WNC -- February in Western North Carolina offers a unique blend of winter's chill and the first hints of spring. From mountain towns celebrating the beauty of ice to the quirky traditions of forecasting rodents, here are the major outdoor events planned for the region this month.
Haywood County: Ice Fest & Nature Walks
The month kicks off with the grand finale of one of the county’s biggest winter traditions.
Ice Fest Weekend (Waynesville & Maggie Valley): Wrapping up on February 1, this festival features stunning ice sculptures throughout downtown Waynesville.
February 1: A second performance of the "Cool Jazz Concert" at the HART Theatre in Waynesville at 2:00 PM.
February 1: Final day of the ice skating rink at Sorrells Street Park in Canton (Noon – 5:00 PM).
Nature Walk at Lake Junaluska: Join the Pollinators Foundation on February 3 at 4:00 PM for a guided walk starting at the Labyrinth. This is a great way to observe the local ecosystem as it shifts toward spring.
Regional Tradition: Groundhog Day
The eyes of the mountains will be on the "official" regional forecast on February 2.
21st Annual Groundhog Day (Chimney Rock State Park): Head to the Animal Discovery Den at 10:00 AM to see Tater the Groundhog.
The event includes winter-themed crafts, animal education, and Tater’s famous dual-prediction for both the spring weather and the Super Bowl winner.
Buncombe County & Asheville: Active Outdoors
Asheville and Fletcher host several major gatherings this month that encourage people to get moving despite the cold.
Naturalist Walk and Talk (NC Arboretum): On February 13 at 1:00 PM, staff naturalists lead a guided trek through the Arboretum trails to identify winter flora and fauna.
Forest Bathing (NC Arboretum): A more meditative outdoor experience, this nature immersion retreat takes place on February 14 at 2:00 PM and includes a wild-foraged tea ceremony.
Asheville Mardi Gras Parade: On February 15 at 3:05 PM, the South Slope district transforms into a vibrant outdoor street festival with the annual parade.
Frostbite Races (Fletcher): Also on February 15, the Frostbite 10k, 5k, and 1-mile fun run take place at 2:00 PM. This is one of the region’s largest winter running events.
Surrounding Areas: Unique Challenges
Outhouse Races (Sapphire): For one of the most unique outdoor spectacles in the state, head to Sapphire on February 7 for the annual Outhouse Races, where teams race homemade "privies" on skis.
Mideast Hare Scramble (Mill Spring): Off-road racing enthusiasts can catch motorcycles and ATVs tackling rugged terrain at Tryon International on February 7.
This article date January 26, 2026
WNCTimes
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