Cool Things To Do in February in Atlanta
Last Updated February 12, 2026
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Love and history are in the air as we dive into February. Whether you’re looking for a date night or time out with the girls for Valentine’s Day or ways to honor Black Atlanta icons, Atlanta has it all.
Black History Month
February in Atlanta is full of fun events, live music and reverent observances honoring the city’s African-American community, including the people who ignited a nationwide movement.
Visit the National Center for Civil and Human Rights
The National Center for Civil and Human Rights, dives into the stories of those who fought for freedom and also the change makers of today. The “A Committed Life” exhibit is about Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s life and legacy, illustrating how his vision for justice continues to illuminate a path forward.
“Rolls Down Like Water” centers on the voice, struggles and triumphs of Black Americans who challenged Jim Crow segregation and demanded a more just nation.
Visitors can also experience a Freedom Rider’s journey, sit at a facsimile of a Greensboro lunch counter and witness the power of organized, nonviolent resistance in the American Civil Rights Movement exhibit.
Walk Down Sweet Auburn Avenue
Iconic locations along Auburn Avenue include the Auburn Avenue Research Library, APEX Museum, Atlanta Daily World, historic Ebenezer Baptist Church and the Municipal Market. Visit a stop on the U.S. Civil Rights Trail at the Madam CJ Walker Museum and WERD Studio. See our full itinerary to make a day of exploring Sweet Auburn Avenue.
Support Black-Owned Businesses
Establishing its reputation as a hub for Black-owned businesses, Atlanta has provided a home for Black entrepreneurs to thrive. Whether you’re a local looking to find more places to shop or a visitor looking to support a minority-owned business, you will find a wealth of Black-owned businesses that run from boutiques to spas, music stores, bookstores, galleries and so much more. See our full list.
HBCU Culture Battle of the Bands
Coinciding with Martin Luther King Jr. Day, this year’s Battle of the Bands will be a finale to close one chapter and ignite a new era. Four alumni HBCU marching bands, featuring the SWAC, MEAC, CIAA and SIAC conferences, will compete in an all-out showdown for ultimate bragging rights. The competition will go down on Feb. 21, 2026, with a top secret venue yet to be disclosed.
Valentine’s Day
Feel the love this Valentine’s Day. Here’s our list of recommendations for date ideas, gift options and themed pop-up bars.
Need Date Ideas?
Here are some out-of-the-box ways to spoil the one you love.
Take a Ride in a Helicopter
Who’s going to top this? Take it to the skies with a Prestige Helicopter tour. The jaw-dropping views are something you won’t want to miss during this one-of-a-kind experience. Tours go through Buckhead, Downtown, Stone Mountain and more.
See a Movie at the Drive-In
This old-school date is still a classic. Visit Starlight Drive-In on Memorial Drive, snuggle under a blanket and watch a movie.
See a Comedy Show
Enjoy some laughs at comedy venues including Dad’s Garage, Don’t Tell Comedy, Laughing Skull Lounge and more.
For the Perfect Gift
Lucy’s Market
Known for going all out for all the holidays, Lucy’s Market has gift options for anyone in your life. Find gourmet treats, fresh flowers and curated gift baskets. You can go for a ready-made basket or create your own, filled with local wines, specialty cheeses and handmade chocolates.
Perrine’s Wine Shop
It’s hard to go wrong with a nice bottle of wine. Perrine’s makes it easy with a variety of wines, and the staff is helpful in helping you pick out exactly what you’re looking for. For an experiential gift, consider booking a wine tasting experience for a double date or a Galentine’s get-together.
Flowers are Always a Nice Touch
When in doubt, the plethora of flower shops around Atlanta make it easy to grab a beautiful bouquet. Candler Park Flower Mart, JJ’s Flower Shop, The Flower Shop Atlanta, Peachtree Flowers are just a few spots with plenty of flower options. But, of course, don’t wait until the last minute.
Here are some more ideas to help you find the sweetest gift for Valentine’s Day.
Grab a Valentine’s Day-Themed Cocktail
The Blind Pig is transformed into The Blind Cupid around Valentine’s Day, AltaToro opens up Cupid’s Cove, and Lingering Shade Social Club offers cute drinks fit for the girls. See what more spots around town are serving up this February.
February Fun
Atlanta Jewish Film Festival
The 26th anniversary of the Atlanta Jewish Film Festival will encompass the magic of the festival through the years. Expect 64 unforgettable films. There will be Field Trip screenings for local schools, Young Professionals Night, plus Opening and Closing Night celebrations. The festival runs from Feb. 18, 2026 through March 15, 2026.
Lunar New Year at Stone Mountain Park
Stone Mountain Park is hosting its fourth annual Lunar New Year Festival. The event, which pays tribute to traditions of Korean, Chinese, Vietnamese and other countries that follow the Lunar calendar, will have food trucks with cultural food options, Club K-Pop with music and a live DJ, and the opportunity to learn calligraphy and yo-yo making. Also on tap is the iconic drone and light show featuring color-changing drones creating aerial formations synced to music, along with the light show projecting images on the mountain along with immersive lights, lasers and special effects, followed by a fireworks finale. Lunar New Year at Stone Mountain Park will be on Saturdays and Sundays from Feb. 14, 2026, through March 1, 2026, from 4-9 p.m.
Unbound Narratives: Embodied Languages
The Unbound Narratives: Embodied Language exhibit at Atlanta Contemporary invites attendees to consider how stories shape our sense of self and our connection to others. See works of art from artists like Bethany Collins, February James, a’driane nieves, and Gabi Madrid. The installation will feature paintings, sculptures, films expanding beyond the page to explore how words, memories and histories take physical form. The exhibit runs from Feb. 1 through May 17.
The Mirrored Pool
A new show is coming to The Center for Puppetry Arts. The Mirrored Pool is an immersive performance inviting audiences to reflect on humanity’s place in the cosmos, blending Eighth Blackbird’s music with the storytelling of puppets. The story was inspired by astronomer Carl Sagan and the Voyager spacecraft carrying the Golden Record, now traveling more than 15.7 billion miles from Earth. Shows are happening Feb. 13-22, 2026.
Alvin Ailey
The Alvin Ailey American Dance Theatre is coming to Atlanta showcasing extraordinary dancers featuring new works and cherished audience favorites. Mark your calendars for Feb. 11-15, 2026, with shows at the Fox Theatre. AILEY has been around since 1958, sharing the African American cultural experience through performances, training, classes and community programs.
Serial Killer: The Original Exhibition at Pullman Yards
This immersive experience takes you inside the dark psychology of real-life serial killers. There are more than 2,100 authentic artifacts, including Jeffrey Dahmer’s glasses, Robert Berdella’s saw and original materials linked to John Wayne Gacy. The exhibit also honors the names and lives of the victims. The exhibit will be at Pullman Yards starting Feb. 7.
Atlanta Publix Marathon
This marks the 20th year of the Atlanta Publix Marathon. Runners participating in the half and full marathon will pass by some of the city’s most historical landmarks and scenic areas. The 5k is taking place Saturday, Feb. 28 starting at 7:45 a.m. The half and full marathon is happening Sunday, March 1 starting at 7:15 a.m.
The Pro Cheer League Presented by Varsity Spirit
Atlanta Air is the newest professional sports team in the city. The Pro Cheer League is in its inaugural season and you can support the team at their first-ever match on Friday, Feb. 13 from 8-10 p.m. at Georgia World Congress Center. Each match features four quarters of action with skill battles in tumbling, stunts and basket tosses.
38th Annual Oysterfest
Seafood lovers, clear your schedule because the Steamhouse Lounge is hosting Oysterfest Feb. 21 and 22. The 38th annual event will have buckets of fresh roasted oysters, chargrilled oysters layered with garlic and parmesan, Lowcountry shrimp boil, oyster po’boys and lobster bisque. Enjoy live music both days featuring performances from Francisco Vidal, Family Truckster, Hallpass and more. Oysterfest is from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 21 and 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Sunday, Feb. 22. The event entrance is located at Peachtree St. and 12th St., two blocks from Steamhouse Lounge.
Hot Chocolate Run
This race makes your motivation to run easy because chocolate is served at the finish line. The Hot Chocolate Run is happening Feb. 1, 2026, with 5K and 15K race options. Runners will pass by Atlanta landmarks like Centennial Olympic Park, Georgia Aquarium, Atlanta City Hall and more.
For more things to do in Atlanta, keep an eye on our calendar of events.
A Chicago transplant, Taylor loves exploring what makes Atlanta the place to be. Name a popular festival, food hall or brewery to check out and she will be there.
Originally Published December 18, 2025
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