February in California feels like a quiet shift toward spring. The days get a little longer, almond blossoms start popping up across the state, and winter crowds thin out just enough to make travel feel easier. It is also a great month for festivals, food events, and unique seasonal experiences you only see this time of year.
1. Black History Month Events Across California
February is Black History Month, and cities across California host exhibits, talks, and cultural events. In Los Angeles, museums and festivals spotlight African American history. In San Francisco, the African American Freedom Trail highlights landmarks, museums. You can also support Black-owned businesses, not just this month but year long. Add these to your calendar:
- Los Angeles Black History Month Festival
- Check out California African American Museum
- Check out Museum of the African Diaspora
2. Lunar New Year Celebrations
Lunar New Year festivities begin mid February and continue well into March. Expect flower markets, parades, live performances, and special menus across California. Cultural districts, theme parks, and community spaces all host celebrations, making this one of the most colorful times to visit. Add these to your calendar:
- USVA Tet Festival
- Flower Market Fair
- Alaska Airlines Chinese New Year Festival & Parade
- Check out events at SeaWorld San Diego
- Check out events at Disneyland Resort
3. Yosemite Firefall
For about 2 weeks in February, the setting sun reflects off Horsetail Fall and creates the illusion of glowing fire cascading down El Capitan. This natural phenomenon draws crowds every year, so planning ahead and arriving early is important.
4. Seafood and Sips in Mendocino
Winter is peak crab season along the Mendocino Coast. This multi day event includes crab cook offs, cioppino dinners, and sparkling wine pairings with oysters. It is cozy, scenic, and perfect for a winter coastal getaway.
5. Romantic Sparkling Lunch at Chandon in Napa
February is ideal for romantic wine experiences. Chandon offers a special sparkling wine lunch where each course is paired with a different bubbly, all enjoyed with views of the winery gardens.
6. Super Bowl Week in the San Francisco Bay Area
Even if you are not attending the game, Super Bowl Week brings fan zones, interactive exhibits, and free events across San Francisco and the South Bay. Expect live entertainment, player appearances, and photo opportunities throughout the week.
7. Almond Blossom Drives in Central California
Starting in February, almond orchards bloom across the Central Valley. Scenic drives near Modesto, Fresno County, and Yolo County take you past rows of pink and white blossoms. Some areas also offer audio tours, train rides, and weekend events.
8. Cloverdale Citrus Fair
This nostalgic fair in Sonoma County celebrates the region’s citrus history with classic rides, citrus themed food, juicing contests, and community events. It is small town fun with a seasonal twist.
9. Lodi Wine and Chocolate Weekend
February and wine and chocolate pairings go hand in hand. This annual Lodi event features winery tours, tastings paired with sweets, and a winemaker’s toast that makes it perfect for Valentine’s weekend plans.
10. International White Wine Festival in Anderson Valley
This Mendocino County festival highlights crisp white wines such as Riesling, Pinot Gris, and Gewürztraminer. The weekend includes a large tasting event followed by winery open houses the next day.
11. SF Beer Week
If you love beer, you’ll love SF Beer Week where you’ll find events across San Francisco and the Bay Area throughout late February. Activities include brewery releases, trivia nights, food pairings, and large tasting events that bring together breweries from around the region.
12. Clam Chowder Cook Off in Santa Cruz
Held at the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, this long running competition lets you sample chowder from both amateur and professional chefs. Admission to the boardwalk is free, and tasting tickets include a vote for the people’s choice winner.
13. Capay Valley Almond Parade and Festival
This almond themed festival in Yolo County dates back more than a century. Visitors can enjoy a local parade, almond inspired treats, and views of blooming orchards throughout the valley.
14. Sonoma County Restaurant Week
Late February is a great time to explore Sonoma County’s food scene. Restaurants across the region offer special menus and deals that make it easy to try new spots without overspending.
15. St. Helena Mustard Celebration
Mustard flowers blanket Napa Valley vineyards in late winter. This small celebration in St. Helena includes mustard inspired art, photography, and seasonal treats that make for a lovely wine country stop.
16. Santa Barbara International Film Festival
This popular festival draws film fans and industry names to the Central Coast. With hundreds of screenings and special events, it is a great excuse for a beachside getaway with a bit of Hollywood energy.
17. AT and T Pebble Beach Pro-Am
Watch top golfers and celebrities play on some of the most scenic courses in California. Even if you are not a golf fan, the coastal views make this event worth experiencing.
18. Palm Springs Modernism Week
Palm Springs celebrates its midcentury architecture with home tours, exhibits, talks, and cocktail parties. February is one of the busiest and most fun times to visit the desert.
19. San Diego Museum Month
Throughout February, museum passes offer half off admission at dozens of museums across San Diego County. It is one of the best winter travel deals in California for culture lovers.
20. Riverside County Fair and National Date Festival
This Coachella Valley fair celebrates the local date harvest with concerts, carnival rides, competitions, and date inspired food. It is lively, quirky, and great for all ages.
