Things to Do this February in South Bend
We're heading into the heart of winter.
February means we're one step closer to spring, but there are plenty of things to check off your winter to-do list before the big thaw arrives. Here are a few ideas for things to do in The Bend this February.
Dine Out During Winter Restaurant Weeks
Attention, fellow foodies: Some of South Bend's best locally owned restaurants are calling. Winter Restaurant Weeks takes place Jan. 23-Feb. 8 in downtown South Bend. Local favorites are offering up unique menus with special pricing.
Taste Brews at South Bend BrewFest
Head over to the Century Center for 2026 South Bend BrewFest Feb. 7. Celebrate the kickoff to this year's winter Olympics with a podium-worthy lineup of brews, cheers and championship-level fun. Get off to a head start and go for gold with the VIP Experience, starting one full hour earlier to taste 85 beers and go home with a sampling mug, lanyard, commemorative t-shirt and glass beer mug.
Celebrate Valentine's, or Galentine's!
February reminds us to let those closest to us know we care about them. Whether it be a sweetheart or a sweet friend, there are plenty of ways to celebrate your special bond this month. Take your Valentine to dinner at one of these Romantic places for Valentine's Day or get inspired by our list of ways to spend Valentine's Day in The Bend. No date? No problem! Check out this inspo for ways to spend Galentine's Day.
Celebrate Black History Month
Black History Month is a great time to explore the rich history of the local African American community. There are several historic sites to explore on our list, most notably the Indiana University South Bend Civil Rights Heritage Center. Built in 1922 as a segregated public pool, the CRHC is now an inclusive gathering spot and museum.
Catch a Notre Dame Game
Did you think game days were just for the fall? Not so fast! Notre Dame's women's basketball, hockey and men's basketball programs are in the heart of their seasons. Check out the home games in February below.
Women's Basketball
- Feb. 5 | Virginia Tech | 7 p.m.
- Feb. 15 | NC State | 4 p.m.
- Feb. 26 | Syracuse | 7 p.m.
Hockey
- Feb. 13-14 | Minnesota | 7 p.m., 6 p.m.
- Feb. 27-28 | Penn State | 7 p.m., 6 p.m.
Men's Basketball
- Feb. 7 | Florida State | 4 p.m.
- Feb. 14 | Georgia Tech | 12 p.m.
- Feb. 24 | Duke | 7 p.m.
- Feb. 28 | NC State | 12 p.m.
Go Ice Skating
Ice skating is a winter staple in The Bend and there are a couple options. Ironworks Ice Rink in Mishawaka not only has ice skating — you can also try ice bumper cars and Icebykes.
Howard Park in South Bend is wildly popular for its ice trail, not to mention the playground, hot chocolate and firepits.
For the Love of Art Fair
Enjoy a day of shopping for original works of art by nearly 50 artists from all over the Midwest at the For the Love of Art Fair Feb. 7-8 at Century Center. You can also expect smooth music, fine wine and tasty treats.
Watch the "Big Game"
Locals had a huge football game to tune in to last month, and there's another big game on the way Feb. 8. Check our event listings for watch parties around The Bend.
Celebrate Presidents' Day
The History Museum and Studebaker National Museum are offering discounted admission for Presidents' Day Feb. 16. Be sure to check out Studebaker's Presidential Carriage Tour which features the Barouche that President Abraham Lincoln used the night of his assassination. 30-minute carriage-side talks will be offered at 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. where staff will share information on the history and preservation of these iconic carriages. Tours of the Oliver Mansion will also be offered.
Find Your Favorite Paczki
Fat Tuesday is Feb. 17 and locals know what that means..."Paczki Day!" There are some great local bakeries to find the most delectible Polish treat you've ever had. Check our list for the best places to find paczki in South Bend, and learn a little about them!
RELATED CONTENT: Polish Heritage & Culture in South Bend, Around The Bend: Macri's Italian Bakery
Fat Tuesday at Chicory Cafe
Feel the Mardi Gras vibes at Chicory Cafe South Bend Feb. 17. Expect beads and New Orleans faves such as junbalaya, gumbo, muffulettas and beignets. Can't forget the live music and huricane specials!
Try Cross Country Skiing, Tubing and Snowshoeing
We're big into outdoor activities in the winter time — it's a fantastic time to try something new. Cross country skis and snowshoes are available for rent at St. Patrick's County Park. There's also a popular tubing hill. George Wilson Park in Mishawaka is another great place to take the family out for some tubing.
Keep in mind, these activities require a great snowpack. It's always best to check snow conditions in advance.
Love, South Bend Symphony Orchestra + The Bergamot
Love and music are in the air Feb. 14 for the Love, South Bend Symphony Orchestra + The Bergamot Valentine's collaboration at the Morris Performing Arts Center. Get your tickets for a magical evening!
90's Party at Four Winds Casino
Throw it back to the 90's at Four Winds Casino's 90's Party Feb. 27. DJ Jellie Fish will be providing fresh tunes while you show up in your 90's best for a chance to win Four Winds gift cards. It'll be all that and a bag of chips!
Bowling, Laser Tag, Virtual Reality and More
Some days just call for staying inside. You can find a bunch of fun activities — bowling, laser tag, virtual reality, bumper cars, etc. — at a few places in Mishawaka: Generations AdventurePlex, Sky Zone Trampoline Park and Strikes and Spares Entertainment Center. Check out a brand new duckpin bowling spot in downtown South Bend, Ivy Alley Social House.
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