In February, the winter blues (not to mention the winter uglies) are at their peak. At this point in the season, a day spent indoors with your pajamas on while ignoring your texts feels pretty enticing — but come on, where’s the fun in that! Despite the weather, plenty is going on this month to fill out your social calendar and pump a little excitement back into your life. If you need ideas, Bustle’s “Your Month IRL” calendar, our monthly list of in-person events, has got you covered.
From the Olympics to the Super Bowl, there’s plenty of motivation to catch a game at your local sports bar (even if you’re mostly there for the beer and popcorn). And if you’re missing your hibernating besties, you can lure them out of the house with a Galentine’s Day celebration, or an invitation to watch the sexiest movie of the year. Plus, there are so many fun local events going on this month, from Heated Rivalry nights to an art show battle you won’t want to miss. You don’t have to be outside to be outside.
— Megan LaCreta, Editorial Associate
Some dates and details to keep in mind, regardless of which city you call home.
The wait is over. The Milano Cortina Winter Olympics kick off with the Opening Ceremonies on Feb. 6. Whether you’re a figure skating aficionado or a snowboarding superfan, tune in on NBC or Peacock to cheer on Team USA, as they battle to take home the gold.
Start heating the buffalo chicken dip. On Feb. 8, the New England Patriots face off against the Seattle Seahawks in Super Bowl LX. Even if you’re not a sports fan, stick around for Bad Bunny’s halftime show, the commercials, or the nachos.
No Valentine? No problem. Jacob Elordi in Wuthering Heights will suffice. The highly-anticipated romantic drama hits theaters on Feb. 13. Grab your tickets, and brace yourself for what Margot Robbie herself claims is an “unhinged” viewing experience.
What’s Galentine’s Day? In the immortal words of Leslie Knope, “it’s only the best day of the year.” Pregame Valentine’s Day by celebrating your best gal pals and the platonic loves of your life (of all genders). Rosé not required, but encouraged.
In desperate need of a respite from the winter gloom? Time to book a last-minute trip to New Orleans, Louisiana, and party the night away at Mardi Gras. While the biggest celebration falls on Feb. 17, the festivities begin early, so whenever you head down, you’re sure to catch a couple of beads. Check out the city’s ultimate Mardi Gras guide to plan your trip.
Sorry to report, but Mercury retrograde is back. The planetary shift occurs on Feb. 26 and will last until late March. According to Bustle’s resident astrology expert Nina Kahn, this retrograde is set to impact your love life, and could even bring some old flames back into the picture. Now might be a particularly prudent time to weed through your IG following, block some contacts, or send that risky text yourself. Get it, girl.
The fifth annual Lunar New Year Night Market is coming to Hangar 30 at Magnuson Park on Saturday, Feb. 7. The 21+ event will kick off the Year of the Horse with live entertainment, booths showcasing local artisans and makers, and delicious food and drink.
— Stephanie Topacio Long, Copy Editor & Contributing Editor
If you don’t feel like sitting through the big game for Bad Bunny’s performance, hit up Candlelight Concert’s Tribute to the artist on Feb. 8 at Manhattan’s Sony Hall. This month’s New York lineup also includes renditions of music by Adele, Coldplay, ABBA, and Taylor Swift.
— Alexis Morillo, Lifestyle & Wellness Editor
From Feb. 11 - 15, Magie Wine Bar in Miami’s Little River neighborhood invites you to the cottage — cottage, in this case, meaning Heated Rivalry watch parties serving up free ginger ale and $10 tuna melts (IYKYK). Visit Magie’s Instagram for episodes and times.
— Grace Wehniainen, Staff Writer
Come to SPIN Philadelphia on Feb. 27 to watch a live painting competition. Artists will battle it out by creating works of art on the spot in only 20 minutes, and you get to choose who moves on to the next round. Get tickets to Art Battle here.
— Carolyn Steber, Staff Writer
Have an event for our monthly roundup? Send it to bustlecalendar@bustle.com.
