Stay cozy and celebrate the month of love and history with our guide to Virginia in February 2026. From romantic wine trails and chocolate festivals to significant Black History Month events and winter festivals, here is how to make the most of February in the Commonwealth.
| Category | Highlight Event | Location |
| History | Washington’s Birthday Parade | Alexandria |
| Wine | Virginia Wine Expo | Richmond |
| Romance | LanternAsia | Norfolk |
| Food | Chocolate Lovers Festival | Fairfax |
Northern Virginia
George Washington Birthday Parade
- When: February 16, 2026 (1 PM – 3 PM)
- Where: Old Town Alexandria
- What: The nation’s largest parade celebrating our first president. Expect marching bands, historical re-enactors, and horse-drawn carriages through the cobblestone streets of his hometown.
- When: Early February (TBA)
- Where: City of Fairfax
- What: A dream for those with a sweet tooth. Featuring the “Taste of Chocolate,” a chocolate-themed art show, and the popular Kiwanis Pancake Breakfast.
Mount Vernon: George Washington’s 294th Birthday
- When: February 22, 2026
- Where: George Washington’s Mount Vernon
- What: Admission is free to the public on this day! Visit the mansion, watch wreath-laying ceremonies, and listen to a fife and drum corps performance.
Central Virginia (Richmond Area)
- When: Late February 2026
- Where: Main Street Station, Richmond
- What: A massive six-day event celebrating Virginia’s world-class wine, cider, and spirits. Enjoy the “Walk-Around Grand Tastings” in the stunning historic train station.
Black History Month at the Virginia Museum of History & Culture
- When: Throughout February 2026
- Where: Richmond
- What: Special exhibitions and lecture series highlighting the deep contributions of Black Virginians to the Commonwealth’s history.
- February 14: The Legwarmers (Ultimate 80s Tribute) – The perfect high-energy Valentine’s date night.
Coastal Virginia (Hampton Roads)
Coastal Virginia Magazine WineFest
- When: February 7–8, 2026
- Where: Virginia Beach Convention Center
- What: One of the most popular wine events in the region. Sample from dozens of Virginia wineries, shop artisan vendors, and enjoy a specialty beer garden.
Revolutionary Love: Valentine’s at Colonial Williamsburg
- When: February 14, 2026
- Where: Williamsburg
- What: Step back in time for candlelit dinners at historic taverns, carriage rides through the historic area, and romantic 18th-century “courting” tours.
Norfolk Botanical Garden: LanternAsia
- When: Evenings throughout February
- Where: Norfolk
- What: Massive, vibrant silk lanterns light up the gardens in a stunning display of art and nature. It’s one of the most romantic spots in the state during February.
Blue Ridge & Shenandoah Valley
Virginia Fly Fishing Festival (Winter Session)
- When: Early February (Check site for updates)
- Where: Waynesboro
- What: Special indoor classes and winter fly-fishing tours on the South River, perfect for those who want to refine their skills before spring.
Polar Plunge – Virginia Special Olympics
- When: February 21, 2026
- Where: Wintergreen Resort, Nellysford
- What: Brave the cold for a great cause! Participants take a “chilly” dip at the resort to raise funds for the Special Olympics.