I know it’s cold, and there’s nothing I’d rather do than burrow under the blankets with my pets. But let’s put down the remote for a second and look outside. There are so many events happening this month that are sure to get you out and in the community. There are even ways to keep in touch with nature while staying warm indoors. Here’s a look at some of our Hometown Happenings this month, and be sure to check the bottom of the page for other events to keep on your radar (with Valentine’s Day falling on a Saturday, there are some daytime events for the kids).
Drop-in Workshop: Heart Moss-arium
Jungle House Goods | Now through February 28
One thing we really like about Jungle House Goods as that they’ve been pretty consistent with ways to keep folks active in a way that puts their hands to work. The plant store hosts craft workshops, including this months’ Heart Moss-arium. You can build a moss terrariums for your sweetheart this Valentine’s Day, create them as a couple, of make one for yourself and bring some fresh air into your home. Workshop cost is $20.
Ovation! USD 497 Talent Show
Lied Center | February 1
This is a really popular event in Lawrence and showcases our community’s up-and-coming stars. The Lawrence Schools Foundation hosts this fundraiser every year, which features performers from grades across the district at this talent show. This is a great way to get students exposure on the big stage while delighting their friends and families. Can you believe this is the 10th year for the event?
World Wetlands Day
Baker Wetlands | February 7
This is a wonderful way to connect with nature during the winter months. World Wetlands Day is an annual event across the world, and this year’s theme is “Wetlands and Traditional Knowledge: Celebrating Cultural Heritage.” Bring the family out for this free event, interact with local organizations and departments, and learn more about conservation projects.
What Does It Mean To Be United?
Dole Institute of Politics | February 11
For those of you who are civic-minded, the Dole Institute of Politics is hosting this upcoming program that features former Kansas State Senator Jeff King and journalist Mark McCormick. This year they are both serving as Spring 2026 Dole Fellows. Their series, “Life, Liberty, and the Pursuit of Happiness: Principles that Built a Nation” will dive into principles behind America’s founding and how they shape today’s world.
Breakfast with the Animals
February 13 | Prairie Park Nature Center
We just love events like this. Prairie Park Nature Center is one of our favorite “escape the cold weather” hot spots when the kids are bored and need to get out of the house. They’re hosting “Breakfast with the Animals” this month ($35). Visitors will not only learn about animals and their eating habits, but enjoy some crafts and games as well. If you’re unable to make this one (or you’re just not a breakfast person), you might want to mark your calendar for Spaghetti Dinner with the Animals later this month on February 27.
The Lawrence Mardi Gras Parade
Downtown Lawrence | February 17
Listen, we know that we live in highly volatile times. But if there’s one thing we can count on, it’s the Lawrence Mardi Gras Parade. This event happens rain or shine (and it definitely rained on the parade last year). To us, this is one of the true indicators that brighter times are ahead after a long and dark winter. It’s one of the most joyful things you can do in Lawrence, surrounded by zydeco, brass, and more colorful costumes than we can count. The River City Brass Band kicks off the parade at noon at Lucia, continuing down the sidewalk, weaving in and out of businesses, with a brief stop at Free State Brewery before invading Terrebonne. So if you’re eating lunch at either of these fine establishments, expect a noisy concert in tow.
RIYL: Very Lawrence vibes, watching me attempt to play an accordion.
