From the hundreds of things to do on the US Gulf Coast in February 2026 I narrowed my suggestions down to the following eight festivals and events. Cool, happy, and fun events that you expect to find on the Gulf Coast.
The following Gulf Coast February events include fun, festive, art, and history themes. The NFL Super Bowl is a huge annual event but, alas, the Saints and Bucs are already out and not in the playoffs. But the Texans are still in it (as of January 13, 2026).
Mardi Gras this year is February 17, 2026 and I will be celebrating the entire month of February—as most of y’all will also (right?).
Black History month is the entire month. February holidays include Groundhog Day, Valentines Day, and Presidents Day. Looking for a sweet place to take your honey?—see my favorite Gulf Coast Sunset Spots and romantic US hotels.
Enjoy Fun Things To Do on US Gulf Coast in February.
Mobile Mardi Gras, Mobile AL, January 30 – February 17, 2026
In 2026, celebrate America’s Original Carnival Celebration in Mobile Alabama. “Born to Celebrate” is the theme in the place where Mardi Gras was first celebrated on our continent (in 1703).
From Conde Explorers Parade on January 30 through Order of Myths Parade on Mardi Gras night (February 17), enjoy nearly 50 parades and countless Mardi Gras celebrations around town. Celebrate the last three days of Mardi Gras with Joe Cain Day (Sunday), Lundi Gras, and Mardi Gras.
McCool Travel note: At least one historical reference indicates that Bienville first celebrated Mardi Gras in 1699 in or near Biloxi or Ocean Springs, Mississippi.
Visit the celebration website for information. Also see my favorite Things to Do in Mobile Alabama.
Winter Outdoor Wildlife Expo, South Padre TX, February 5 – 7, 2026
Join coastal nature and wildlife experts and fans at the 30th annual Winter Outdoor Wildlife Expo (WOWE). The Expo features presentations, workshops, nature field trips, raptor shows, exhibits, vendors, and more.
The 2026 WOWE keynote speaker has not yet been announced. The 2024 WOWE keynote speaker was Scott Harris who discussed his 100,000 mile Raptor Quest to experience sightings of all 53 North American raptors.
WOWE is hosted by SPI Birding Nature Center and Alligator Sanctuary.
Visit the expo website for information. Also see my favorite Things to Do in South Padre Island.
ArtFest Fort Myers, Fort Myers FL, February 6 – 8, 2026
Enjoy exceptional art from over 200 artists, in addition to delicious food, live entertainment, and fun children’s activities at the 26th annual ArtFest Fort Myers. Only one of every five artists who apply is accepted so know the quality at ArtFest Fort Myers is superb.
ArtFest overlooks the beautiful Downtown Fort Myers riverfront and yacht basin and is an annual highlight for Southwest Florida residents and visitors.
Register in advance for the Publix Run to the Arts 5K on Sunday, February 8, 2026, featuring the most artsy 5K shirt you will ever see (especially if you love flamingos).
Visit the event website for information. Also see my favorite Things to Do in Fort Myers Beach.
Yachty Gras, League City TX, February 7, 2026
Join the world’s largest Mardi Gras boat parade at the 27th annual Yachty Gras. The Yachty Gras parade starts at 7pm in Clear Lake, proceeds under the Kemeh Boardwalk, then turns around in Galveston Bay and returns to Clear Lake.
To watch the parade, find a spot on the Kemeh Boardwalk and get ready to catch some beads, Mistah.
Visit the event website for information. Also see my favorite League City Texas things to do.
27th Annual Gulf Coast Winter Classics Horse Show, Gulfport MS, February 12 – March 22, 2026
Harrison County Fairgrounds and Equestrian Center in Gulfport, Mississippi hosts the annual Gulf Coast Winter Classics Horse Show. The multi-week competition features thousands of competitors in every horse and riding skill level.
From Lead Line to Grand Prix competition, from seasoned veteran horse and rider team to a first time horse show experience, watch the contests for prize money, awards and critical point gathering opportunities.
Visit the event website for information. Also see my favorite Coastal Mississippi Hidden Gems.
28th Annual Thunder By the Bay, Sarasota FL, February 13 – 15, 2026
This iconic three-day Thunder By the Bay Music and Motorcycle Festival features continuous live music. 2026 scheduled headline acts include 38 Special, Night Ranger, and Montgomery Gentry featuring Eddie Montgomery.
The family-friendly festival includes over 100 vendors, a 17 class bike show, freestyle motorcycle shows, a charity motorcycle ride, fantastic food, on-site camping, and much more.
Over the past 27 years, the Festival has raised over $3 Million for Suncoast Charities for Children. The charity provides funding support to several local non-profits serving over 8,000 children, teens, and adults with special needs.
Visit the festival website for information. Also see my favorite Things to Do in Sarasota.
Presidential Families Weekend, Key West FL, February 14, 2026
Are you related to one or more of the US Presidents? Or wonder if you are?
Join the largest gathering of Presidential descendants over Presidents Day weekend in Key West. The Presidential Families Weekend takes place at the Truman White House in gorgeous Key West Florida.
And on the drive to and from Key West, see my favorite Florida Keys spots.
Visit the event website for information. Also see my favorite Key West Tips.
Pensacon, Pensacola FL, February 20 -22, 2026
Since 2013, Pensacon in Pensacola has been the Gulf Coast’s premiere pop culture and comic book convention. See Pam Grier, Jack Osbourne, Sara Gilbert, WWE’s Lita, and dozens of other actors, writers, and artists.
Celebrate the worlds of science fiction, fantasy, horror, cosplay, animation, video games, books, and more with thousands of fans and dozens of celebrities. Which costume will you wear? Or want to see at Pensacon?
Visit the event website for information. Also see my favorite Secret Spots on Florida Panhandle.
Please let me know of other happy, fun, and cool things to do on US Gulf Coast in February. Or any month!
See also January Gulf Coast events and March Gulf Coast events.