One of the things I love most about living in Spokane is how the city brings people together — even in the heart of winter. While February may still be chilly, there’s no shortage of things to do, see, and experience. And, to top it off, many of these activities and events are affordable - many coming in under $15 or less! Whether you’re a longtime local or a visitor planning a short stay, Spokane’s February event calendar offers a little bit of everything; from film festivals to cultural celebrations. Let’s walk through some of my favorite annual happenings that make February in Spokane so special.
Spokane’s FREE Lunar New Year Celebration
One of the most joyful cultural celebrations in Spokane each February is the Lunar New Year event at the Spokane Convention Center. This vibrant festival features traditional festivities, lion dancers, performances, and family-friendly activities that honor the Lunar New Year traditions celebrated across many Asian cultures. It’s a free-admission event that’s perfect for families, visitors, and anyone who loves cultural immersion.
Why I love it: Even on a cold February day, this festival brings color and community spirit. Plus, it’s a beautiful way to learn and celebrate together.
Check the event details: Spokane’s United We Stand
Spokane Great Outdoors & Bike Expo
If you’re itching to get outside or dreaming about warmer weather adventures, the Spokane Great Outdoors & Bike Expo is one of the best places to start. Held annually at the Spokane Convention Center, this expo features outdoor gear, biking innovations, health and fitness exhibitors, and seminars that inspire active living — no matter the season. Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist or just want to learn more about outdoor gear and experiences, it’s worth a visit.
Why I love it: This event always gets me thinking about spring and summer plans, from bike routes to camping trips. Plus, there’s often great swag and exhibitor demos!
Find out more & plan your visit: Spokane Great Outdoors & Bike Expo
Related: 10 Best Hikes & Walks Close to Spokane, WA
Image courtesy of Inlander Restaurant Week
Inlander Restaurant Week
If there’s one foodie event I look forward to all year, it’s Inlander Restaurant Week — a ten-day celebration of Spokane’s vibrant dining scene that usually kicks off in late February and runs into early March. During this beloved annual tradition, more than 100 local restaurants offer fixed-price, three-course menus priced at $25, $35, or $45. It’s the perfect chance to try new spots, revisit favorites, or plan a date night without breaking the bank.
This event has become SO popular that reservations are often required for many of the restaurants. Make sure to mark your calendars for mid-February to check out Inlander.com to see their release of participating restaurants!
Why I love it: 100 local restaurants with fixed priced menus? What’s not to love?!
Discover participating restaurants and menus (when released): Inlander Restaurant Week
Spokane International Film Festival
Every year, the Spokane Film Festival, often called SpIFF, arrives during the first weekend of February and lights up theaters across town. This festival showcases an incredible range of films — from short stories to full-length documentaries — many of which spotlight filmmakers and talents from the Pacific Northwest and beyond. It’s a fantastic opportunity to dive into storytelling that challenges, inspires, and entertains. Whether you’re a serious cinephile or just curious to check out something new, SpIFF has something to offer.
Why I love it: It’s one of the few festivals of its type in the region that brings both world cinema and local filmmakers to the spotlight, making it a community celebration as much as an arts event.
Learn more: Spokane International Film Festival
Spokane Home & Yard Show
Just about every year, the Spokane Home & Garden Show returns around President’s Day weekend. It’s a great destination if you’re looking for fresh ideas for your home or garden. From landscaping inspiration to interior design products, booths packed with experts help you plan projects, meet local professionals, and gather ideas — whether you’re flipping homes or just beautifying your backyard.
Why I love it: I always walk away with at least two or three ideas I want to implement around the house.
Learn what’s coming: Spokane Home & Yard Show
Spokane Boat Show
Just when winter feels like it’ll never end, the Spokane Boat Show arrives to remind us that warm weather and water adventures are just around the corner. Hosted at the end of January into February at the Spokane Convention Center, this annual event brings together local dealers and outdoor enthusiasts for a weekend dedicated to boats, docks, pontoons, and everything you need for fun on lakes and rivers.
Why I love it: Even if you’re not in the market for a boat, some of these crafts are pieces of art. It’s fun just to go look and dream.
Learn more: Spokane Boat Show
Valentine’s Day Symphony at The Fox — Romance, Music & Magic
For many locals and visitors, Valentine’s Day in Spokane means a night at The Fox with the Spokane Symphony — an elegant and memorable way to celebrate love through music. Each year around February 14th, the Symphony presents a special concert at the historic Martin Woldson Theater at The Fox that blends classical masterpieces with contemporary flair. For example, the 2025 celebration featured Max Richter’s Vivaldi Recomposed alongside electronica elements in an unforgettable fusion performance.
Why I love it: The Fox’s stunning space is worth a visit any time of year. The architecture is exquisite and surrounded by the Spokane Symphony music, it creates a night of warmth, romance, and tradition.
Plan ahead for this one: Valentine’s Day with the Spokane Symphony
Photo courtesy of @riverfrontspokane
Ice Skating at Numerica Skate Ribbon
While it’s not tied to a formal festival, ice skating at the Numerica Skate Ribbon in Riverfront Park is a beloved Spokane winter tradition. This outdoor skating ribbon offers a classic winter experience with downtown views, chilled air, and plenty of hot cocoa stops nearby. Locals and visitors alike bundle up and glide across the ice — it’s accessible whether you’re a pro or a first-timer. And, ran by the City of Spokane Parks Department, single passes and unlimited passes come at reasonable prices.
Why I love it: It’s one of those quintessential Spokane winter experiences that feels like stepping into a snow globe — cozy, fun, and unforgettable. Perfect for fighting off the post-holiday blues.
More info: Numerica Skate Ribbon
Related: 10 best Date Night Ideas this Winter in Spokane, WA
Why February Is a Hidden Gem in Spokane
If you’re visiting Spokane in February, you might expect a quiet, slow winter month. What you’ll find instead is a dynamic blend of cultural celebrations, arts and entertainment, community expos, and outdoor fun — all wrapped in the gorgeous backdrop of our snowy Inland Northwest landscape.
If you want to learn more about how vibrant Spokane, WA can be any time of year, feel free to take a look at my listings here or reach out to me.
