Updated for 2026
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 some PRETTY big professional sporting events, 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. Here are some places that should be on your list this Black History Month 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, a member of the Underground Railroad Network to Freedom, interprets the lives of enslaved Black people on 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 Teddy Bear Picnics to Galentine's Day Brunches and Virginia Chamber Orchestra performances, 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 unique gift ideas 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 follow the LOVE in a mini-road trip to find others in the County!) 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.
Lunar New Year
February 17
The Chinese Lunar New Year is on February 17, 2026, kicking off the Year of the Horse.
Find Lunar New Year celebrations in Fairfax County here, including the 17th Annual Chinese New Year Festival in Falls Church (Feb. 14) and an arts and culture showcase from Art Elevation Collective at Capital One Hall (Feb. 15).
Keep tabs on the landing page for more events to be added as they are announced.
President’s Day/George Washington's Birthday Festivities During America's 250th
February 16
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, especially during a year that marks 250 years since America's founding. 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 16 (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 and a special look at 250 years of George Washington.
Fairfax City Chocolate Lovers Festival
February 6-8
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.
Major Sporting Events
Winter Games
February 6 - 22
Several Fairfax County and Northern Virginia athletes will be competing in the Winter Olympics, taking place from February 6 - 22 in Milan Cortina, Italy. Cheer on these talented individuals while watching the Games from one of Fairfax County's delicious restaurants or sports bars.
Check back soon for more on these incredible local athletes!
Watch the Big Game
February 8
The Big Game kicks off on February 8, 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 from.
Premiere Lacrosse League Championships
February 27 - March 8
Premiere Lacrosse League Championships & Women's Lacrosse League at The St. James
The Premier Lacrosse League Championship Series is heading to The St. James from February 27–March 8, featuring the league’s top four teams in an Olympic-style format, alongside the return of the Women’s Lacrosse League. Tickets are on sale now.
Can't Miss National Days
Eat Ice Cream for Breakfast Day
February 7
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 7th, 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 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:
- Nashville Emerging Artists Night at The Barns at Wolf Trap - February 5-7
- Chocolate Dinner at the Mount Vernon Inn - February 6
- 3rd Annual Kiwanis Polar Dip at Lake Anne - February 7
- Falls Church Restaurant Week - extended until February 8
- This Land: An Evening with Lara Downes and Judy Collins at Reston Community Center - February 14 & 15
- Winter Wine Pairing Party at The Winery at Bull Run - February 21
- ↓D←R←O←W←N←E←R [Renword] at NextStop Theatre Company - dates through February 22
- Vienna Restaurant Week - February 27 through March 8
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!
