Updated for 2025
Goodbye January, and hello February! We’re officially into the second month of the year, and with it comes a new wave of must-see attractions and events in Fairfax County. Between Black History Month, Valentine’s Day, AND the Super Bowl, plus more, there’s plenty of excitement in the area. The temperature may be dropping, but your level of fun doesn’t have to!
Here is our February round-up of things to do in Fairfax County:
This Month's Celebrations
Black History Month
February 1 - 28
February marks the annual tradition of recognizing the achievements, sacrifices, and significant contributions of African American men and women in America. Since 1976, every United States president has formally recognized February as Black History Month. Here are some places that should be on your list to delve into the wealth of knowledge and culture that is ingrained in the foundation of this region. Additionally, be sure to check out these exclusive stories about Black History sites in Fairfax County:
- Gum Springs, the oldest African American community in Fairfax County, was established in 1833 and continues to thrive today.
- Laurel Grove School, created to educate the first generation of Black children born to freedom.
- Tinner Hill, where the first rural branch of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) was initiated in the United States.
- Sully Historic Site, which is a member of the Underground Railroad Network to Freedom, interprets the lives of enslaved Black people at the former plantation.
- Road to Freedom, which takes a look at the program developed by Civil War Trails and the American Battlefield Trust to explore the multifaceted experiences of African Americans in Civil War-era Virginia
Celebrate LOVE
📸@boboandchichi - LOVEwork sign at the Workhouse Arts Center
It’s no secret that February brings a celebration of love and romance. Whether you’re spending Valentine’s Day with a significant other, family, or friends, there are a variety of ways to celebrate love this month. From a Sweetheart Show and Dance to learning how to decorate your own cake, check out our constantly updated list of V-Day events that are sure to make that special someone swoon. Or, plan an unconventional date night for a unique and memorable experience. Need gift ideas? Check out some of these Winter Must-Haves from area makers that may just make the perfect surprise for your special someone.
If you want to plan a romantic getaway to Fairfax County, here's your comprehensive guide to a memorable trip away.
Hot tip: If you love spotting the best photo ops, you’ll want to snap a pic with our bedazzled LOVEwork sign at the Workhouse Arts Center (or find others in NoVa following the LOVE!) You can even make it into a challenge by hitting all of Fairfax County's most Instagrammable spots! For more unusual photo ops, check out these rather interesting Selfie Spots.
Late Lunar New Year Celebration
February 1
Celebrate the Year of the Snake on February 1 at Tysons Corner Center to enjoy live performances featuring a lion dance, Guzheng, Indonesia dance, and a fashion show. End Lunar New Year with one last exciting event!
Watch the Big Game
February 9
The Big Game kicks off on February 9, pitting two champion football teams against one another to win the world title. Whether you’re watching for the game or for the hilarious commercials, one thing’s for certain: cold beer, chicken wings, and a good view of the TV are an absolute MUST. Check out Fairfax County’s best sports bars for super-sized televisions and not a bad seat in the house. If you're watching the game at home or at a hotel, these award-winning restaurants offer delicious takeout to make your game day experience both fun and tasty! For locally-made craft beer to match, we have more than a dozen craft breweries to pick up from.
President’s Day/George Washington's Birthday Festivities
February 17
Image courtesy @virginiaflair / Virginia Tourism Corporation
Did you know that George Washington was a former resident of Fairfax County? The Capital Region holds a rich history regarding our country’s leaders. Make the most of the long weekend by learning something new about the foundation of our country. Here are some suggestions for ways to dive into these leaders' legacies.
Hot Tip: George Washington's birthday is on February 22. In celebration, George Washington's Mount Vernon is offering free admission on February 17 (must reserve tickets in advance) and will be offering special programming all day long on February 22. For more George Washington fun, here are 12+ ways to walk in his footsteps in the Washington, DC area.
Paw Patrol Live
February 1 - 2
Image Courtesy of Paw Patrol Live
From the beloved Nickelodeon series PAW Patrol comes an exciting live show, "A Mighty Adventure," brought to you by George Mason University - EagleBank Arena. Immerse yourself in a thrilling adventure mission alongside favorite characters such as Ryder, Marshall, Chase, and Skye. Paw Patrol Live is not just for younger audiences, but the entire family is invited to join in the fun and contribute to the excitement of saving the citizens of Adventure City in person. Don't miss this special opportunity for an adventure-filled experience on February 1-2.
Bonus: Save 20% on select tickets with the code PUP20. (Offer valid for a limited time!)
Fairfax City Chocolate Lovers Festival
February 2 - 4
Chocolate lovers, mark your calendars because the sweetest event of the year is BACK! The annual City of Fairfax Chocolate Lovers Festival returns the first weekend of February! Enjoy three days of chocolatey indulgence, featuring local chocolatiers, vendors, chefs, and more.
Can't Miss National Days
Eat Ice Cream for Breakfast Day
February 1
Did you hear the scoop? It seems like there’s a dedicated day for everything nowadays, and National Ice Cream for Breakfast Day is no exception! Surprise the family with an unconventional breakfast on Saturday the 3rd, and head to one of Fairfax County’s many delicious ice cream shops.
National Drink Wine Day
February 18
Wine down and stay awhile on National Drink Wine Day, celebrated annually on February 18! Fairfax County is home to two historic and beautiful vineyards - Paradise Springs Winery in Clifton, VA, and The Winery at Bull Run in Centreville, VA, plus a cool urban winery on Richmond Highway (Woodlawn Press Winery) and the only Ethiopian honey wine tasting room in America (Negus Winery.) Considered by many to be the "Gateway to Virginia Wine Country," these wineries are the closest to Washington, DC and are home to a selection of some wonderful, award-winning Virginia wines.
Special Events
Add these special events to your calendar for a memorable February:
- DC Restaurant Week until February 2
- Falls Church Restaurant Week until February 9
- Chocolate Dinner at Mount Vernon Inn on February 7
- Stout Fest 2025: The Ultimate Dark Beer Event of The Season at Mustang Sally Brewing Company on February 15 - 16
- Capital Remodel + Garden Show at Dulles Expo & Conference Center on February 21- 23
What’s on your agenda this February? Don’t forget to use #FXVA and @VisitFairfax on social media for a chance to be featured on our platforms!
