Things to Do in Washington State in February
Kristine Aono's "Daruma of Resilience" from the Washington State History Museum's upcoming exhibit reflects on the effects of Japanese American incarceration in World War II.
February isn't a regular month—it's a fun month. With only Valentine's Day and a mere 28 days to endure, it's a time to learn something new or, for antique fans, buy something old. Festivals and activities celebrate the low-key vibe of winter without all that pesky holiday stress.
The Great Junk Hunt
February 3–4
A roving antique market heads to the Evergreen State Fairgrounds in Monroe for indoor shopping. Items tend to the charmingly vintage with a farmhouse aesthetic—think old washboards and ceramic pitchers, plus refurbished and upcycled decor. Early entry tickets allow for first pick of the one-of-a-kind finds.
Leavenworth Snowshoeing
Fridays and Saturdays, February 4–25
For a snowy trek minus the city environment, the Leavenworth Fish Hatchery presents a mile-long snowshoeing route through Icicle Creek. Guides offer facts about Leavenworth wildlife—as well as insight on how to preserve it—during the one-mile route. The hatchery, responsible for raising chinook salmon, is open for self-guided tours daily.
Resilience: A Sansei Sense of Legacy
Opens February 4
A new exhibit reflects on the generational effects of Japanese incarceration at the Washington State History Museum in Tacoma, presented from the perspective of third-generation Japanese American artists. Some use various traditional Japanese art mediums like boro stitching and kintsugi, while others utilize more modern techniques like experimental photography. Elsewhere in the museum, Skate: Rinks, Derbies, and Discos in Washington Skate History opens February 11 and celebrates our grooviest pastime.
Whale Tales
February 18
Happy World Whale Day to all who celebrate; the WET Science Center in Olympia, a kid-minded activity hub operated by a wastewater management nonprofit, sure does. The weekly Saturday activity is dedicated to cetaceans with whale crafts, and the rest of the center offers hands-on exhibits devoted to the wonders of water. Think of it as a children's museum that turns sewer systems into legit fun.
Red Wine and Chocolate
February 17–20
Wineries across the Yakima Valley offer a red wine and chocolate pairing in an annual festival of indulgence. Tasting rooms in Yakima, Selah, Wapato, Zillah, and Prosser mark Valentine’s Day (or rather a late Valentine’s weekend), some with additional discounts and activities served alongside chocolate snacks. Schab's Bier Den in downtown Yakima hosts a Valentine’s market stocked with locally crafted jewelry and other goods.
Wintergrass
February 23–26
The family-oriented country and bluegrass music festival returns to Bellevue. The Hyatt Regency and Westin hotels (connected by skybridge) have a full schedule of performances, but the event also includes several workshops like songwriting, banjo, and film scoring. Tickets are free for kids, and this year features a spotlight on the music of Louisiana.
