Valentine’s Day takes center stage in February, but it is hardly the only highlight. Here are our top picks for family fun in February:
Thank you to Dick’s House of Sport for presenting this month’s list of family friendly things to do in February. Check out Dick’s list of events here, including the Feb. 7 Charger Dance Class.
Restaurant Week, Feb. 1-3
There’s no time to waste: Feb. 3 is the final day of the Champaign County Area Restaurant Week. So don’t delay. Take advantage of some special menus at your favorite eateries.
Valentine’s Day-related events, Feb. 1-14
Take your pick: Need a crafty valentine for someone in your child’s life? There are options. Looking for a father-daughter dance? You have choices (but likely need to register). Check out our list of Valentine’s-related activities here.
Celebrate Black History Month, Feb. 1-29
Activities have already begun and will continue throughout February, and we have a list of where to learn, experience, enjoy and take part in a variety of events. (We’re partial to the Battle of the Books at Champaign Public Library on Feb. 24.)
IHSA State Wrestling Tournament, Feb. 15-17
The top high school wrestlers in the state converge on the State Farm Center for three days of action, and don’t underestimate the coolness factor of this event, if you’ve never been. Our tweens were highly engaged by the scene the first time they attended; with multiple matches going at once (as many as six), there’s always something to watch.
Urbana High School Theatre Presents: Careless People, A Great Gatsby, Feb. 15-18
Student tickets are $5 for the school’s highly theatrical memory play exploring F. Scott Fitzgerald’s The Great Gatsby through a new lens. Recommended for ages 13+.
The Great Backyard Bird Count, Feb. 16-19
Help the Urbana Park District figure out the birds that are in our area. You can be a citizen scientist from the comfort of your home. By counting birds you see from your windows or in your yard, you will help scientists collect important real-time information. Anyone can participate—count for as little or as long as you wish! Submit your observations online to gbbc.birdcount.org/ anytime from Feb. 18-21.
School’s Out: The Lincoln Legacy, Feb. 19
Looking for a fun and educational way to spend the day off from school for Presidents Day? Ages 5-11 (with an adult) can register to learn about Lincoln and have a hands-on artifact discovery at the Museum of the Grand Prairie. Registration is $5 per child and is limited. Register by Feb. 16.
Illini Women’s Basketball Senior Night, Feb. 19
The Illini have struggled this season to a surprising degree but this is a chance to “get right.” Indiana, one of thoe top teams in the Big Ten and the nation, visits State Farm Center for a 1 p.m. game. Send the Illini into the Big Ten Tournament with some momentum.
Christie Clinic Presents: Martens Center Family Day, Feb. 25
Join Christie Clinic and Chambanamoms at the Martens Center in Champaign from 3-4:30 p.m. for an afternoon of free family fun. During the event time only, get free admission to the interactive gaming area of the Martens Center to play active, indoor games with your family and friends. We will also have a special Leap Year craft for kids, plus purchase some food at Flour and Fire Wood-Fired Pizza truck to take home or enjoy outside.