It’s the most wonderful time of the year here at LHG! With the holiday season quickly approaching, our incredible clients have many exciting events going on. From Santa polar plunging in Switzerland to a New Year’s Eve beach ball drop, we’ve rounded up some of our not-to-be-missed events this winter. Read on for all of the fun!

 

Meditation 101 Workshop: Garden of the Gods Resort and Club – every Wednesday

Each Wednesday, Strata Integrated Wellness Spa at Garden of the Gods Resort and Club honors the mind, body and spirit with mindful meditation workshops. Taught by experienced meditation instructor, Charlene Wang MS, RD, CHC, this introduction to meditation class teaches the basic elements of mindful meditation. Each class includes an education-based, guided meditation with clear instruction and a chance to discuss and ask questions. This workshop is suitable for beginners and those with meditation experience. For more information, visit www.strataiws.com/workshops.

 

The Champagne Vault by Moët & Chandon: The Lanesborough – November 13-December 20, 2019

The Champagne Vault provides up to 12 guests a spectacular setting for private dinners as the wine cellar at The Lanesborough is transformed. Be prepared for atmospheric festive lighting, seasonal foliage, pea lights, luxurious crystal and china table settings and bespoke menus accompanied by a Glass of Moët & Chandon Brut Imperial or frozéllini on arrival. For more information, visit www.oetkercollection.com.

 

Jeweled Christmas: Natchez, MS – November 23-December 29, 2019

Recognized as one of the “Top Ten Most Unusual Christmas Displays in the United States” by USA Today, the Jeweled Christmas at The Towers in Natchez is a welcome sign marking the holiday season has arrived. The entire space is decorated top to bottom with Christmas decorations, including thousands of pieces of beautiful, vintage costume jewelry. For more information, visit www.thetowersofnatchez.com.

 

Holidays in Healdsburg Tour: Sonoma County, CA – November 29-December 31, 2019

Experience the magic of Wine Country during the holidays on a guided walking tour of charming downtown Healdsburg. Offered exclusively for five weeks each year, this cherished seasonal tradition encourages guests to sip, savor, shop, and most importantly, create memories and traditions with friends and family members. Schedule options include a four-hour day tour which starts at 11 a.m. and an evening tour which begins at 5 p.m. with appetizer stops for wine and savory bites. For more information, visit www.winecountrywalkingtours.com.

 

Christmas Market in Parc des Bastions: Geneva, Switzerland – December 4-31, 2019

This traditional Christmas Market transforms 26,000 feet of one of the most beautiful parks in Geneva, Bastions Park, into an enchanting garden. In the middle of abundant lights and scenery, visitors can follow the path that leads them to the Christmas village. There, local producers, designers and craftsmen show off their knick-knacks, delicacies and other wonderful surprises. Visit Le Chalet for fondue to warm up after circling the ice rink. For more information, visit www.geneve.com/en-us.

 

67th Annual Downtown Holiday Parade: Santa Barbara, CA – December 6, 2019

The highly anticipated holiday parade lights up State Street and brings the spirit of the holidays to over 65,000 spectators. The parade will incorporate giant balloons, marching bands, community floats, performance groups and a highly anticipated appearance of Santa Claus. This year’s theme is “A Tropical Holiday” to celebrate the laid-back attitude of Santa Barbara. For more information, visit www.downtownsb.org.

 

Art of Wellness Friday: Garden of the Gods Resort and Club – December 6, 2019

Strata Integrated Wellness Spa at Garden of the Gods Resort and Club celebrates the impact creative expression has on one’s health and well-being during The Art of Wellness. The two-hour session is a creative experience in artistic painting by renowned artist Ron Apgar. Participants enjoy wine and appetizers and leave with a personalized canvas reflective of individual discovery. For more information, visit www.strataiws.com/programs.

 

20th Annual Holiday Boat Parade of Lights: Alexandria, VA – December 7, 2019

The annual Holiday Boat Parade of Lights is a favorite holiday celebration in Old Town Alexandria where guests can see festively decorated boats that light up the sky along the Potomac River. Judges award prizes in a dozen categories for impressive boat decorations and will give away 20th anniversary special surprises. For more information, visit www.visitalexandriava.com.

 

A Day of Mindfulness: Garden of the Gods Resort and Club – December 14, 2019

A Day of Mindfulness offers a full day of practicing mindfulness with the Strata Integrated Wellness Spa community hosted by Energetic Practitioner and Registered Dietitian, Charlene Wang MS, RD, CHC,. Meditators come together to practice sitting meditation, walking meditation, mindful eating, smiling and breathing together. The day is designed to unfold naturally so everything can flow relaxingly and intuitively. For more information, visit www.strataiws.com/programs.

 

81St Christmas Cup: Geneva, Switzerland December 15, 2019

More than 2,200 courageous people will face the icy cold waters of Lake Geneva dressed as Santa or other festive characters for this favorite Geneva tradition! The Christmas Cup, the oldest and most popular race in the Township since 1934, is a must-attend event for skilled swimmers who jump in the water on a December polar morning. For those who don’t feel like taking the plunge – go visit the spectacle to cheer them on! For more information, visit www.myswitzerland.com.

 

Breakfast with Santa: Wild Dunes Resort – December 21, 2019

Held in Palmetto Hall, guests will have the opportunity to enjoy a delicious breakfast with Santa Claus. Kids can’t resist the combination of Rudolph’s pancake buffet with its loads of sweet-tooth toppings and hot chocolate. Once the whole family is rubbing their bellies, make sure to get a picture with Santa. For more information, visit www.wilddunes.com.

 

Journey of Renewal Workshop: Red Mountain Resort – December 21, 2019

Red Mountain Resort, a premier adventure and wellness destination nestled in the sweeping sandstone landscape of southern Utah, welcomes guests to celebrate Winter Solstice with a special guided meditation led by Carolyn Ford, PhD, an expert personal discovery practitioner. Guests will be led in a meditation focusing on renewal, reflection and regeneration as the day marks the beginning of the Sun’s rebirth. For more information, visit www.redmountainresort.com.

 

Grand Illumination: Boar’s Head Resort in Charlottesville, VA – December 21, 2019

This holiday season guests are invited to come to Boar’s Head Resort for a host of holiday-themed festivities for the family. Children and families are invited to have breakfast with Santa from 9 – 11:30 a.m. Families are welcome to head over The Pavilion for a morning of fun including horse-drawn carriage rides and picture opportunities. Chef Dale and his culinary team have put together an amazing breakfast display. To purchase tickets, and for more information on pricing, visit www.boarsheadresort.com.

 

Canyon Road Farolito Walk: Santa Fe, NM – December 24, 2019

Regarded as one of Santa Fe’s most beloved holiday traditions, the Canyon Road Farolito Walk takes place on Christmas Eve. Having been ventured by thousands, this famous path is accented by small, sand-filled paper bags illuminated with candles that line the streets and iconic adobe walls. As the night goes on carolers file into Canyon Road and joyfully sing for the crowds of people that annually come to this Santa Fe tradition. Visitors will immediately notice the festive lights, along with the hotels like the Four Seasons Resort Rancho Encantado and Santa Fe’s very own art galleries – all prepared for the holiday season. For more information, visit www.farolitowalk.com.

 

“Just Mercy”: Montgomery, AL – December 25, 2019 / January 10, 2020

The film “Just Mercy,” premiering in select theaters on Christmas Day and in theaters everywhere on January 10, 2020, is the motion picture adaption of world-renowned Civil Rights defense attorney and EJI Founder Bryan Stevenson’s book. The story recounts the case of a condemned death row prisoner, whom he fought to free. The movie, which filmed in Montgomery last year, features an all-star cast including Michael B. Jordan as Stevenson, along with Jamie Foxx and Brie Larson to name a few. For more information, www.justmercyfilm.com.

 

Christmas at L’Apogee Courchevel: Oetker Collection – December 25, 2019

Perched in the Jardin Alpin atop the chic skiing paradise of Courchevel 1850 in the French Alps, surrounded by twinkling stars and snow-blanketed peaks, L’Apogée Courchevel luxury chalet brings Christmas, New Year’s and Orthodox Christmas to life with vibrant, flavorful family-friendly celebrations, musical performances and a little help from one very special guest on Decemeber 25. Throughout the holiday season, Chef Jean-Luc Francois will offer delectable menus starring scallops, chestnuts and game, complemented by exquisite creations such as a gourmet meringue by pastry chef Eve Moncorger. On New Year’s Eve, the glittering festivities will include a dinner show, musicians and dancing along the theme of cabaret, disco and current hits. For more information, visit www.oetkercollection.com.

 

Christmas Getaway at Masterpiece Estates: Oetker Collection – December 25, 2019

The Masterpiece Estates by Oetker Collection is a program that allows guests private use of grand historical houses with locations in the U.K. and France. Families and large groups are accommodated with ease at the Estates, which are ideal for a Christmas getaway. For the duration of a stay, travelers are greeted and looked after by an impeccable team and talented host, delivering the same flawless service you’d expect from any Oetker Collection property. Hosts are equipped to handle every need and designed to be the guests’ personal guide, arranging and accompanying activities and ensuring a bespoke experience. The portfolio of luxurious estates currently holds nine properties but is eagerly growing with Glen Affric, Château d’Estoublon, Gordon Castle and more. For more information, visit www.oetkercollection.com.

 

Christmas & New Year’s Eve at Brenners Park-Hotel & Spa: Oetker Collection – December 25-31, 2019

Throughout the holiday season, Brenners Park-Hotel & Spa in Baden-Baden, an elegant and ideal place to celebrate togetherness and the joys of the season, welcomes guests to join in on the festivities. Gather in the Orangerie for a Christmas play, enjoy a Glühwein at Baden-Baden’s traditional Christmas market, or book a private visit with Picasso, the German Expressionists and other 20th-century treasures at the Museum Frieder Burda. Children can delight in cookie-baking sessions at the Brenners Park-Hotel & Spa Christmas bakery, while grownups will appreciate a chance to relish pure relaxation and wellbeing at the world-class Villa Stéphanie. On New Year’s Eve, guests are welcomed at Fritz & Felix for an opulent buffet followed by midnight fireworks and an afterparty in the fireplace hall. For more information, visit www.oetkercollection.com.

 

Junkanoo: Nassau Paradise Island, Bahamas – December 26-January 1, 2020

The streets of downtown Nassau come alive each holiday season with the drums, whistles and delightful dancing that begins the Junkanoo Festival. Opening the festival, the Junkanoo parade moves through the streets of downtown Nassau in the early hours of the morning. Spectators will experience a cultural extravaganza as the energy of the dancers and the beat of the music motivates the vast crowds. As soon as the music starts, all can be seen moving in their seats, on their feet, in the trees or on balconies, wherever they have found a spot to watch this soul-stirring festival. At the end of the famous Junkanoo procession, judges award cash prizes for the best music, best costume and best overall group presentation. For more information, visit www.bahamas.com/junkanoo.

 

Artists of Saint Barth Art Party: Saint Barth – December 26, 2019 and March 6, 2020

The Artists of Saint Barth association hosts one-night pop-up art parties throughout the year to highlight 10-15 local artists. The association is made up of 55 painters, photographers, sculptors and designers and parties are hosted in stunning venues such as the Christopher Hotel and the Manapany Hotel. Artists such as photographer Michael Gramm, sculptor Jean Martin and painters Chloe Chemama and Robert Danet are among those who have been featured in the past. For more information, visit www.artistsofstbarth.org.

 

New Year’s Eve Beach Ball Drop: Panama City Beach, FL – December 31, 2019

Tens of thousands of visitors are estimated to head to Panama City Beach for the New Year’s Eve Beach Ball Drop, which features not one but two countdowns, fireworks and 10,000 inflatable beach balls released from nets stretched over the streets of Pier Park. An 8 p.m. Beach Ball Drop gives kids the chance to experience the fun before they head to bed and let their parents continue the celebration with more live music and entertainment building up to midnight. Guests will ring in the New Year with a final countdown, fireworks and the lowering of a giant LED-lit beach ball on Panama City Beach’s Celebration Tower in the center of Pier Park. Standing over 80 feet tall, this tower is ten feet taller than the ball drop in Times Square in Manhattan. For more information, visit www.visitpanamacitybeach.com.

 

New Year’s Eve Celebration: Wild Dunes Resort – December 31, 2019

Guests are invited to celebrate with loved ones, remember the year’s milestones and ring in the New Year at Wild Dunes Resort’s Sweetgrass Pavilion. Adults can expect a lively DJ, light hors d’oeuvres and desserts as well as an open bar and midnight toast. Sparkling cider and a children’s-only room will be available for little ones, and party favors will be plentiful. For more information, visit www.wilddunes.com.

 

New Year’s Eve House Party: The Lanesborough – December 31, 2019

Following the huge success of 2018, for the second year running, The Lanesborough will be closing its doors for a New Year’s House Party like no other. This ticket-only event ($315 per person) is one of the most highly anticipated NYE parties in Central London, as the hotel is transformed into the most luxurious and beautiful house party in collaboration with Moët & Chandon. Taking over the entire ground and lower ground floors of the hotel, guests can expect a variety of live music and DJs across every public room of the hotel, with a unique nightclub styled setting. For ticket inquiries, email reservations@lanesborough.com.

 

New Year’s Eve: Cliff House Maine – December 31, 2019

Celebrate the last weekend of 2019 and spend New Year’s Eve with Cliff House. The signature restaurant, The Tiller, will offer two seatings and will feature a locally sourced Prix Fixe Celebration menu including champagne. For a more casual celebration, Nubb’s Lobster Shack will be open from 12 noon-1 a.m. serving all favorite Maine classics. There will be complimentary entertainment from 8 p.m.- 12 midnight in the resort’s Ocean View Terrace featuring local musician Ross McGinnis from 8 p.m.- 12 midnight, a Children’s Movie Marathon from 5p.m.- 10p.m. and a firework finale at midnight to ring in the New Year! For more information, visit www.cliffhousemaine.com.

 

New Year’s Eve Upstairs at The Kimberly – December 31, 2019

Those looking for a chic way to ring in the new decade – look no further! Upstairs at The Kimberly Hotel in New York City is one of the few rooftop bars in Manhattan that stays open year-round, with its retractable ceiling and heated floors. Guests will marvel at the city lights as the clock counts down to midnight. Conveniently located in the heart of midtown east, The Kimberly is within walking distance of holiday favorites such as Radio City Music Hall, Rockefeller Center and Times Square.  Guests are welcome to spend the day taking in the NYC festivities and join in on the New Year’s celebrations at night. For more information, visit www.kimberlyhotel.com.

 

Saint Barth’s New Year’s Celebration: Saint Barth – December 31, 2019-January 1, 2020

The ultimate St. Bart’s experience is over New Year’s, when super yachts line Gustavia’s inner harbor pier or anchor in the outer harbor (because they’re literally too big) and the rich and famous fill the island’s gourmet restaurants to toast the Old Year’s Night and New Year’s Day. There is no higher concentration of fame, wealth and glamour than St. Bart’s on New Year’s Eve. For more information, visit www.saintbarth-tourisme.com.

 

Glass Light Hotel Grand Opening: Norfolk, VA – January 2020

Norfolk’s newest hotel opening in 2020 is the Glass Light Hotel – an intellectually curious boutique hotel and glass art gallery in the heart of Downtown Norfolk’s Local Historic District. This building is reimagined from its 1912 heritage, boasting 113 masterfully detailed guest rooms and suites and a ground floor restaurant and bar providing locally sourced, seasonal cuisine and sophisticated small plates to share. Guests staying here will reside amongst Norfolk’s most luxurious accommodations, with easy access to all the city has to offer just outside the front door. For more information, visit www.marriott.com.

 

Ice Castles: New Hampshire – January 2020

Ice Castles is an award-winning frozen attraction located in the White Mountains Region of New Hampshire. The experience is built using hundreds of thousands of icicles hand-placed by professional ice artists. The castles include breathtaking LED-lit sculptures, frozen thrones, ice-carved tunnels, slides, fountains and much more. For more information, please visit www.icecastles.com.

 

Winter Fest: Concord, NH – January 2020

Concord’s Winter Fest gives recognition to New Hampshire’s epic winters by inviting guests to come out and celebrate during four-days of winter-themed fun and festivities.  Residents and visitors of the area can enjoy things like themed ice bars, ice carving demonstrations, cornhole tournaments and family movie nights. For more information, visit www.intownconcord.org.

 

Winter Wine Festival: New Castle, NH – January 2020

Presented in the luxury and comfort of the historic Wentworth by the Sea Hotel, the Winter Wine Festival will celebrate its 16th year, bringing together the superb cuisine of the Wentworth’s culinary team with winery representatives. Premium wines from around the globe amid the polished hospitality of service staff in this grand setting on a little island, off the coast of New Hampshire. For more information, visit www.winterwinefestival.com.

 

Escape the Winter with American Queen Steamboat Company – January-March 2020

American Queen Steamboat Company invites guests to enjoy the magic of a winter getaway on board its boutique-style paddlewheeler the American Duchess. Beginning in 2020, American Duchess guests will be delighted with additional regal inclusions that are now offered on every voyage. Fares will include an unlimited beverage package and prepaid gratuities, in addition to the inclusions that guests have always enjoyed. To learn more about 2020 voyages onboard the American Duchess, visit www.americanqueensteamboatcompany.com.

 

Wild Dunes Pro-Am: Wild Dunes Resort – January 8, 2020

PGA Professionals from North and South Carolina, along with three amateurs will tee it up at the Annual Wild Dunes Pro-Am January 7-8, 2020. The 36-hole stroke play event sponsored by Wild Dunes Resort and Club Car will be held at both of the Tom Fazio designed Links and Harbor Golf Courses. Prizes are awarded to the top net teams, while professionals also compete for a separate purse. For more information, visit www.wilddunes.com.

 

Charleston Restaurant Week: Charleston, SC – January 9-19, 2020

Explore Charleston will be hosting its January 2020 installment of Charleston Restaurant Week, occurring Thursday, January 9 through Sunday, January 19. Diners shouldn’t miss the chance to sip, savor and save with 11 days of delicious deals available at over 100 of the Charleston area’s most renowned restaurants. Join the conversation using #CHSRestaurantWeek, and for more information, visit www.charlestonrestaurantweek.com.

 

Providence Restaurant Week: Providence, RI – January 12-25, 2020

Providence is one of the nation’s hottest culinary destinations. Diners will discover what the fuss is all about during Providence Restaurant Week. Nearly 100 restaurants will offer mouthwatering menus with special three-course lunches for $16.95 and three-course dinners for $29.95, $34.95 or $49.95, as well as two-for-one specials. For more information visit www.goprovidence.com/rw.

 

Central to Their Lives: Southern Women Artists in the Johnson Collection: The Gibbes Museum of Art- January 17-May 3, 2020

The Central to Their Lives exhibition brings together for the first time the paintings and sculptures of forty-two diverse women artists who made significant contributions to the art of the south. This exhibition, hosted by the Gibbes Museum of Art examines the challenges female artists faced during a period in which women’s social, cultural and political roles were being redefined and reinterpreted. For more information, visit www.gibbesmuseum.org.

 

ShiverFest: Lackawanna County, PA – January 19, 2020

This extreme kayak/canoe race is only for the toughest of the tough. Participants can sign up to paddle the river or join the revelers on the banks of the Lackawanna River. A day of exercise and fun, ShiverFest draws the community outdoors during the cold winter to celebrate the valley and the river that runs through it. For more information, visit www.lrca.org.

 

A Conversation with Mary Alice Monroe: Wild Dunes Resort – January 19, 2020

Wild Dunes Resort is excited to present A Conversation with Mary Alice Monroe. The newest installation of its author series will feature a lively conversation about books, life and women of power between the New York Times bestseller, as well as authors Elizabeth Berg (Night of Miracles, Open House), Kate Quinn (The Alice Network, The Huntress) and Signe Pike (The Lost Queen, Faery Tale). Guests will enjoy a complementary signature cocktail along with refreshments. For more information, visit www.wilddunes.com.

 

133rd Ski Jumping Tournament: Marquette, MI – January 21, 2020

Ski jumpers from all over the world will gather to jump the famous Suicide Hill at an international competition in Ishpeming. This is a 133-year-old tradition that is the oldest annual, international sports competition in the United States. The creator of this club and this competition, Carl Tollefson went on to found the U.S. ski team. It is a deep and integral part of local history and it is the reason the U.S. Ski Hall of Fame is located in Ishpeming. For more information, visit www.travelmarquette.com.

 

Noquemanon Ski Marathon: Marquette, MI – January 24-26, 2020

The “Noque” is one of the premier point-to-point cross country ski epics in the U.S. It will bring over 1,200 skiers to town to race in various snowy races through the rugged hills and forests. Competitors will race anywhere from the 50K marathon, snowshoe 15 miles, snow biking, animoosh skijor 10K with dogs (called the Wild Side of the Noque), junior noque for kids and more. For more information, visit www.travelmarquette.com.

 

Fire & Ice Festival: Mount Holly, NJ – January 25, 2020

During this epic festival, over a dozen professional ice carvers, professional chili chefs and a wide variety of interesting entertainment is available for all ages to enjoy. Throughout town, ice carvers will transform 300-pound blocks of ice into beautiful crystalline works of art. For more information, visit www.fireandicefestival.com.

 

Under the Dark Sky at Drayton Hall: Charleston, SC – January 25, 2020

Drayton Hall presents an evening of stargazing at this legendary Southern estate in the Ashley River Historic District of Charleston on January 25 from 5-7:30 p.m. Hot Toddies will be served, and guests will be invited to gaze through telescopes set up on the clear, wide open unlit Drayton Hall landscape. Space is limited, reservations are required, $30 for non-members/ $20 for members. For more information, visit www.draytonhall.org.

 

Lowcountry Oyster Festival: Charleston, SC – January 26, 2020

Featuring over 60,000 pounds of oysters, the world’s largest oyster festival is returning for its 37th year, with the legendary “Oyster Shucking” and “Oyster Eating” contests, live music, wine and local beer, Pluff-a-Pallooza Children’s Area, a variety of food options and products available for purchase from Red Clay Hot Sauce. This year, local chefs will partner with local oyster farms to present their favorite version of the beloved oyster. General admission is $17.50 in advance online and $25 the day of the event. VIP tickets are $130 through Dec. 31 and $160 starting Jan. 1. For more information, visit www.lowcountryoysterfestival.com.

 

Eagle Watch Weekends: Kenlake State Resort Park, KY – January 31-February 2, 2020

Guided tours aboard the CQ Princess, a 96-foot yacht with heated cabin, led by Kentucky State Parks in partnership with the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources reveal stunning sightings of the magnificent Bald Eagle soaring over Kenlake. Alternatively, explorers can opt for a guided van tour  and keep their eyes peeled for gentle giants like elk, deer, bison and others. Friday and Saturday night reservations include educational sessions with local wildlife experts. For more information, visit  www.kentuckytourism.com/kenlakes-eagles-weekend-2020.

 

Grand Opening of the Roots 101 African American Museum: Louisville, KY – February 2020

This new museum will tell the story of the African American journey from Africa and all the ports in between. Showcasing a range of exhibits such as great Kentucky educators, musical legends, famous black figures and legendary athletes, a ‘My Life Matters’ interactive video booth and more, this museum will take visitors on an educational and emotional journey. For more information, visit www.roots-101.org.

 

Special Women’s Suffrage Exhibit at the Frazier History Museum: Louisville, KY – February 1, 2020

The 100th anniversary of Women’s Suffrage will be honored at the Frazier History Museum in Louisville. The exhibition will open February 1, 2020 and will explore the state’s journey to the vote including its stars, its villains, its triumphs and its defeats. For more information, visit www.fraziermuseum.org/womenvoteevents/2020.

 

Keene Ice & Snow Festival: Keene, NH – February 2, 2020

This annual festival in downtown Keene has something fun for the whole family. Wonderous carved ice blocks come to life and children will adore crafts at Snowman Central, musical entertainment and train rides. There’s even a special change to meet a snowman, an ice princess, a polar bear and Olaf characters! For more information, visit www.monadnocktravel.com.

 

Inaugural Civil Rights Conference: Montgomery, AL – February 4-11, 2020

Road Scholar has announced its inaugural Civil Rights Conference will take place in Montgomery February 4-11, 2020 during Black History Month. The seven-night conference will feature dynamic speakers including EJI Founder Bryan Stevenson; Carolyn McKinstry, survivor of the 16th Street Baptist Church bombing; and Sheyann Webb-Christburg, known as Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s “Smallest Freedom Fighter” who marched across the Edmund Pettus Bridge on Bloody Sunday at the age of nine. In addition to listening to groundbreaking talks, participants will visit monuments, museums and historical sites throughout the capital city. For more information, visit www.roadscholar.org.

 

Dartmouth’s Winter Carnival: Dartmouth, NH – February 6-9, 2020

Celebrating its 110th year, the annual Dartmouth Winter Carnival is organized each year by students as an ode to the winter season. Annual highlights include a polar bear swim & human dogsled races, ice sculptures and more. For more information, please visit www.students.dartmouth.edu.

 

Everglades Seafood Festival: Florida’s Paradise Coast – February 7-9, 2020

Visitors from all over descend upon Everglades City for a weekend packed with fresh seafood, drinks and wholesome fun in the sun. Organized by the Betterment Association of the Everglades Area, guests can have their pick among several seafood delicacies including delicious stone crab. Adults can enjoy a variety of live music and kids have their choice between classic carnival rides and games. For more information, visit www.paradisecoast.com.

 

Lackawanna State Park Winterfest: Lackawanna County, PA – February 9, 2020

Bring the family to Lackawanna State Park’s annual Winterfest. Gather your hiking boots, tip-ups, skates, sleds and cross-country skis to embrace all that winter has to offer. Special programs like ice rescue, dog sled demos and a winter bird walk will be scheduled during the day. For more information, visit www.events.dcnr.pa.gov.

 

UP200: Marquette, MI – February 13-17, 2020

The UP200 is one of America’s premier 12-dog, mid-distance sled dog races and draws mushers from around the US and Canada. The current race covers approximately 230 miles from Marquette to Grand Marais, with a return to Marquette along the same trail. Mushers say this is one of their favorite races, not only because of the challenging course but because of the beautiful trail, the cheering crowds and warm welcome they receive at every checkpoint along the trail throughout the Upper Peninsula. For more information, visit www.travelmarquette.com.

 

St. Andrews Mardi Gras: Panama City, FL – February 14-15, 2020

Keep the celebration going at Panama City’s St. Andrews Mardi Gras. Celebrating their 22nd Anniversary in 2019, St. Andrews Mardi Gras is the most popular and largest Mardi Gras celebration in Bay County. Featuring over 14 krewes and over 30 brightly colored floats, festive music is played along the route and tens of thousands of beads and doubloons will be tossed to the crowd of over 50,000 people! The two-day parade and festival in historic St. Andrews is filled with food, fun and music. For more information, visit www.standrewsmardigras.com.

 

Polar Roll: Marquette, MI – February 14-16, 2020

Polar Roll is the largest fat-bike event in Michigan and a proud member of the Great Lakes Fat Bike Series. Fat-bikers can choose from the 30-mile event aptly named “Danny’s Hills” or the shorter 15-mile event dubbed “Half the Hills.” Snowshoers are welcome to give the course a shot with the new Angry Bear 10K Snowshoe Run. For more information, visit www.travelmarquette.com.

 

Clarks Summit Festival of Ice: Lackawanna County, PA – February 15-17, 2020

The Clarks Summit Festival of Ice will celebrate their 15th anniversary in 2020. Watch live ice carving demos or check out the more than 50 finished sculptures lining the streets of downtown Clarks Summit. This year’s theme is Ice Wars. The festival will also feature a parade and after party on Friday evening, live music, an Ice Wars themed Comicon on Saturday and Sunday with special guests, horse and carriage rides and much more. Admission and parking are free. For more information, visit www.theabingtons.org.

 

Torchlight Parade at Montage Mountain Resorts: Lackawanna County, PA – February 16, 2020

Join Montage Mountain for a whole afternoon of fun before the sun sets and the annual Torchlight parade made up of 100 skiers carrying illuminated torches begins down Main Line trail. The evening wraps up with an amazing pyro-musical firework display right outside the lodge! This event is free. For more information, visit www.montagemountainresorts.com.

 

PCB Mardi Gras and Music Festival: Panama City Beach, FL – February 21-22, 2020

The excitement of the authentic Mardi Gras celebration is combined with the spectacular views of Panama City Beach’s emerald green water and sugar white sand for the destination’s Mardi Gras and Music Festival. In conjunction with the Krewe of Domonique Youx’s great Mardi Gras at the Beach Parade, the annual festival takes place the weekend before Fat Tuesday and features entertainment for the entire family. For more information, visit www.visitpanamacitybeach.com.

 

Emerald Coast Cruizin’ Car Show: Panama City Beach, FL – March 4-7, 2020

The bi-annual car show at Aaron Bessant Park is perfect for families and features thousands of hot rods, muscle cars, trucks, customs and classic cars. Events include a swap meet, parade, cruiz-ins, block party, live music all weekend and more. For more information, visit www.visitpanamacitybeach.com.

 

St. Patrick’s Day Parade: New Haven, CT – March 15, 2020

The parade is a celebration that traces its roots back to the 19th century and is one of the longest running parades in the nation. It’s also the largest single-day spectator event in the entire state of Connecticut. This fun and family-friendly event is the perfect way to celebrate Irish roots and to see the wonderful city in high spirits. For more information visit www.stpatricksdayparade.org.