feb. 14) INFO »
• Valentine's Day at Side Lot in Wauconda (Feb. 14) INFO »
• Valentine's Handmade Pasta Cooking Class in Bannockburn (Feb. 15) INFO »

7. The Orchid Show of Wonders at the Chicago Botanic Garden (Feb. 8-March 23)

Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of The Orchid Show of Wonders at the Chicago Botanic Garden! Now in its 11th year, the theme of this extraordinary exhibition explores the beauty of India through the harmony of tradition and modern design. Come see the indoor galleries filled with more than 10,000 fresh, colorful blooms featured in displays honoring India’s diverse landscapes, regions and cultures, such as a floor-to-ceiling peacock, a banyan tree with cascading roots and the bright, vivid hues of Holi. This exhibition is open Feb. 8-March 23. Get tickets and learn more at chicagobotanic.org/orchid.

8. Lake County Craft Beer Festival (All February)

Lake County boasts a dynamic entertainment scene, offering a variety of concerts and comedy shows that cater to diverse tastes and ensure a lively experience for residents and visitors alike.

9. Street Scenes "Saddle Up!" Student Show at Carmel Catholic High School (Feb. 14-15)

You’re invited to Carmel Catholic High School’s largest fundraiser, Street Scenes, an annual tradition that transforms the high school into a spectacular, fun-filled venue. Street Scenes features more than 40 live bands, casino games, theatrical performances, a magic show, the popular cabaret-style student show, local food and beverage vendors, a silent auction and much more. To celebrate its 51st year, Carmel Street Scenes is going country with its “Saddle Up” theme. Get your tickets and learn more about this event at carmelstreetscenes.com.

10. Concerts in Lake County (All February)

Come check out Lake County’s dynamic entertainment scene, offering a variety of concerts and comedy shows that cater to diverse tastes and ensure a lively experience for residents and visitors alike.

• Ike Reilly Film Premiere and Concert: Don't Turn Your Back on Friday Night at the James Lumber Center (Feb. 1) INFO »
• Bella Cain at Sundance Saloon in Mundelein (Feb. 1) INFO »
• Abby Kay Acoustic Trio at Broken Earth Winery in Long Grove (Feb. 1) INFO »
• Totem Frogs at Tighthead Brewing in Mundelein (Feb. 1) INFO »
• The Sweet Caroline Tour Starring Jay White at Genesee Theatre in Waukegan (Feb. 8) INFO »
• Chicago's Own Piano Man Band at Broken Earth Winery in Long Grove (Feb. 8) INFO »
• Lake County Symphony Orchestra: "Timeless Classics: in Grayslake (Feb. 16) INFO »
• Class of '68 at Patty Turner Center in Deerfield (Feb. 19) INFO »
• Air Supply at the Genesee Theatre in Waukegan (Feb. 21) INFO »
• 40th Salute to Gospel Music in Waukegan (Feb. 22) INFO »
• Jacquelyn Vale Music at Broken Earth Winery in Long Grove (Feb. 22) INFO »
• Drumline Live at Genesee Theatre in Waukegan (Feb. 23) INFO »
• Herman's Hermits starring Peter Noon & The Association at Genesee Theatre in Waukegan (Feb. 28) INFO »

Visit our calendar to see more February events, and learn more about Flavor Festival.