61 cool ways to celebrate February in South Eastern Ontario

Things are looking up, folks! February is when you can start to notice it staying a little lighter, a little longer. It’s a positive month filled with special days celebrating love and family. February even has the promise of spring peeking around the corner. In South Eastern Ontario it means more skating, sledding, snowshoeing and skiing - more time spent appreciating art, reflecting on our vibrant communities and looking to each other to remind ourselves that we live in a world-renowned stunner of a place. There’s so much to celebrate here as we continue to embrace winter in South Eastern Ontario with these 61 events.

1. Feb. 1: Kemptville Winter Carnival
Come play in the snow! Celebrate winter at the Kemptville Winter Carnival - enjoy treats, be enchanted by the fire dancers, marvel at snow sculptures, see colourful igloos, go skating, tobogganing and more!

2. Feb. 1 and 2: Kingston Antiques Show
Running for 40 years and a winter highlight for antiques and vintage collectors throughout Ontario and Quebec, the Kingston Antiques Show, “Cabin Fever”, is one of Canada’s premier shows. Set for Portsmouth Olympic Harbour Centre, it features some of the best dealers offering a diverse selection of furniture, country, fine formal and mid-century modern, folk art, fine china, glass, silver, jewellery, textiles, nostalgia, books, tools, retro and more. 

3. Feb. 1: World Wetlands Day Coops March Conservation Area
Explore the importance of wetlands at Cooper Marsh Conservation Area in South Glengarry! This free event for the whole family features interactive displays, guided snowshoe tours, a kids' nature photography exhibit, prizes, and hot chocolate by the campfire. Have fun exploring and learning together from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. 

4. Feb. 1: Dunvegan Winter Carnival
Enjoy a hearty breakfast at Dunvegan Hall then tour down the road with the family for winter activities! All are welcome to the forest, trails, frozen pond, sliding hills and more.

5. Feb. 1: The Only Lonely - Perfect Friend author talk by Lana Button
Join internationally acclaimed children’s author Lana Button as she shares songs, art and her books at the Museum of Lennox & Addington, 97 Thomas St. E. in Napanee.

6. Feb. 1: StoutFest at Prince Eddy’s
The annual celebration of stouts is back in Picton featuring your favourite local breweries with stout tasters. Live music, food, games, marshmallow roasting, a bonfire, and non-alcoholic options available - need we say more? Round up the gang and come out for fun and all the stout you can handle.

7. Feb. 1 to 17: Spirit of Winter in Kingston

Walk into a forest of twinkling lights and discover the magic of the Spirit of Winter. Designed by local artists, Jaylene Cardinal and Dakota Ward, it’s an immersive light and sound experience telling an Indigenous story through projections across Kingston’s City Hall and the Bank of Montreal building. Don’t miss this vibrant storytelling adventure, best viewed from Springer Market Square.

8. Until Feb. 8: Reelout Queer Film Festival in Kingston

This 26th instalment of this legendary event launches Jan. 30 and runs until Feb. 8 featuring 18 programs over 10 days! Head to the Screening Room on Princess Street and the Kingston Frontenac Library Central Branch on Johnson Street to see the exciting work of more than 45 filmmakers, media artists, game designers and performing artists from 14 different countries. 

9. Throughout February: Kingstonlicious
Indulge, savour and marvel at the best food in the city! It’s been five years of Kingstonlicious - the city’s premier culinary fest. Prix fix menus mean discovering inspiring dishes and signature events at restaurants across the city. Read more about Kingstonlicious here!

10. Until February 16: Belleville Theatre Guild’s The Rock

Explore the delicate nature of family relationships when they are subjected to pressure in the newest offering by the Belleville Theatre Guild, The Rock. This contemporary drama is by Canadian actress and writer, Deborah Jarvis and directed by Jeremy Hansen.

11. Feb. 1: Winterfest at McCauley Village Park

Find fun at Winterfest in Picton! Family-friendly and free - grab some chilli and hot chocolate, play games, get some free books and take in a performance from the ABC Choir. Don’t forget to stop by the Free Store, where everything is priced at zero! Enjoy time with the community.

12. Feb. 1: Road Apples: A Tribute to the Tragically Hip

Performing the music of The Tragically Hip professionally for more than three decades, The Road Apples from Kingston have played thousands of concerts at theatres, arenas, and music festivals all across Canada. Now they’re taking the stage at the Brockville Arts Centre - get your tickets!

13. Feb. 1: Eastern Ontario Craft and Gift Valentine’s Market
You’ll fall in love with this market! Forty talented vendors will be on-site in Kemptville, offering a variety of gift ideas and services. Free admission/parking, door prizes, goodies for the kids and lots of cool stuff.

14. Feb. 1: The Seed Farmer Book Tour
Transition Cornwall+ is hosting a special free event with Dan Brisebois, the co-founder of Tourne-Sol Farm, focusing on a presentation at Cline House about his book The Seed Farmer: A Complete Guide to Growing, Using, and Selling Your Own Seeds. The Seed Farmer provides everything you need to know to help integrate organic seed production into a small-scale farm or market garden!

15. Feb. 3: Glengarrian Story Slam in Cornwall
Do you have a story to share or a tale to tell? Up to 10 storytellers spin their tales and vie for top place at taleteller of the night in this fun and exciting event. Come as a storyteller or sit back as an audience member and enjoy. We hear these nights are popular in Britain and across Canada - now take part at the Glengarrian Pub!

16. Feb. 5 to 9: Rockport Winter Carnival
Chicken bowling. Yes, you read that right! This is home of winter fun on the river! Euchre, darts, bingo, shuffleboard, cornhole, pancake breakfast, children’s indoor and outdoors activities, kids' minute-to-win-it games, night skating, fireworks and lots more. Rockport is Feeling the Vibe in 2025!

17. Feb. 5 to Feb. 26: Winemaker’s House with The Royal Hotel

Every Wednesday at The Royal Hotel from 5:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. join in free wine tastings from local wineries across The County. On Feb. 5 it features Closson Chase Vineyards; Feb. 12, Broken Stone Winery; Feb. 19, Morandin Wines, and on Feb. 26 it’s showcasing Rosehall Run Vineyards. The Winemaker’s House series runs Wednesdays until April 2.

18. Feb. 6 to 9 and 13 to 16: With Love and a Major Organ

If you haven’t yet experienced theatre at Theatre in the Wings, get your seat! It’s an intimate, 40-seat performance venue in a reimagined heritage building in downtown Belleville - and it’s staging With Love and a Major Organ this month by Julia Lederer and directed by Peter Paylor. It’s a beautiful story that’s charming and funny - perfect for February.

19. Feb. 7, 14, 17, 21-22 and 28: Kingston Frontenacs home games
Cheer on the Fronts this month during six home games at the Slush Puppie Place!

20. Feb. 7 to 9: Vegas Knights at Upper Canada Playhouse, Morrisburg
Derek Marshall takes the audience on a nostalgic journey through iconic lounge music legends like Dean Martin, Elvis, Tom Jones, The Rat Pack and more. This show is unforgettable as it’s backed by a live band and features hits and stories from the 60s to the 80s.

21. Feb. 7, 13, 17 and 20: Cornwall Colts home games
Be a part of the action and watch the Cornwall Colts take on the Rockland Nationals on Feb. 7, followed by the game Feb. 13 when the Colts will go against the Ottawa Jr. Senators at the Cornwall Civic Complex. The good ol’ hockey game is the best game you can name! Next, cheer on the Colts on Feb. 17 when they face the Nepean Raiders and lastly, on Feb. 20 against the Renfrew Wolves. 

22. Feb. 7 to 9: Winterfest in Moose Creek
The fun kicks off Friday night with a Yuk Yuk’s comedy show, followed by a weekend full of exciting activities. From tug of war to log cutting and sled pulling, the indoor and outdoor activities run from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday, with a trivia night that evening followed by karaoke!

23. Feb. 7 to 9: Frost Fest in Seeley’s Bay

Celebrating 31 years! Seeley’s Bay Frost Fest kicks with free hot chocolate and hot dogs, skating and firework on Friday, Feb. 7 and continues throughout the weekend with a craft and vendor shows, a silent auction, snow taffy, kids activities, a face painter, bingo, a bake sale and a roast beef dinner with live music. On Sunday, look for an early morning ball hockey tourney!

24. Feb.  7 and 8: Phantoms of Yore at Fulford Place in Brockville
An exclusive chance to investigate the famed haunting of Fulford Place! The Ontario Heritage Trust and Friends of Fulford Place Museum are opening the doors of the historic mansion to paranormal enthusiasts guided by the Phantoms of Yore. Journey through the history and tragedies of the Fulford Family and be a part of paranormal experiences which are reported by staff and visitors frequently.

25. Feb. 8: Great Canadian Kilt Skate, Maxville
Don your kilts! Celebrate Scottish culture with skating, Highland entertainment, refreshments and wagon rides. Bring your kilt and skates for even more fun at the Maxville & District Sports Complex from 9 a..m. to noon.

26. Feb. 8, 14 and 16: Events at Little Cataraqui Creek
Lots of winter wonder is on the schedule at Little Cat Creek Conservation Area this month! It starts Feb. 8 with a nighttime Lantern Hike, continues Feb. 14 with a Valentine’s Day Forest Therapy, and culminates Feb. 16 with an informative scat and tracks identifying hike!

Galentine’s Events in the Rideau region:

Feb 6: Gal-entines Day Candle and Floral Workshop, Laurel & Lace, Prescott

Feb 8: Blooms & Brews Galentine’s Floral Workshop, Kemptville Brewing Company

Feb 13: Galentine’s Floral & Sip Workshop, Studio Even, Brockville

Feb 13: Galentine’s Day Cocktail Party, Maple & Rose, Merrickville

27. Feb. 9 to Feb. 23: Make Your Own Endgrain Cutting Board Workshop

Join local woodworker, Mike McGuire, for an unforgettable workshop crafting a stunning endgrain cutting board. Explore the joy of woodworking while creating this one-of-a-kind piece.

28. Feb. 9: Sweetheart Brunch North Grenville

We heart brunch! The 25th Sweetheart Brunch at the North Grenville Municipal Centre is proudly presented by the Knights of Columbus, Holy Cross Council. This cherished community event celebrates 25 years of generosity, community and support, live music, draws and great food. Tickets are $10 for adults, $5 for children 6 – 11 years, and under 6 are free!

29. Feb. 13 to 17: Brockville Winter Classic

From family skates to an NHL alumni game, and from breakfast to the outdoor classic, this weekend honouring the rich history of hockey in Brockville will bring out the community! Grab your family and friends and plan to attend. 

30. Feb. 14: Love in Full Bloom - A Valentine’s Experience in PEC

No matter who you’re celebrating with, this is the perfect way to spend Valentine’s Day! Love in Full Bloom: A Valentine’s Experience is a fun collab featuring the County Creative Studio, filled with art, flowers and drinks. Think a florist-led bloom bar to create your own bouquet; pottery painting to handmake a piece which will be professionally glazed and fired, and functional mocktails so you can sip and feel great.

31. Feb. 14: Murder Mystery Valentine’s DInner and Wine Tasting
It’s a deadly vintage over at Redtail Vineyards Production building in Consecon as participants in the Valentine’s murder mystery will get into character and gather clues while listening to live music and enjoying a four-course meal provided by Stratos Greek Restaurant. Wine pairings will also be shared by Winemaker Renan, making for a memorable night!

32. Feb. 14: Cuts Like a Knife, Tribute to Bryan Adams
Witness the energy, passion and spirit of Bryan Adams’ epic rock anthems as tribute Cuts Like a Knife features timeless classics to unforgettable hits. Taking place at the Port Theatre, it’s a surefire way to have a memorable Valentine’s Day. Maybe they’ll play Everything I Do?

33. Feb. 14 to 17 and 20 to 22: Seaway Valley Theatre presents All Shook Up

See this rousing musical that will have you jumping out of your blue suede shoes with the hits of Elvis Presley! This rock n’ roll fantasy performance at the Aultsville Theatre is loosely based on Shakespeare’s Twelfth Night and is sure to fire up your night.

34. Feb. 15: Ice Fishing Fun Tournament at Hoople’s Bay, Ingleside
The third annual ice fishing fun tourney sees a chance to win more than $5,000 in cash prizes for categories like longest northern pike, walleye, perch, and more, along with a 50/50 draw, free chilli, and an early bird draw. Set for Feb. 15 from 8 a.m. to noon, come out to catch a good time!

35. Feb. 15: An Evening with James Keelaghan in Picton 
One of the most distinctive voices on the Canadian music scene, James Keelaghan has been known as a poet laureate of the folk and roots music world for almost 25 years. This month, he’s performing at Base 31 in Picton - be there to witness this special evening!

36. February 15: Newburgh Canal Bash in L&A County
Get ready for a winter wonderland! It’s the 30th anniversary of Canal Bash and it’s looking like another awesome community celebration of the season. It starts with breakfast at the Newburgh Hall, then look for all-you-can-eat chilli and hot dogs, free wagon rides, free skating on the canal, live music, bonfire and even fireworks! We hear the firefighters here are famous for their fries and Canal Tails, too. Don’t forget to cheer on the littles in the U7 to U9 outdoor hockey tourney on multiple rinks!

37. Feb. 15: Valentine’s Day at the Ranch in Athens
Fall in love with the farm at C&M Ranch! From 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. hop on a pony ride, enjoy hot chocolate, take sweetheart pictures with the goats and ponies, and get up close to adorable animals at the petting zoo! 

38. Feb. 15 to 17: Family Fishing Weekend
Get ready to reel in a big one while ice fishing! Family fishing weekend means you don’t need to buy a fishing licence if you want to fish. It’s one of four weekends during the year when you can fish in this way. Make it a date with the fam!

39. Feb. 15: Fish to Feed Ice Fishing Tourney in Iroquois
Anglers can fish anywhere, but must weigh-in their catch live. All money and food received will be donated to the local food share program in Morrisburg. Starting at 7 a.m. and wrapping up by 2 p.m., this is a popular event drawing anglers from across the region.

40. Feb. 15: Moonlight Ski/Snowshoe at Upper Canada Migratory Bird Sanctuary
Ski or snowshoe under the stars! Experience the beauty of evening at Upper Canada Migratory Bird Sanctuary in Ingleside from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. No gear? No problem! Rentals are available. A unique winter adventure! The sanctuary is also hosting a Family Day barbecue on Feb. 17, to feed the birds, walk, ski or snowshoe the trails and even take part in the Great Backyard Bird Count on Feb. 17 from 11 a.m to 4 p.m.

41. Feb. 15: Valentine’s Market in Gananoque
Love is in the air! This Valentine’s weekend market is set for Chrysler House fine inn, dating back to 1826. Stop by to shop a wide variety of vendors and enjoy complimentary hot chocolate at this love-filled market. Happy Heart Day!

42. Feb. 16: Forest Bathing Guided Walk at Frontenac Provincial Park
Immerse yourself in the forest and find balance, a deeper connection and belonging in the natural world. Relax and allow the forest to rejuvenate your soul. The walk is guided by Claire Beach and is three hours, including special forest tea and snacks.

43. Feb. 17: Family Day in Amherstview

From noon to 2 p.m. at the W.J. Henderson Recreation Centre, join in an action-packed afternoon with free activities! A free public skate is augmented by emergency services truck tours and giveaways, a colouring and Lego station, a bouncy castle, a photo booth and much more!

44. Feb. 17: Family Day in South Frontenac

Make memories at this annual event! Families are welcome at the Frontenac Community Arena from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. for free indoors and outdoor fun and public skating. Look here for snow tubing, horse-drawn wagon rides, free hot chocolate, loads of activities and more!

45. Throughout February as weather permits: Skate the Lake Oval on Big Rideau Lake
Imagine the freedom of gliding over the lake on a 1 km oval with the wind in your hair! That’s the scene at Portland on Big Rideau Lake right now. The folks with Portland Outdoors clear and maintain the oval daily and it provides a unique opportunity to enjoy the Rideau Canal in winter. Sign up for the Skate the Lake Challenge to log your laps!

46. Feb. 17: Family Day at the Farm, Spencerville
Giddy up to Happy Little Farmstead for a fun-filled farm day! Bring your loved ones for indoor and outdoor activities like face painting, crafts and colouring, corn bin, play houses, games, friendly farm animals, outdoor play area and a fire pit with s’mores. 

47. Feb. 17: Family Day Fun at the Thousand Islands Boat Museum
Back at the waterfront, enjoy family day with free activities at the museum from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.! Enjoy hot dogs, hot chocolate, a bonfire and take home crafts for young River Rats. Wagon rides will be available, and look for a special guest, River Mermaid Brie.

48. Feb. 18: Tracing a Black Presence in Kingston and Beyond
This Tuesday Night at the Museum presentation at the Museum of Lennox & Addington is a celebration of Black History Month. While Kingston shows an absence of early recorded Black history, the archives in Kingston and beyond definitely show the area had a Black presence. This talk is about how archives have helped fill in the historical blanks and how public art programs are engaging the public to learn about Black history.

49. Feb. 20: BIGLAKE presents the Dior Quartet in Wellington
They’re back! This young and vibrant string quartet in residence at the Royal Conservatory of Music in Toronto, the Dior Quartet, specializes in contemporary and classical repertoire - and they’re sharing their talents again as part of BIGLAKE. This will be a very special performance, as Israel Lai has written a new commissioned work and it will be performed for the first time at this concert. Rumour has it that Israel will even be travelling to Wellington from the UK to attend the premiere performance of his piece. 

50. Starting Feb. 21: Where There’s a Will There’s a Relative Live Theatre in Selby

This is community theatre at its finest at the Lennox Theatre! Set for Feb. 21-23, 27 and 28 as well as some March dates, this comedy will ensure laughter and entertainment in Selby. Get your tickets today.

51. Feb. 21 to 23: Belleville Downtown DocFest
Film screenings at three venues, a gala film and live concert?! Sounds like a great time. This year marks the 14th annual DocFest and even features a special Saturday night screening of the Tragically Hip: No Dress Rehearsal (Part 1: Looking for a Place to Happen) follow by a Q&A with guests, Director Mike Downie and more.

52. Feb. 21 to 23: Writer’s Retreat at Pangea House in Gananoque
Find time and space to create at this remarkable retreat weekend dedicated to writing. Experience great food, beautiful small town ambiance, forging connections while networking and fabulous workshops with @cjbirchwrites - all with the backdrop of the stunning Pangea House. 

53. Feb. 22: Savour the Chill in Downtown Belleville
Back and celebrating more than two decades! The soup-tasting content sees downtown restaurants go spoon to spoon in competition for awards voted by soup samplers and judges. Running from noon to 3 p.m., bring your spoon and bundle up. Soup’s on!

54. Feb. 22: Joy and Wellness Family Friendly Affair 

Art, electric performances and a mini fair will be on hand at These 4Walls Art Gallery in Trenton for this third annual event recognizing Black History Month. Stop by for music, food, art and shopping!

Looking for more? Bust out of the house with these winter hangouts in the Bay of Quinte!

55. Throughout February: Flashback February in Prince Edward County
From natural yarn dyeing to the death penalty and from touring an authentic WWII Lancaster Bomber to astronomy, this month-long celebration brings history to life! Visit Prince Edward County in February to engage in hands-on learning events and live demos that weave the stories of The County.

56. Feb. 22: Barn Burner in Prince Edward County
Can you believe it - 21 years of Barn Burner!?! It’s true and it’s gearing up to be another memorable event. It’s a Toronto vs. Montreal showdown at Drake Devonshire with the cherished all-star hospitality hockey game and epic culinary after-party.

57. Feb. 22: Beyond 21 Hockey Tournament
Lace up and make a difference in your community! This inaugural tournament will be a day of fun, friendly competition and meaningful impact. The event at the Cornwall Civic Complex is supporting adults with developmental disabilities through Beyond 21, allowing it to maintain and expand the highly sought-after day programs to reach more people in need.

58. Feb. 22: Lyndhurst Ice Fishing Derby
Cash prizes! Local lakes! Large fish! The Lyndhurst Ice Fishing Derby is set for any fish that are in season in local lakes. Tickets are $20 per person and fish are to be weighed in at Wing’s Live Bait and Tackle.

59. Feb. 26 to March 2: Kingston Canadian Film Festival
Did you know this is the largest festival in the world dedicated exclusively to Canadian film? It’s true! The 25th anniversary of the Kingston Canadian Film Festival is a great opportunity to see new movies from our country’s most talented filmmakers. Get the popcorn ready!

60. Feb. 27: Brockville Wedding Show
Meet top-notch professionals in beauty, cakes, catering dresses, honeymoon travel, photographers and more and plan the wedding of your dreams from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the Memorial Centre in Brockville.

61. Until March 1: Cline House Gallery Juried Exhibition
This annual exhibition highlights the incredible talent and diverse perspectives of our regional art community. Visit the gallery before the end of February to have your say in the selection of the coveted “People’s Choice Award”.

Wow - there’s something happening daily here! Shake off those winter blues and enjoy some events in South Eastern Ontario.