Between Mardi Gras and Valentine's Day, there's plenty on the calendar this month. Everything from cozy wine dinners to third-wheel parties and even a Cupid-themed fun run in undies. And finally, it's the official kick-off to oyster festival season. Here are some of the best things going down in Atlanta this February.
Atlanta Ballet Moulin Rouge | Feb 5 – 13
Ooh, la la! The Atlanta Ballet is back with the most famous cabaret in the world. Set in bohemian Paris, it’s a love story that is beautiful and tragic all at once. A great way to kick off your Valentine’s Day celebrations. Tickets begin at only $20.
Groundhog Day Jugglers Festival | Feb. 5-7
For the 38th year, the Atlanta Jugglers Association will be celebrating Groundhog Day the only way they know how: by juggling. Nearly 200 jugglers will gather at the Yaarab Shrine Center to perform and teach attendees how to juggle for themselves. Celebrate either six more weeks of cold or the impending warmth of spring.
Makan Lunar New Year Celebration |. Feb. 6
Makan will host a traditional Lunar New Year celebration on February 6. Guests will snack on dumplings, noodles, pork buns and egg rolls. Athens brewery, Creature Comforts, will take over the beer taps. Entertainment includes a lion dance performance. Tickets are $20 for food and an additional $20 for unlimited beer.
Mardi Gras Streetcar Adventure | Feb 6
Multiple locations
Atlanta Bar Tours is putting together a little taste of the Big Easy just in time for Mardi Gras. Revelers will use the Atlanta streetcar to explore Downtown. Tickets include beads, Mardi Gras swag, and five drinks from participating restaurants that include Park Bar, Noni’s Joystick and more. Tickets begin at $20.
Ringling Bros. Circus| Feb. 10 – 28
Gather kids of all ages for a night at the circus. This year, The Greatest Show On Earth is taking it up a notch with Xtreme. Phillips Arena will be filled with clowns, acrobats and performers of all kinds performing extraordinary feats. This will be the final year to see the elephants, as they will be moved to a sanctuary in May.
White Oak Kitchen's Evening with Reds | Feb. 12 – 14
Romance is in the air at White Oak Kitchen for their 4th annual red wine dinner. Chef Todd Richards will prepare a four-course menu, each paired with a red wine from France. Courses include a smoked breast of quail, thyme crusted Arctic char, coffee rubbed New York strip and a chocolate tasting.
Cupid's Undie Run | Feb 13
http://www.cupidsundierun.com/
Put on your best underwear, and take a jog through Buckhead. No, this won’t get you arrested. It’s the annual Cupid Undie Run to raise money for the Children’s Tumor Foundation. Runners must be 21 and over, and registration is $45 until February 6 when it goes to $55. It’s only a mile long, so all level of runners are welcome.
Lover's Lane in Inman Park | Feb. 13
Do you need a gift for your sweetheart? Or some indulgence on that romantic weekend? Take a troll through Inman Quarter to explore all of the shops and restaurants there. Each spot on the provided map will offer a complimentary experience. Those experiences include champagne toasts at MF Sushi, oysters at Beetlecat, chocolate dipped strawberries from Bill Hallman and discounts galore. The event begins at 2 p.m. at Made Again.
Third Wheel Party at Proof and Provision | Feb 13
There’s no shame in being the third wheel this year. Couples are invited to bring a single friend to Proof and Provision’s Third Wheel Party. Specials will include 3-for-2 beer and 3-for-2 cocktails. Party the night away and maybe the third wheel will find love just in time for Valentine’s Day.
Park Tavern Oysterfest | Feb 13
Join thousands of your closest friends for the annual Park Tavern Oysterfest. The party lasts all day with live music, cold beer and oysters. Whether you like them raw, steamed or fried, you’ll find the perfect bite. Tickets are $12. The event has sold out the previous three years, so early purchase is encouraged.
Love Stories of Oakland | Feb. 14
Is there anything more romantic than taking a stroll through a cemetery? How about the gorgeous and historic Oakland Cemetery? Valentine’s weekend, they will be giving hour-long tours guiding visitors through the love stories that are threaded throughout Atlanta’s history. All while enjoying a treat from No Bib Whoop! Bakery. Tour prices are $16.
Puppet Brunch at Venkman's | Feb. 27
Brunch isn’t complete without some puppets, right? Venkamn’s is hosting a puppet brunch with The Reluctant Dragon. The show, which is funded by a Jim Henson Family Grant, follows Princess Penelope as she befriends a dragon and protects him from a fearsome dragon hunter. Tickets are $3- $5 and serves as the brunch reservation.
AMA Monster Jam Supercross | Feb. 27
Inject some energy into your Saturday night with world championship motorcycle circuit. The best riders in the world will put on a show with flips and 17 races. Kids of all ages are welcome to enjoy the excitement. Tickets start at $10.
Steamhouse Lounge Oysterfest | Feb. 27-28
For the 28th year, Midtown’s Steamhouse Lounge will be shucking oysters for thousands of hungry Atlantans. Twenty dollars gets you access to live music for two days. Buckets of oysters and lobster bisque are also for sale to slurp down.
