The Best Events Happening in February

New Hampshire Sanctioned and Jackson Invitational Snow Sculpting Competition, Gorham, January 31- February 2

Hosted by the Jackson Area Chamber of Commerce and held at the Great Glen Trails/ Mt. Washington Auto Road, this event is one you won’t want to miss. Watch as teams sculpt throughout the weekend turn snow into incredible works of frozen art. With scavenger hunts and activities for kids, and plenty of outdoor activities (like cross country skiing, snowshoeing and tubing), this is the weekend to celebrate all things snow!
Great Glen Trails, 1 Mt. Washington Rd., Gorham, jacksonnh.com

Mount Washington Valley Ice Fest, North Conway, January 31- February 2

Going on its 31st year, the Valley Ice Fest is dedicated to the love of climbing. Ever since it started in 1993, it’s been bringing together climbers of all abilities to share in the reverence of the rock — or, in this case, the ice. Avid rock and ice climbers, and those just starting out in the sport, come together to collaborate, learn from one another, share skill sets and forge friendships. This year’s event features clinics that range from “Ice Climbing 101”, and progress to more nuanced courses such as a two-day learning to lead clinic, an alpine-style climb and much more. There will also be an opportunity to register for a guided one day ascent of Mount Washington. All clinics (unless otherwise noted) meet at 8 a.m. at Ledge Brewing Company. mwv-icefest.com

10th Annual Beveridge Ice Fest, Lake Winnipesaukee, February 1

Get your long johns, furry hats and winter gear ready because Ice Fest is back for its 10th year. Beveridge Ice Fest brings together 35 of the Granite State’s finest craft breweries to pour a selection of tasty brews on the ice of Lake Winnipesaukee. Tickets into the fest includes unlimited beer samples. beerfests.com

22^nd Annual Keene Ice and Snow Festival, Keene, February 1

Bring family and friends to watch ice blocks being carved come to live. An entirely free day of fun. The beloved festival will host 12 ice carvers alongside many events and activities including; train ride, roasting s’mores, sugar on snow, “find the yeti” scavenger hunt, hot cocoa stations, cartoons and more.
10 a.m.- 4 p.m., Free, Downtown Keene, explorekeene.org

Queen City Black Market, Manchester, February 1
The first of its kind in Manchester, the Queen City Black Market will pay homage to the alternative, punk, goth, DIY-scene in New Hampshire & New England. Teaming up with New England Obscura and Sad Life All Ways, the market will attract hundreds of people interested in oddities, alternative music, and other people/companies that have the same interests. Facebook

Dartmouth Winter Carnival, Hanover, February 6-9

Dating back to 1911, this annual fête celebrates Dartmouth’s impressive winter sports history and the beauty of the Upper Valley in the snow. Organizations around campus host events during the carnival, so make the rounds to enjoy an ice-sculpting contest, ski races, a concert and quirky traditions like a human dogsled race on the green. This year’s theme is “Jurassic Parks: The Carnival Before Time.” home.dartmouth.edu

14^th Annual Black Pond Ice Hockey Championships, Concord, February 7- February 9

3 days, 8 rinks, 8 divisions- all hockey. The 1883 Black Ice Pond Hockey Championship and Festival has become one of the largest outdoor winter events in New Hampshire. The event hosts 95 teams and close to 700 hockey players that participate in the Black Ice, along with activities, bonfires, a rock wall, live entertainment, food trucks and more. The event will also include youth hockey teams from New Hampshire playing in the Shinny Classic. The Black Ice’s mission is to maintain and expand ice skating and recreational opportunities while preserving hockey history and creating new interest for the game we love.
White Park, 1 White St., Concord. blackicepondhockey.com

Super Sunday 4 Miler, Bedford, February 9

You might be an icicle by the end of this event — but the spoils are worth it. This race makes its way through Bedford, and starts and ends at the Bedford Little League Complex. When you cross the finish line, enjoy a refreshing beer and thaw yourself out in the warming area. milleniumrunning.com

Wild Winter Walks, Holderness, February 9 and 15

Have you ever wondered what happens to the animals at the Science Center during the winter? Most of them stay in the same place, just as they would in the wild. Join a naturalist for a guided walk on the live animal exhibit trail to see our animal ambassadors dressed in their winter coats and discuss how these native animals are well-adapted for winter in New Hampshire. If needed, snowshoes are available at no extra cost, or bring your own. An adult must accompany children. This program is all outdoors; dress in warm layers with insulated snow boots, hats, and gloves. Pre-registration is required for all programs at nhnaturerd.tamretail.net