Are you planning a trip to Florida in February? You’re in for a treat!
The Sunshine State is not just about beaches and theme parks – though we’ve got those too.
This month, the state comes alive with a smorgasbord of must-see events and festivals that’ll make your vacation unforgettable.
From artsy extravaganzas to Renaissance fairs, and from food truck feasts to high-octane races, I’ve got the scoop on the best places to visit in Florida this February.
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Key Takeaways
- February in Florida offers a diverse range of cultural festivals and events with temperatures in mid-70 degrees Fahrenheit.
- The EPCOT International Festival of the Arts showcases a vibrant mix of artistic expressions.
- The Florida State Fair is a family-friendly event featuring entertainment and agricultural exhibits.
- The World of Nations Celebration highlights cultural diversity through food and performances.
- Community engagement and romantic events are a common theme across all February events in Florida.
As you can see, each location provides unique experiences, making Florida a top February getaway destination. Find out why below.
1. EPCOT International Festival of the Arts
Calling all art lovers! EPCOT’s Festival of the Arts is a feast for the senses that’ll knock your socks off.
This vibrant celebration brings together visual, musical, and culinary arts in one epic package from January 17 to February 24, 2025.
I love it here because the weather is AMAZING in Florida and the food is really good here. Plus, you’ll get all of the Disney magic on top of everything.
What makes it special? Think Disney magic meets artistic flair. You’ll find:
- Live performances by Broadway stars
- Interactive art experiences
- Stunning food studios serving up Instagram-worthy dishes
Just be sure to grab your Festival Passport to track your artsy adventures.
And don’t miss the chance to chat with Disney artists – they’re super friendly and full of insider knowledge!
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2. Florida State Fair in Tampa, Florida
Are you ready for some good ol’ fashioned fun? The Florida State Fair is where it’s at!
This agricultural extravaganza, which is held in Tampa from February 6-17, 2025, is more than just funnel cakes and Ferris wheels.
I love all of the classic “Florida feels” I get whenever I visit this fair.
What makes it special?
Here you’ll enjoy:
- Showcases Florida’s rich farming heritage
- A combination of education with entertainment
- Quirky competitions (pig races, anyone?)
- Chow down on deep-fried everything
- Try your luck at carnival games
- Catch thrilling live shows and concerts
- The fun amusement park rides
Just remember to wear comfy shoes since you’ll be doing a ton of walking. And don’t forget to snap a selfie with the giant butter sculpture!
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3. Florida Renaissance Fair in Deerfield Beach, Florida
Step back in time at the Florida Renaissance Fair, where history comes alive with a dash of whimsy from February 1, 2025 until March 23, 2025!
With lots of daily stage shows and immersive themed experiences blended with history and entertainment, you are sure to find something fun to do here.
I love this time period so visiting Renaissance Fairs are definitely my thing.
What makes it special?
You’ll enjoy exciting things to do such as:
- Watching jousting tournaments
- Trying your hand at archery
- Feasting on turkey legs and mead
- Coming up-close to an elephant
HIPSTER POWER TIP: Be sure to dress up in period costume for the full experience, and bring cash for the artisan vendors. Don’t forget to catch the hilarious The King’s Drawers – it’s a crowd favorite!
4. World of the Nations Festival in Jacksonville, Florida
Ready for a global adventure without leaving the Sunshine State?
Jacksonville’s World of Nations Celebration is your ticket to an international extravaganza on February 22nd and 23rd of 2025!
What makes it special?
You’ll love the melting pot of cultures from around the world.
Plus, you’ll get to enjoy the authentic cuisine from various countries and the vibrant performances showcasing diverse traditions
Fun Things to Do:
- Sample exotic dishes from food vendors
- Watch traditional dance and music shows
- Participate in interactive cultural workshops
Remember to bring cash for food and souvenirs, and wear comfy shoes for exploring.
I also recommend that you don’t shy away from trying new things – it’s all about broadening your horizons!
Get more Jacksonville travel planning tips right here!
5. Strawberry Festival in Plant City, Florida
Get ready to paint the town red (and juicy) at the sweetest shindig in Florida!
The Strawberry Festival in Plant City is a berry lover’s paradise (and a local favorite) that’ll have you grinning from ear to ear from February 27 to March 9, 2025.
What makes it special?
Here you’ll get to:
- Celebrates Florida’s strawberry harvest
- Enjoy the combination of agriculture, entertainment, and community spirit
- Watch top-notch musical performances from groups such as Boyz II Men
- Indulge in strawberry-everything (shortcake, anyone?)
- Enjoy thrilling midway rides
- Check out livestock shows and exhibits
HIPSTER POWER TIP: Bring your stretchy pants and arrive early to beat the crowds. Oh, and don’t forget to snag a flat of fresh strawberries to take home – they’re the best souvenir ever!
6. Miami Wine and Food Festival
Foodies and wine enthusiasts, get ready to tantalize your taste buds at the Miami Wine and Food Festival (AKA South Beach Wine and Food Festival)!
This gastronomic extravaganza is where culinary artistry meets the tropical and luxury vibes of Miami, Florida from February 20 to February 23, 2025.
What makes it special?
Here you’ll get to enjoy:
- Miami’s diverse culinary scene
- The top-notch local and international wines
- A combination of gourmet food with stunning waterfront views
- Sample exquisite dishes from celebrity chefs
- Sip on rare vintages and craft cocktails
Attend cooking demonstrations and wine seminars
It’s truly one of the best things to do in Florida during February.
Just remember to pace yourself (there’s a lot to taste!), bring business cards for networking, and consider splurging on seminar tickets for exclusive access.
Oh, and don’t forget to snap pics of those mouthwatering dishes – your Insta followers will thank you!
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7. Mardi Gras at Universal Studios Florida
Laissez les bons temps rouler at Universal’s Mardi Gras extravaganza! This Big Easy-inspired bash brings the spirit of New Orleans to Orlando, minus the hangover.
And I’m a ThemeParkHipster so this is one of my favorite things to do in Florida during February!
This year it will be taking place from February 1, 2025 to March 30, 2025.
What makes it special?
Here you’ll enjoy the:
- Authentic Cajun cuisine and colorful parades
- Star-studded concert lineup
- Family-friendly twist on a classic celebration
- Catch beads during the nightly parade
- Groove to live music at the French Quarter Courtyard
- Indulge in beignets and jambalaya
Just remember to arrive early to snag a good parade spot, and don’t be shy about joining the dance party – everyone’s invited to let loose!
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8. Daytona 500 in Daytona Beach, Florida
Rev up your engines, race fans! The Daytona 500 is the crown jewel of NASCAR, and it’s roaring into town on February 16, 2025.
This high-octane event is more than just a race – it’s a full-blown spectacle that’ll get your adrenaline pumping during this iconic “Great American Race.”
What makes it special?
This event:
- Attracts top drivers from around the world
- Has an electric atmosphere with 100,000+ fans
- Allows you to tour the pits and see race cars up close
- Enjoy pre-race concerts and festivities
- Experience the thunderous start from the grandstands
HIPSTER POWER TIP: Remember to bring earplugs (it gets loud!), arrive early to beat traffic, and don’t forget sunscreen (the Florida sun is no joke, even in February). Oh, and keep your eyes peeled for celebrity sightings – you never know who might pop up at this star-studded event!
9. Garlic Festival in Delray Beach, Florida
Garlic lovers, rejoice! The Delray Beach Garlic Fest is a pungent paradise that’ll knock your socks off (and maybe clear your sinuses).
What makes it special?
Here you can come and celebrate the “stinking rose” in all its glory along with gourmet garlic-infused dishes, music, and the community spirit!
You’ll also get to sample garlic ice cream (yes, really!), watch cooking demos by celebrity chefs, and rock out to live music on multiple stages
Don’t forget to bring breath mints (for obvious reasons), wear comfy shoes for dancing, and come hungry – you’ll want to try everything.
Oh, and don’t be shy about embracing your inner vampire slayer – garlic breath is a badge of honor here!
10. Black History Month Tour in Tallahassee, Florida
Tallahassee’s Black History Month Tour is a must-do for anyone looking to dive deep into Florida’s rich African American heritage.
What makes it special?
Here you’ll get to explore often-overlooked historical sites in Tallahassee and have a passionate guide take you on an educational journey with emotional impact.
Just be sure to wear comfy walking shoes, bring a notebook for jotting down interesting facts, and don’t be shy about asking questions – the guides love sharing their knowledge!
Honorable Mentions
Alright, Hipster, I’ve got a few more hidden gems for you to explore in Florida this February!
These events might not be headliners, but they’re definitely worth checking out:
- The 30th Annual International Bazaar in Tallahassee is a cultural smorgasbord that’ll tickle your taste buds and broaden your horizons. Think global cuisine, handcrafted goods, and performances from around the world.
- Panama City Beach Food Truck & Craft Beer Festival – Picture this: dozens of food trucks serving up gourmet bites, paired with a hoppy selection of craft beers – all with your toes in the sand!
- SeaWorld Orlando Seven Seas Festival – This aquatic wonderland transforms into a foodie paradise, serving up international flavors with a side of marine magic.
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My Final Thoughts
Florida in February is a treasure trove of experiences! From art festivals to food fairs, there’s something for everyone.
Remember to pack sunscreen and comfy shoes – you’ll be on your feet a lot!
Plan ahead, but leave room for spontaneous adventures. Whether you’re a foodie, history buff, or thrill-seeker, the Sunshine State’s got you covered.
So what are you waiting for? Book that trip and dive into Florida’s February fun!
Until next time, Happy Florida Travels!
About the Author
My name is NikkyJ. I’m a wife, a mother, a pharmacist turned theme park blogger, USA Today 10Best Contributor, and a writer who loves exploring all the hidden gems of Florida!
I was born and raised in Leesburg, Florida which attributes to my passion about for this amazing state.
I want to show you how you can create your own memories while discovering the Sunshine State!
Connect with me on Instagram!
