The world is buzzing with excitement and color in February. From dazzling carnivals to cultural celebrations, there’s something for everyone this month. Let’s take a whirlwind tour of what’s happening around the globe and right here in the US.
Carnival Fever
If you’re in the mood for some serious partying, February is your month. Europe is lighting up with vibrant carnivals:
- In Spain, the Santa Cruz de Tenerife Carnival (Jan 31 – Mar 9) is giving Rio a run for its money with its spectacular costumes and high-energy performances.
- Italy’s not far behind with the Viareggio Carnival (Feb 8 – Mar 4), known for its satirical floats and fireworks.
- The French Riviera joins the fun with Nice Carnival (Feb 15 – Mar 2), featuring flower parades and light shows.
- And of course, there’s the iconic Venice Carnival (Feb 22 – Mar 4), where elaborate masks turn the city into a living work of art.
But Europe doesn’t have all the fun. Brazil’s world-famous Rio Carnival kicks off on February 28, promising a week of samba, glitter, and non-stop celebration.
Cultural Celebrations
February isn’t just about parties. It’s also a month rich in cultural significance:
- Black History Month is observed across the US, offering opportunities to learn and reflect.
- The Lunar New Year ushers in the Year of the Snake, with spectacular parades in San Francisco (Feb 15) and New York City (Feb 25).
- In Laos, Buddhists celebrate Magha Puja on February 12, commemorating Buddha’s first sermon.
For Adventure Seekers
If you’re looking to shake off the winter blues with some adventure:
- Bolivia’s Lake Titicaca offers a unique experience with its high-altitude beauty and ancient ruins.
- The Garden Route in South Africa is perfect for a road trip, with its diverse landscapes and wildlife.
- For winter sports enthusiasts, Interlaken, Switzerland is a snowy paradise.
Closer to Home
In the US, we’ve got our own brand of February fun:
- New Orleans’ Mardi Gras (Mar 4) is the ultimate pre-Lenten bash, with parades, music, and plenty of king cake.
- For a more laid-back vibe, check out the “A Taste of the Hills” festival in Adelaide Hills (Feb 14-15), celebrating local food and wine.
- Animal lovers can meet the new pandas, Bao Li and Qing Bao, at the Smithsonian’s National Zoo in Washington, D.C.
Embracing New Trends
As we celebrate, we’re also seeing shifts in how we approach life:
- There’s a growing focus on holistic wellness, balancing physical and mental health.
- Sustainable and intentional purchasing is becoming more important, especially in fashion and home goods.
- Even our approach to beauty is changing, with some embracing a more natural look and questioning the need for cosmetic procedures.
Whether you’re looking to party, explore, learn, or just try something new, February 2025 has something for everyone. So grab your calendar and start planning – adventure awaits!