There are plenty of things to do in NYC in February that are worthy of a slot on your bucket list: from dining experiences to new performances, Valentine’s Day activities and Lunar New Year celebrations, our guide has a little bit of everything.
See what’s taking place and mark your calendars accordingly!
1. Take advantage of NYC Winter Outing’s discounts
While February seems like a good time to hole up in our tiny apartments, NYC’s Winter Outing will make you say, “To Hell with the Polar Vortex.” With 2-for-1 Broadway tickets and museum tickets, as well as discounts to your favorite restaurants, there’s no better time to indulge in NYC culture. Have a look at each part of the promotion and book your outing now! The fun runs from January 21st to February 9th:
2. Celebrate Lunar New Year
The Year of the Snake is upon us, and NYC is celebrating accordingly with the annual Lunar New Year parade in Chinatown, traditional lion dance performances, delicious bites, and so much more. The snake symbolizes wisdom, rebirth, and transformation — a perfect mentality for the year ahead.
3. Attend a Candlelight Concert
With over three million attendees worldwide and performances in 100+ countries, Candlelight Concerts make for an unforgettable evening. The shows take place in historic locations across NYC and focus on music from your favorite artists — from Hans Zimmer to Mozart, the Bridgerton score to Coldplay — all while the room is set aglow by thousands of (electronic) candles.
4. Celebrate Black History Month
From performances and exhibits to art shows and festivals, Black History Month is a festive occasion that honors the Black community in NYC, and beyond. Celebrate the achievements of African Americans and learn how you can make a difference in promoting equality in today’s society.
5. Let Lektrik wow you
Visitors perusing the grounds of the Queens Botanical Garden are in for a dazzling treat thanks to Lektrik, a gorgeous festival of lights. In this debut show, over one million LED lights bring the space to life with colorful and vibrant displays such as florals, animals, and more.
6. Try Squid Games IRL
Don’t worry: Squid Game: The Experience is all of the fun and none of the consequences! (Thank gosh for that, right?) Step into the world of the Netflix sensation with games like red light green light, the glass bridge, and other popular challenges from the series. When all is said and done, wrap up your gaming experience with snacks from H-Mart and something more sizeable at the Korean-inspired night market
7. Host SNL…sort of
In honor of the milestone 50th anniversary of NYC’s beloved Saturday Night Live, 30 Rock is hosting a four-day immersive experience that puts you in the spotlight in a Studio 8H experience. The fun ends on February 2nd, so you’ll have to hurry. Reservations are on a first-come, first-serve basis.
8. Enjoy Movie & Art Nights at the Banksy Museum!
Throughout the month of February there are many events happening at the Banksy Museum located 277 Canal St. Every Monday evening is movie night at the space! Take in all of the art and enjoy a film screening where the theme is all things Banksy! Go here to see a full list and to book your tickets.
9. Try the best new restaurant in the U.S.
Are you really surprised to learn that the best new restaurant in the country is stationed in NYC? We weren’t either. Now that the secret’s out, book a reservation for dinner at Astoria’s Tootle & French, where you can indulge in coq au vin wings, steak frites, and Squid Ink Pasta, to name a few menu favorites.
10. Enjoy Valentine’s Day events
Love is in the air. You’ll go googley-eyed for NYC’s best Valentine’s Day events, including fun dinners, art installations, and intimate performances. What are you booking this romantic season?
11. See a massive Valentine’s installation made of oyster reef cages
A massive 3D heart from Pernilla Ohrstedt Studio will dazzle those who pass by Duffy Square beginning February 4th. Crafted from metal oyster reef cages, “Love Ever After” will change shape and color depending on the viewer’s perspective. Once the installation wraps up, the cages will be used in NY waters for oyster restoration efforts.
12. Allow yourself to be “Love Struck”
AirOtic Soirée is making its way back to NYC with Love Struck, a see-it-to-believe-it Valentine’s-themed circus and cabaret dinner show that’s equal parts sexy and stunning.
13. Dine at the city’s most romantic restaurants
Book a table at one of the most romantic restaurants in NYC where the scenery is as stunning as the menu is delectable. These spots are perfect for your Valentine’s Day outing.
14. Name a roach after your love bug…or your ex
Every year, the Bronx Zoo allows scorned lovers to name their horrific ex after none other than a Madagascar Hissing Cockroach. Romantic, right? Stay tuned for 2025 details and get ready to unleash the resentment with help from these creepy crawlers.
15. Name a rat after your ex
If the roach isn’t your rodent of choice, you’re in luck: there are plenty of rats who need the name of your cold-hearted ex. Popular sportsbook BET US is inviting scorned exes to find players and officially draft them onto their team for $15. Certificates will be available upon completion, and you have until the 14th to join the fun. Even better for a bitter heart? The best stories from participants will be chosen for their rats to be drafted into the starting five — putting your ex’s bad behavior on display for all bball fans to see.
16. Secure your spot to this “Off Grid Wine” Tasting That Takes You Directly To France!
La Paulée is an annual wine experience, and this year, it’s celebrating its 25th Anniversary on March 6th-8th. La Paulée Off Grid: A Tasting of Burgundy’s Hidden Gems will feature a selection of over 75 wines from all the major regions of Burgundy. For our readers, you get a 15% discount when you book using the code SECRETNYC at checkout for the Off Grid event!
There will also be fine cuisine from a selection of New York restaurants and purveyors such as Gotham Burger Social Club, Winner, Popina, and Terroir. You’ll find that many dinners and tastings for La Paulée are filled up, so be sure to snag your tickets while you can!
17. Strike a pose at New York Fashion Week
All the city’s a catwalk once New York Fashion Week kicks off. From February 6th to 11th, the world’s best designers descend upon New York to show off their amazing collections. Expect shows from luxury brands like Tory Burch, Coach, Anna Sui, Carolina Herrera, and Christian Siriano, to name a select few. Plus, you never know who will be in attendance!
18. Check out the annual Orchid Show at NYBG
For a floral fix like none other, venture to the New York Botanical Garden’s annual Orchid Show. This year’s presentation, Mexican Modernism, celebrates the work of Luis Barragán and transform the grounds into a vibrant, colorful world.
19. Escape to the Italian Alps via Eataly
No trip abroad required for an authentic Italian experience: Eataly’s ALPINA highlights cuisine from the northern regions of Italy and provides a cozy winter experience to boot. From Canederli, traditional bread, and speck gnocchi to Cotoletta alla Valdostana (a crunchy chicken cutlet with prosciutto and cheese on top), there are plenty of delightful dishes to enjoy.
20. Check out NYFW Powered by Art Hearts Fashion
New York Fashion Week is about to descend upon the city with its glitz and glam. When you venture to the Angel Orensanz Foundation, you’ll get a sneak peek of the season’s best looks, new creators on the scene, and even the occasional celebrity!
21. Enjoy this super-cool (literally) ice carving show
Head to Governors Island to Saturday, February 8th at noon to get a first-hand look at winter’s greatest activity: ice carving. Ten artists will show their carving chops and dazzle us with their creativity. While there, visitors can also enjoy ice carving workshops from Okamoto Studio, crafts from Red Hook Art Project, live music from The Illustrious Blacks, and a performance from Fogo Azul.
22. Stop by Mystry Mart at the Brooklyn Museum
Looking to support local NYC creators *and* add some flair to your digs? You’re in luck. Brooklyn Museum has an awesome new artists-inspired vending machine that will shell out goodies like prints, jewelry, keychains, and other knick-knacks from the city’s most talented artists. Prices range from $10 to $100, but unlike your typical vending machine, you won’t know what you receive until you unwrap it. The concept is from Victoria Orlovskaya and Eugene Bell, and artist Lizzy Itzkowitz brought the colorful machine to life.
23. Get some r&r at the new Brooklyn Bathhouse
We could all use a little down time, so why not venture to the new Brooklyn Bathouse to soak up some zen vibes? Enjoy wellness features like a dry sauna, wet sauna, steam room, heated pools, and a cold pool plunge.
24. Stop by The Jack Shainman Gallery’s stunning new locale
The Jack Shainman Gallery is officially open in its opulent new Tribeca location, the historic Clock Tower Building, complete with marble columns, arched windows, and coffered ceiling. It’s only fitting that this landmark celebrates its new inhabitants with an exhibit from Chicago-based artist Nick Cave, titled Amalgams and Graphts, which brings 26-feet bronze sculptures, or “Amalgams,” to NYC.
25. Celebrate Unsent Letters’ first birthday
Since February 2024, the mailbox has made its way through NYC parks — particularly ones with a slower, welcoming pace — and those passing by continue to share what’s on their mind. And the movement grew into the Write To Read, an anonymous reading salon. Now, to celebrate one year of letters, the Unsent Letters crew will set up shop at Unarthodox (547 W 27th St) on February 18th at 7pm. Learn more on Instagram.
26. Watch the Super Bowl at one of our favorite sports bars
The big game is nearly here, and once again the Chiefs and Eagles will face off. If you’re looking to catch the exciting game and Halftime performance (and any Taylor Swift cameos), stop by one of our favorite bars for good eats and a good game.
27. Revel in Super Bowl nostalgia
The Paley Center for Media is hosting exclusive Super Bowl exhibits any NFL fan will appreciate. You can check out the legendary Vince Lombardi Trophy and championship rings from all 58 Super Bowl-winning teams, jerseys loaned from the Pro Football Hall of Fame, and extraordinary contributions of Black athletes in Super Bowl history to coincide with Black History Month.
28. Listen to T-Swift in a whole new way
Broadway Sings Taylor Swift is a chance to see and hear hit songs with a new twist! Broadway stars hit the stage backed by a 16-piece orchestra. Fans will hear notable tunes like “I Can Do It With A Broken Heart,” “Love Story,” “Shake It Off,” “Wildest Dreams” and more. Be sure to to catch the only show this month on Feb. 9th, you’ll need to wait until April for this particular show to come back around.
29. Enjoy Flatiron’s fabulous Winter Glow
The Flatiron NoMad Partnership will welcome Spectrum by Mirari from QDSinternational and Les Diamants by Perséides Studio to light up the neighborhood. The life-size, interactive art displays encourage participation while pushing boundaries. Spectrum asks those passing by to talk into a series of rings. Upon doing so, their voices and sounds will transform into luminous waves. Meanwhile, Les Diamants are 13-foot-tall “spinning tops” with illuminated rods that make for quite a vibrant Instagram opp when spun. The fun runs through January 16th to February 28th.
30. Check out new Broadway shows
The Great White Way is being treated to a star-studded lineup in 2025 and features an ‘80s remake, a Shakespeare retelling, and an adorable cartoon character brought to life. What are you going to add to your theater wish list?
31. Get stumped by Mindplay
After sold-out shows at L.A.’s Geffen Playhouse and D.C.’s Arena Stage, the critically acclaimed Mindplay is now open at the intimate Greenwich House Theater in Manhattan’s West Village, blending audience participation and awe-inspiring theatrics where illusion and memory intertwine! Expect plenty of gasps and “How did he do thats” along the way.
32. See Trisha Paytas on Broadway for one night only
Head to the St. James Theater on Monday, February 3rd, to experience the one-night-only production, Trisha Paytas’ Big Broadway Dream. Who knows? Once the internet sensation wraps things up, perhaps she’ll find her way into a more permanent theater roll.
33. See Paul Mescal in A Streetcar Named Desire
Normal People heartthrob and Gladiator badass, Paul Mescal’s next stop in the stage. He will assume the role of Stanley Kowalski in Tennessee Williams’ A Streetcar Named Desire alongside Patsy Ferran’s Blanche DuBois. The show gets underway at BAM, running from February 28th to April 6th, 2025.
34. Check out a new movie
From remakes to horror newbies, family-friendly animation and the end of a long-standing action franchise, 2025‘s lineup is guaranteed to turn anyone into a film buff. On our radars this month? Love Hurts, Kinda Pregnant, and Captain America: Brave New World.
35. Dine at the reopening of The View, NYC’s only rotating restaurant
Danny Meyer’s Union Square Hospitality Group will reimagine The View, a rotating restaurant nestled in one of NYC’s beloved hotels, New York Marriott Marquis, which was previously closed. It will reopen — just in time for Valentine’s Day dinners — on February 12th. Reservations are currently open on the restaurant’s website.
36. See the best exhibits at NYC museums
Whether you’re interested in art or science, design or history, NYC’s best exhibits have something worth exploring. Have a look at what’s on view now and plan your next gallery-hopping day accordingly.
37. Feel nostalgic with this ode to Coney Island in the ‘80s
Cue the nostalgia: there’s a Coney Island art exhibit that dials back the clock to the late ’80s. Christopher Spinelli, who is known for his vibrant color and thick texture, has gotten New Yorkers’ attention for his intricately-painted pianos. His latest exhibit steps away from the instrument and celebrates the beachside neighborhood at the end of the B line through acrylic paintings. “Brooklyn Dreamland, Land Without Shadows” is on view at the Arsenal Gallery until March 14th.
38. Celebrate NYC’s unofficial mascot, Flaco
“The Year of Flaco” is flying into the New-York Historical Society to take a look back at the Eurasian eagle-owl’s year wandering around NYC upon his escape from Central Park. The exhibit opens on February 7th.
39. Cheer on the Rangers at one of NYC’s best bars
It’s been a challenging time for Rangers fans, but we’re still going to stand behind the Blue Shirts this season as they work their way back up to the top. These Ranger bars are perfect for watching a game if you don’t want to venture to MSG.
40. Take a class
The winter is the perfect time to hone your craft or explore a new hobby. Cooking, crafting, and creating are all on the docket of the best classes in NYC.
41. Explore free things to do in NYC
Look, we get it: NYC ain’t cheap. However, there are plenty of free activities taking place throughout the city that lets you take in the best experiences on a budget (or lack thereof). From free entry to the Whitney (for those 25 and under) to free ice skating at Brooklyn Bridge Park for Kings County residents, there are plenty of complimentary activities to scoop up.
42. Venture on a winter hike
Enjoy bucolic scenes and brisk air on one of NYC’s best winter hike trails, which are perfect for all experience levels. What better way to celebrate the season?
43. Get your wellness on at our favorite spas
Ready for some zen? We can’t blame you. Start the new year on a positive note with a visit to one of our favorite wellness retreats to soak in a bathhouse, revel in a massage, or enjoy a mani-pedi. Self-care is mandatory.
44. Join Cupid’s Undie Run for a good cause
Cupid’s Undie Run asks participants to strip down to their tighty whities for a cold run, all to raise money and awareness for Neurofibromatosis. This year’s event is taking place on February 8th, and registration is required.
45. Go ice skating
Time to hit the ice! Slide, glide, and triple axel your way through the city’s best rinks, including the newly-opened waterfront rink at Domino Park.
46. Book ice bumper cars at Bryant Park
From January 10th until Sunday, March 1st, Bryant Park visitors can hop aboard the frosty version of the amusement park staple at the ice rink. If you gravitate toward bumper cars while at Coney Island, you’ll love ’em in all of their winterized glory.
47. Go curling 1,100 feet above NYC streets
Edge’s new Sky Chalet is inviting visitors to curl far above the city streets, and we’re totally here for the fun and the view. Keep in mind, curling only runs until March.
48. Ring In Pokémon Day
Head to Nintendo New York (10 Rockefeller Plaza) to celebrate a milestone in the gaming sector: the first Pokémon game’s release in February of 1996. You gotta catch all the *free* offerings: character meet-and-greets (4 to 7pm), enjoy fan art, snag freebies, and a Pokémon screening at 9am, to name a few things to enjoy. Learn more on the Pokémon website.
49. Try to make your way out of these spooky escape rooms
Halloween might be months away, but the Haunted in Hollis escape room provides plenty of spooky situations to keep you entertained. From a haunted hotel heist to a room filled with creepy dolls, this experience is perfect for horror fans.
50. Sip hot chocolate
Our favorite wintertime sips will always be best hot chocolate in NYC (with a dollop of whipped cream…and maybe even a drizzle of hot fudge if we’re feeling adventurous). Once the weather plummets, we can’t help but crave a sweet, warm treat. Fortunately, there are plenty of eateries around the city that take cocoa to unthinkable levels. No matter how you take your cocoa — white hot chocolate, red velvet hot chocolate, or the good ‘ol OG — NYC has you covered.
51. Have a bowl of ramen…
‘Tis the season of comfort foods, and nothing is quite as satisfying as a hearty bowl of ramen from one of our favorite locales across the city.
52. …or mac n’ cheese
Should you want a warm bowl of comfort food but don’t want to slurp ramen, we recommend a cheesy, hearty scoop of mac n’ cheese to satisfy your appetite.
53. Explore NYC with your kiddos…
Even the littlest New Yorkers want to take a bite out of the Big Apple — that’s where our list of things to do with kids in NYC comes in. We scoped out the city from a youngster’s vantage point — from fun interactive exhibits to places to eat — and we discovered a bunch of great experiences the whole family will love.
54. …or teens
Teens are a tricky bunch, but there are plenty of ways to keep them entertained in NYC. Our list of immersive experiences, escape rooms, arcades, and beyond will earn parents major points.
55. Check out “Apocalypse Noir”
Andrew Barret Cox, the mastermind behind Drag Race singles, assumes the role of host for “Apocalypse Noir” at Balcon Salon (674 9th Ave). For a sensual twist on dark cabarets, this combo of drag, theater, and nightlife sees performers belting out your favorites (think ““River Deep Mountain High” and “Judas”) while attendees sip on delightful spirits.
“We want to create a space that celebrates community for everyone, not just gay cis men,” Andrew said of the show. “I want audiences to leave feeling like they just saw a show worth paying for.”
Catch the fun show Monday beginning at 9:45pm
BONUS: Get outta town
If you want to put your PTO to good use, our guide to the best winter getaways from NYC is your answer. Skiing, snow tubing, gallery hopping, and cozy dinners are all on tap at our favorite destinations across the east coast.
