Looking for exciting family activities this weekend? From coast to coast, the United States offers a plethora of events perfect for all ages. Here are the top 15 family-friendly events happening across the country:
1️⃣ Mardi Gras! Galveston – Galveston, Texas
Experience the vibrant festivities of Mardi Gras in Galveston, Texas. Celebrating its 114th year, Mardi Gras! Galveston offers lively parades, live music, and the traditional bead tossing that delights attendees of all ages. The event kicks off this weekend, promising a memorable experience for the whole family.
Event Highlights:
- Parades: Colorful floats and marching bands.
- Live Music: Performances by local and national artists.
- Family Zones: Designated areas with kid-friendly activities.
Dates: February 21–24, 2025
Location: Galveston, TX
2️⃣ Cirque Italia’s Aquatic Spectacular – Midland, Texas
Step into a mesmerizing world of water, acrobatics, and awe-inspiring performances with Cirque Italia’s Aquatic Spectacular. This European-style circus features a unique water stage, creating a captivating experience for audiences. From high-energy trapeze acts to daring BMX stunts, there’s something to enchant every family member.
Event Highlights:
- Water Stage: A dynamic centerpiece with fountains and jets.
- Diverse Acts: Including aerialists, contortionists, and jugglers.
- Family-Friendly Environment: Designed to entertain all ages.
Dates: February 21–24, 2025
Location: Midland Park Mall, Midland, TX
3️⃣ Newport Winter Festival – Newport, Rhode Island
Embrace the charm of winter at the 37th Annual Newport Winter Festival. Known as New England’s largest winter extravaganza, the festival offers over 150 events, ensuring a delightful experience for every family member. From live music to culinary contests, it’s a celebration of the season you won’t want to miss.
Event Highlights:
- Chili Cook-Off: Taste and vote for your favorite recipes.
- Ice Carving Demonstrations: Watch artists transform ice into masterpieces.
- Children’s Fair: Games, crafts, and entertainment tailored for kids.
Dates: February 14–23, 2025
Location: Newport, RI
4️⃣ Orange Beach Seafood Festival & Car Show – Orange Beach, Alabama
Indulge in delicious seafood and admire classic cars at the 33rd Annual Orange Beach Seafood Festival & Car Show. This family-friendly event is the primary fundraiser for the Makos Academics Arts & Athletics Club, supporting local schools. With a variety of vendors, live music, and activities for kids, it’s a perfect weekend outing.
Event Highlights:
- Seafood Vendors: Offering a wide range of Gulf Coast delicacies.
- Car Show: Featuring classic and vintage automobiles.
- Kids’ Zone: Inflatables, face painting, and more.
Date: February 22, 2025
Location: The Wharf, Orange Beach, AL
5️⃣ Fur Rendezvous Festival – Anchorage, Alaska
Celebrate the rich history and unique culture of Anchorage at the Fur Rendezvous Festival, affectionately known as “Fur Rondy.” Recognized as one of the top winter festivals globally, Fur Rondy offers a blend of traditional events and contemporary activities, ensuring fun for the entire family.
Event Highlights:
- World Championship Sled Dog Races: Witness the excitement of competitive mushing.
- Running of the Reindeer: A playful dash through downtown with reindeer.
- Snow Sculpting Competitions: Marvel at intricate designs crafted from snow.
Dates: February 21 – March 2, 2025
Location: Anchorage, AK
6️⃣ Noise Pop Festival – San Francisco, California
Dive into San Francisco’s vibrant music and arts scene at the 32nd annual Noise Pop Festival. Running from February 20 through March 2, 2025, this festival showcases over 160 bands and 80 events across 25 venues. Families can enjoy a diverse lineup of musical performances, art exhibitions, and film screenings, making it a cultural feast for all ages.
Event Highlights:
- Live Music: Performances by artists like St. Vincent, Benjamin Gibbard, and Fantastic Negrito.
- Art Shows: Exhibitions featuring local and international artists.
- Film Screenings: Independent films and documentaries.
Dates: February 20 – March 2, 2025
Location: Various venues across San Francisco, CA
7️⃣ Insect Fear Film Festival – Urbana, Illinois
For a unique blend of education and entertainment, attend the Insect Fear Film Festival at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. This annual event, organized by the Entomology Graduate Students Association, aims to dispel fears about insects through film screenings, interactive exhibits, and live insect displays. It’s an educational experience that promises to fascinate both kids and adults.
Event Highlights:
- Film Screenings: Movies featuring insects as central characters.
- Live Exhibits: Opportunities to observe and learn about various insect species.
- Educational Talks: Discussions led by entomologists and researchers.
Date: February 22, 2025
Location: Foellinger Auditorium, Urbana, IL
8️⃣ Vasaloppet USA – Mora, Minnesota
Embrace the winter season at Vasaloppet USA, a premier cross-country skiing event inspired by Sweden’s Vasaloppet. Held annually in Mora, Minnesota, this event offers races for various skill levels, making it perfect for families who enjoy outdoor activities. Beyond the races, the festival atmosphere includes food vendors, live music, and cultural exhibits celebrating Scandinavian heritage.
Event Highlights:
- Ski Races: Multiple distances suitable for all ages and abilities.
- Cultural Exhibits: Showcasing Scandinavian traditions and crafts.
- Live Entertainment: Music performances and family-friendly activities.
Dates: February 22–23, 2025
Location: Mora, MN
9️⃣ Setsucon – Altoona, Pennsylvania
Celebrate Japanese culture and pop media at Setsucon, an annual anime convention organized by the Penn State Anime Organization. Held at the Blair County Convention Center, the event features a variety of activities including cosplay contests, panel discussions, and workshops. It’s an engaging experience for families interested in anime, manga, and Japanese traditions.
Event Highlights:
- Cosplay Contests: Showcase your costumes and appreciate others’.
- Workshops: Learn about various aspects of Japanese culture and media.
- Artist Alley: Discover and purchase artwork from talented creators.
Dates: February 22–23, 2025
Location: Blair County Convention Center, Altoona, PA
🔟 Insect Fear Film Festival – Urbana, Illinois
For a unique blend of education and entertainment, attend the Insect Fear Film Festival at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. This annual event, organized by the Entomology Graduate Students Association, aims to dispel fears about insects through film screenings, interactive exhibits, and live insect displays. It’s an educational experience that promises to fascinate both kids and adults.
Event Highlights:
- Film Screenings: Movies featuring insects as central characters.
- Live Exhibits: Opportunities to observe and learn about various insect species.
- Educational Talks: Discussions led by entomologists and researchers.
Date: February 22, 2025
Location: Foellinger Auditorium, Urbana, IL
These events offer a diverse range of activities to create lasting memories with your family this weekend. Whether you’re in the mood for cultural festivals, educational experiences, or outdoor adventures, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
1️⃣1️⃣ Noise Pop Festival – San Francisco, California
Dive into San Francisco’s vibrant music and arts scene at the 32nd annual Noise Pop Festival. Running from February 20 through March 2, 2025, this festival showcases over 160 bands and 80 events across 25 venues. Families can enjoy a diverse lineup of musical performances, art exhibitions, and film screenings, making it a cultural feast for all ages.
Event Highlights:
- Live Music: Performances by artists like St. Vincent, Benjamin Gibbard, and Fantastic Negrito.
- Art Shows: Exhibitions featuring local and international artists.
- Film Screenings: Independent films and documentaries.
Dates: February 20 – March 2, 2025
Location: Various venues across San Francisco, CA
1️⃣2️⃣ Monster Jam – Minneapolis, Minnesota
Experience the thrill of Monster Jam at U.S. Bank Stadium in Minneapolis. This family-friendly event features massive trucks performing jaw-dropping stunts, races, and freestyle competitions. The Pit Party allows families to get up close with the trucks and meet the drivers, offering a memorable experience for all ages.
Event Highlights:
- Pit Party: Meet the drivers and see the trucks up close.
- Racing and Freestyle Competitions: Watch as drivers showcase their skills in high-energy events.
Dates: February 22–23, 2025
Location: U.S. Bank Stadium, Minneapolis, MN
1️⃣3️⃣ George Washington’s Birthday Celebration – Mount Vernon, Virginia
Celebrate George Washington’s 293rd birthday at his historic estate in Mount Vernon. The event includes special activities such as meeting historical characters, witnessing a presidential tribute at Washington’s tomb, and enjoying birthday cake with “General Washington.” Educational and entertaining, this event offers a glimpse into colonial life.
Event Highlights:
- Historical Reenactments: Interact with figures from Washington’s time.
- Presidential Tribute: Ceremony at Washington’s tomb.
- Birthday Cake: Celebrate with cake and festivities.
Date: February 22, 2025
Location: Mount Vernon, VA
1️⃣4️⃣ Family Nights at the University of Minnesota – Minneapolis, Minnesota
Join the University of Minnesota for Family Nights, a weekend full of Gopher spirit and activities. Families can attend various sporting events with discounted tickets, including women’s hockey and men’s basketball games. It’s an excellent opportunity to experience collegiate sports excitement together.
Event Highlights:
- Women’s Hockey vs. Duluth: Cheer on the Gophers at Ridder Arena.
- Men’s Basketball vs. Ohio State: Experience the action at Williams Arena.
Dates: February 21–23, 2025
Location: University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN
1️⃣5️⃣ Root for Conroe Arbor Day – Conroe, Texas
Celebrate Arbor Day in historic downtown Conroe with the “Root for Conroe” event. From 8:00 am to noon on February 22, 2025, Founder’s Park will host tree giveaways and gardening advice sessions. Later, enjoy the Conroe Go Texan Parade at 1:00 pm, followed by a free talk on African fashion at the Heritage Museum of Montgomery County. The evening concludes with “Conroe Conjuring,” a family-friendly magic show at the Owen Theatre.
Event Highlights:
- Tree Giveaways: Free saplings and gardening tips.
- Go Texan Parade: A lively procession celebrating local culture.
- African Fashion Talk: Educational session on traditional attire.
- Magic Show: “Conroe Conjuring” performance for all ages.
Date: February 22, 2025
Location: Downtown Conroe, TX
