Welcome to February, the longest shortest month of the year!
Am I the only one who thinks February lasts forever, even though it’s only 28 days, has a week of school vacation, and, in my family, two birthdays? Maybe all that activity is what makes it drag so. But never mind. I’ve gathered up a list of family-friendly activities to keep you busy enjoying all the white stuff on the ground this month. (Note: this is absolutely not a comprehensive list, just what’s come across my desk in the last few weeks. If you know of something happening, put it below in the comments. Also, I’m not affiliated with these events, don’t complain to me if they are sold out, no fun, etc.)
February 1 Washington County Community College’s Adventure Center and the Moosehorn Wildlife Refuge are having a Family Fun Day from 8:30-2 with workshops on cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. More information here
February 7 Ellsworth is holding its annual Winter Carnival with a cardboard sled race, snowmobile sled rides, and the Clam Boot Classic hockey tournament. More information here
If that sounds too crowded for you, Downeast Coastal Conservancy will be holding a snowshoe animal tracking workshop for kids and adults in Jonesboro. If you haven’t taught your kids how to find tracks, you are missing out. It can transform the most boring winter walk. More information here
February 13-15 The Great Maine Outdoor Weekend has events happening all over the state all weekend. It’s worth giving a look to see what’s happening near you. More information here
February 14 Maine Audubon will be holding their Great Maine Weekend Outdoor Celebration at Fields Pond from 11-2. Snowshoeing, sledding and science and art projects from the Maine Discovery Museum. More information here
Great Pond Mountain Conservation Trust in Orland is having a Wild Winter Fun Day, complete with a family-friendly Winter Scramble obstacle course from 1-3. More information here
February 21 Winter Fun Day in Machias! Sledding, hot chocolate, snow art, hot chocolate, showshoeing, hot chocolate… More information and hot chocolate here
February 22 The Quarry Snow Shuffle is happening in Waterville, with a one-mile family fun run/walk starting at 9:30. More information here
Also that day, the Lewiston Auburn Ice Festival has its free Family Day from 11-2. More information here
February 28 Family Race Day at Shawnee Peak. Race an obstacle course with your family and mock the people you beat. I mean, uh, use this opportunity to teach good sportsmanship. More information here
What will you be doing this month? Let me know!
P.S. If your kids are in 5th, 6th, or 7th grade, you may want to visit Winter Kids to see if their passport program makes sense for you. It’s a great deal!