Things to Do in February in Charlottesville & Albemarle County
February in the Charlottesville area is like a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. As the chilly winter air begins to mellow, the local scene comes alive with a cozy blend of history, culture, and adventure! Whether you're a foodie eager to savor the local flavors, a history buff ready to dive into the past, or simply looking for a romantic getaway, Charlottesville has something for you.
Take a look at our top picks this month and be sure to check our events page to stay up to date on all the latest happenings!
1. Celebrate Black History Month
Charlottesville and Albemarle County are home to a Black community with a rich culture and history. Celebrate Black History this month by supporting black-owned businesses, taking an educational tour, visiting historic Black spaces, or attending an event. Visit this page to learn more about exploring the area's Black history, including guided and self-guided tours that are available year-round.
Whether you're celebrating self-love, gal friends, or a special someone, Charlottesville and Albemarle County have tons of events and activities to help you experience a little romance this month.
If you're more of a foodie, these Romantic Restaurants should do the trick -- some even have special Valentine's menus! We recommend making a reservation before it's too late...
Explore different exhibitions at one of the many galleries and museums in Charlottesville and Albemarle County.
Kluge Ruhe Aboriginal Art Museum
ABOUTWe are the only museum dedicated to Indigenous Australian art in the USA. Our space is small but the experience is profound! Expand your world and make fascinating and surprising connections with: our world-class collection of more than 3000 artworks…
The Fralin Museum of Art exhibits art from around the world dating from ancient times to the present day. In addition to its permanent collection, the Museum presents an ongoing schedule of changing exhibitions, accompanied by related programs and publications…
The original Grounds of the University, including the Rotunda and the Lawn, were designed by Jefferson to be what he called an "Academical Village." The Academical Village includes a rectangular, terraced green space known as the Lawn; two parallel rows…
Second Street Gallery, central Virginia's first artist run alternative art space, is one of the longest surviving nonprofit organizations in the country focused solely on the art and ideas of our time. Since its founding in 1973, SSG has served…
Les Yeux du Monde (The Eyes of the World) is a contemporary art gallery located in Charlottesville, Virginia. The gallery rotates exhibitions by regional, national and international contemporary artists and modern masters. Committed to education, and sharing the joys of…
Live Arts Theater’s 2024/25 VOYAGES Season continues with MARYS SEACOLE, Jackie Sibblies Drury’s time-travelling chronicle, based on the real-life Mary Seacole, 19th century Jamaican nurse, adventurer and entrepreneur. MARYS SEACOLE is the tale of an extraordinary woman, chronicling the strength and empathy of women through the centuries paid to care.
MARYS SEACOLE is presented by Bernie Murphy & Patricia Simpson and sponsored by the City of Charlottesville Office of Social Equity. Show times and tickets can be found on the Live Arts website!
MARYS SEACOLE
Based on the real-life Mary Seacole, 19th century Jamaican nurse, adventurer and entrepreneur, Jackie Sibblies Drury's play MARYS SEACOLE sets sail on a kaleidoscopic voyage across oceans, time-shifting through the centuries. MARYS SEACOLE By Jackie Sibblies Drury On Stage: February…
The Great Backyard Bird Count takes place each February and is a great reason to spend some time in nature during the winter season. This February 14th-17th, discover which bird species abound in Charlottesville and Albemarle County at some of our favorite hiking and bird watching spots. We recommend attending the First Saturday Bird Walk at Ivy Creek Natural Area (Feb. 1st) if you can -- this is a free event led by Piedmont Virginia Bird Club. Binoculars are available to borrow, and birders of all levels are welcome!
If the temperatures still feel a bit too chilly for exploring the outdoors, take advantage of these indoor activities that can be enjoyed by the whole family!
Get active! Spend the day at Rocky Top Climbing Gym where everyone can try their hand(s) at bouldering.
Get creative! Visit Scrappy Elephant, a reuse center located minutes from the Downtown Mall that is filled with materials to inspire creative freedom and fun! They have a number of workshops throughout the month for different ages -- check the full schedule here. You can also head out to Rose’s Inspiration Station in Crozet, a kids' craft studio stocked with supplies that encourages self-directed creativity!
Get inventive! Visit Unlocked History Escape Rooms and enter a world of hidden clues, mind-bending puzzles, and clandestine passageways. All ages are welcome and children aged 6 and under are free with a paid general admission.
6. Visit the Riversong Saunas
Did you know Charlottesville has its very own authentic, wood-fired saunas? The Rivanna River Company’s Riversong Saunas sit right next to the river (easy cold-plunge access) and provide visitors with an invigorating, unforgettable experience. Private reservations can be made Thursday – Sunday, with community sessions also available for those who wish to connect with others!
7. Go See a Tribute Band at Pro Re Nata
Pro Re Nata, a craft brewery located just outside the city in Crozet, has an awesome selection of tribute bands scheduled for the month! Don't miss out on:
If you're looking to plan ahead for March, Pro Re Nata will be hosting tribute bands throughout the month for these legendary bands: AC/DC, Guns N'Roses, Rolling Stones, and Doobie Brothers. Visit their website for a full list of events, hours, and more details!
Book Your Stay
Whether you’re looking for a cozy, romantic B&B, a trendy boutique accommodation, or a hotel with an indoor pool for the kids, explore your perfect stay in Charlottesville and Albemarle County this month.
Keep in mind that February boasts some of the most affordable room rates of the entire year – so book your stay today!
Places to Stay
Charlottesville and Albemarle County offer visitors a wide variety of places to stay, including resorts, hotels, inns, bed and breakfasts, cabins, and vacation rentals.