Top 10 Things To Do in February 2026

By: Stephanie Wylie 01/30/2026

February brings a packed lineup of things to see and do in Lake County, and there’s something for every kind of winter adventurer. Embrace the season with outdoor excitement at winter festivals and ice fishing derbies, or opt for a cozy escape with hot cocoa, sweet treats, and a full schedule of concerts and live theater across the county. Food and drink lovers won’t want to miss the Lake County Flavor Festival, highlighting standout bites and sips from beloved local restaurants, breweries, wineries and distilleries.

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 returns with a monthlong invitation to savor the region’s culinary scene, as more than 90 restaurants roll out prix fixe menus and exclusive deals throughout February. The annual celebration spotlights local chefs and flavors while encouraging diners to explore everything from neighborhood favorites to hidden gems across the land of lakes. Along with supporting local eateries, the festival adds an extra incentive with a “Check In to Win” promotion featuring prizes for participating guests. Plan ahead, book your tables early and join the conversation by sharing your dining adventures with #LCFlavorFest and #LetsGoLakeCounty.

2. FEBRUARY FESTIVALS (ALL FEBRUARY)

February in Lake County brings a lively lineup of festivals that turn the winter season into a celebration of food, culture and community. From culinary showcases and craft beverage events to art fairs and themed gatherings, the month offers plenty of reasons to get out and explore. 

• Lake County February Flavor Festival (Feb. 1-28) INFO »
• Alpine Fest at Buffalo Creek Brewing Co. (Jan. 30-31) INFO »
• O'Toole's Wing Fest (Jan. 31) INFO »
• Frozen Tundra 5K and Post Race Party in Lincolnshire (Jan. 31) INFO »
• Lake County Joy Summit (Jan. 31) INFO »
• 43rd Annual Profiles in Excellence: Origin Stories in North Chicago (Feb. 1) INFO »
• Street Scenes "Under the Sea" at Carmel Catholic High School (Feb. 6-7) INFO »
• The Orchid Show: Feelin' Groovy at Chicago Botanic Garden (Feb. 7-March 22) INFO »
• 9th Annual Cocoa Crawl in Historic Long Grove (Feb. 7) INFO »
• Cookies & Cocoa Children's Valentine's Day Party at Lambs Farm in Libertyville (Feb. 7) INFO »
• 66th Annual Chain O' Lakes Ice Fishing Derby and Winter Festival in Antioch (Feb. 14) INFO »
• Roaring 20's Party at 28 Mile Distilling Co. in Highwood (Feb. 14) INFO »
• Park District of Highland Park's Kids' Night Out: Snow Glow (Feb. 14) INFO »
• ArtWauk in Waukegan (Feb. 17) INFO »
• LVVA Ice Fishing Derby in Wauconda (Feb. 22-21) INFO »
• Lake County Craft Beer Festival at Lake County Fairgrounds (Feb. 21) INFO »
• Back to the 80's Anniversary Party at American Place Casino (Feb. 21) INFO »
• Gurnee Comic Book and Collectibles Show at The Ten Hotel (Feb. 22) INFO »
• Love is in Bloom: 2026 Wedding Showcase at Indepenedence Grove (Feb. 22) INFO»
• Northern Illinois Boat Show at Lake County Fairgrounds (Feb. 26-March 1) INFO»
• 41st Annual Salute to Gospel Music in Waukegan (Feb. 28) INFO»
• Frozen Fest in Libertyville with Village of Fox Lake (Feb. 28) INFO»

3. Black History Month Happenings (All February)

Black History Month in Lake County features a variety of events and programs that honor the achievements, culture and lasting impact of Black leaders and communities. Through educational exhibits, performances and community gatherings, residents can reflect on history while celebrating the voices shaping the region today.

• 43rd Annual Profiles in Excellence: Origin Stories in North Chicago (Feb. 1) INFO »
• Black History Celebration at Jack Benny Center for the Arts in Waukegan (Feb. 7) INFO»
• "BlacKKKlansman" at Gorton Center (Feb. 15)  INFO»
• The History of Trinity A.M.E. Church and the Lake County African American Community at the Waukegan History Museum at the Carnegie (Feb. 19) INFO»
• "Horror Noire" at North Chicago Public Library (Feb. 21) INFO»
• Soul Food with Sylvia Workshop in Waukegan (Feb. 21) INFO»
• The Tarver Family: Black Pioneers of Waukegan at the Waukegan History Museum at the Carnegie (Feb. 4-28) INFO»
• 41st Annual Salute to Gospel Music in Waukegan (Feb. 28) INFO»
• Black History Celebration in Zion TBA

4. THEATRE IN LAKE COUNTY (SELECT DAYS THROUGHOUT FEBRUARY)

Theater in Lake County offers a vibrant mix of professional productions, community performances and youth theater that bring stories to life year-round. From intimate stages to larger venues, local theaters showcase classic plays, contemporary works, and original productions that reflect the region's creativity.

• "Little Shop of Horrors" at Marriott Theatre in Lincolnshire (Through March 15) INFO »
• Theresa Caputo Live! The Experience at The Genesee Theatre in Waukegan (Feb. 4) INFO »
• Jay Leno at The Genesee Theatre (Feb. 6) INFO »
• "Billy Goats Gruff and Other Tales" at the Gorton Center (Feb. 7) INFO »
• Loni Love Live at The Lighthouse at American Place Casino (Feb. 7) INFO»
• "Admissions" at Citadel Theatre in Lake Forest (Feb. 13-March 15) INFO »
• "Love You to Death" A Valentine's Day Murder Mystery by Improv Playhouse at Jimmy's Charhouse (Feb. 13) INFO »
• George Lopez at Genesee Theatre (Feb. 14) INFO »
• "Charlie and the Chocolate Factory" at Marriott Theatre in Lincolnshire (Feb. 13-March 28) INFO »
• The Peking Acrobats at Genesee Theatre in Waukegan (Feb. 21) INFO »
• "Clyde's" at the James Lumber Center for the Performing Arts (Feb. 27-March 7) INFO»

5. CONCERTS IN LAKE COUNTY (ALL FEBRUARY)

Dive into the local rhythm of Lake County, where our dynamic entertainment landscape serves up a curated mix of live concerts and sharp comedy. Our stages offer a high-energy escape designed to hit every note of your unique taste.

• An Intimate Evening with JJ Grey and Mofro at Genesee Theatre (Feb. 7) INFO »
• Lake County Symphony Orchestra presents 'Triumph and Tragedy' at the James Lumber Center for the Performing Arts (Feb. 7) INFO »
• Rendezvous Arts: Kaia Strong Quartet & Fareed Haque at Grton Center (Feb. 13) INFO »
• Neil Diamond & Friends: Dinner and a Show at Lindy's Landing (Feb. 13) INFO »
• Younder Mountain String Band at the James Lumber Center for the Performing Arts (Feb. 15) INFO »
• Dueling Pianos: Pianomonium at Genesee Theatre (Feb. 20) INFO»
• The Ultimate Doors: A Tribute to The Doors at Genesee Theatre (Feb. 22) INFO»
• Neil Forever: Love at the Greek Tour at Genesee Theatre (Feb. 27) INFO»
• Frontiers: The World's Number One Tribute to Journey at Groton Center (Feb. 28) INFO »
• 41st Salute to Gospel Music in Waukegan (Feb. 28) INFO »


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6. STREET SCENES "UNDER THE SEA" STUDENT SHOW AT CARMEL CATHOLIC HIGH SCHOOL (FEB. 6-7)

Street Scenes returns to Carmel Catholic High School on Feb. 6–7, transforming the campus into an immersive “Under the Sea” experience filled with music, entertainment and community spirit. More than 40 live bands anchor a packed lineup that also includes casino games, theatrical and magic performances, a cabaret-style student show, local food and beverage vendors, and a silent auction. The annual fundraiser has raised $13 million to support Carmel Catholic students by helping keep tuition accessible and strengthening academic and extracurricular programs.Get your tickets and learn more about this event at carmelstreetscenes.com.

7. Valentine's Day in Lake County (All february)

Valentine’s Day in Lake County sets the scene for romance with cozy dining, sweet treats and regional events that create memorable experiences across the region. Couples can choose from intimate restaurants, live performances and seasonal activities that turn February into a celebration of love. 

• 2nd Annual Wedding Wishes Expo (Feb. 1) INFO »
• Sweetheart Dance at Patty Turner Center (Feb. 6) INFO »
• Sweetheart Dance at Wauconda Park District (Feb. 6) INFO »
• Cookies and Cocoa Children's Valentine's Party at Lambs Farm (Feb. 7) INFO »
• Village of Antioch's Princess Dance (Feb. 7) INFO »
• Galentine's Market at Lincolnshire Marriott Resort (Feb. 7) INFO »
• Valentine's Chocolate Class with Gale Gand at the Joyful Gourmet (Feb. 7) INFO »
• Family Swim Night: Sweetheart Swim at the Waukegan Field House (Feb. 7) INFO »
• Father Daughter Date Night in Waukegan (Feb. 7) INFO »
• Valentine's Day Craft Fair at Gurnee Mills (Feb. 6-8) INFO »
• Ultimate Girls' Night Out presents Galentine's Vendor and Craft at the Vine Martini and Wine Bar (Feb. 10) INFO »
• The Station 51 Signature Wine Experience (Feb. 12) INFO »
• Sweethearts Cocktail Class at Mickey Finn's (Feb. 12) INFO »
• Valentine's Day Special at North Shore Distillery (Feb. 12-13) INFO »
• "Love You to Death" A Valentine's Day Murder Mystery by Improv Playhouse at Jimmy's Charhouse (Feb. 13) INFO »
• Galentine's Girls Night BBQ'd Productions in Lake Zurich (Feb. 13) INFO »
• Romantic Bonfire Date Night at Heller Nature Center (Feb. 13) INFO »
• Family Valentine's Day Party at Timothy O'toole's in Libertyville (Feb. 14) INFO »
• Cupcake Decorating: Mommy and Me Valentine's at the Joyful Gourmet (Feb. 14) INFO »
• Valentine's Candle Making: The Notebook at Romney Brown Candle Co. (Feb. 14) INFO »
• Wine and Chocolate Flights for your Valentine at Lynfred Winery (Feb. 11-15) INFO »
• Galentine's Day Market at the Ten Hotel (Feb. 15) INFO »
• Valentine's Barket at Harbor Brewing Co. in Lake Villa (Feb. 15) INFO »

8. ICE FISHING DERBIES (SELECT DATES IN FEBRUARY)

Ice fishing in Lake County offers a classic winter escape, with frozen lakes providing peaceful settings for anglers of all experience levels. As temperatures drop, the season draws locals outdoors to have the chance to reel in a cold-weather catch.

• LVVA Ice Fishing Derby in Wauconda (Feb. 20-21) INFO»
• Chain O' Lakes Ice Fishing Derby and Winter Festival in Antioch (Feb. 14) INFO»

9. FOR THE LOVE OF POLLINATORS EXHIBIT AT THE DUNN MUSEUM

The Dunn Museum in Libertyville opens For the Love of Pollinators on Feb. 14, a special exhibition that blends art, ecology and education through the lens of the tiny creatures that sustain healthy ecosystems. On view through May 31, the exhibition features more than 30 sculptural works from around the world and highlights pollinators native to Lake County, from backyard bees to the federally endangered rusty patched bumble bee. Included with general admission, the show also offers practical tips visitors can use at home to support pollinators and protect the landscapes they help thrive.

10. LAKE COUNTY CRAFT BEER FESTIVAL AND NORTHERN ILLINOIS BOAT SHOW AT LAKE COUNTY FAIRGROUNDS

February brings big-time events to the Lake County Fairgrounds, starting with the Lake County Craft Beer Festival on Feb. 21, where the 11th annual celebration embraces a “Fire & Ice” theme with specialty pours, live music and interactive entertainment. Craft beverage fans can sample offerings from breweries, distilleries and wineries while enjoying games, a costume contest and VIP experiences. The month wraps up with the Northern Illinois Boat Show, running Feb. 26 through March 1, showcasing more than 200 new and used boats from leading manufacturers. With show specials, accessories and expert dealers on site, the fairgrounds become a hub for both winter fun and spring planning.

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