A Year in New York: February in the City

Who is this for? 

Travelers planning a February trip to New York City.

Jump to Section:

• February in NYC
• Holiday Events
• Fairs and Festivals
• Things To Do
• Stay at Incentra Village House

February in NYC

Winter’s rest has fully settled over the city in February. The icy streets are at their emptiest, the crowds at their lowest, and the city is at its cheapest as tourists and locals alike opt to stay home. This gives New York a more intimate air than at any other time of year – a side of the city usually reserved for locals. Peaceful strolls through the snow at Central Park, candlelit dinners at some of the finest restaurants in the world, and stunning skyline views are just some of the things you can enjoy in New York this February. 

Weather

While February isn’t the coldest month of the year (that honor goes to January), it’s brisk. New York may feel like its own world, but it is still part of New England. This means you can expect New England weather patterns.

The average temperatures:

• Average High: 40 - 43°F
• Average Low: Around 27 - 29°F

What to expect: freezing nights, cold days, and overcast skies with a decent chance of snow. 

What to pack



Just like January, your goal in February is to keep warm. This means you’ll want to pack a few extra items than you would in warmer months. 

Some essentials include:

• Waterproof boots (preferably with thick tread)
• Warm jacket or coat
• Winter accessories: gloves, scarf, hat, or earmuffs
• Layer sweaters or thermals so you can remove your coat indoors

Bonus Items:

• Umbrella for unexpected snow and sleet
• Comfortable but stylish shoes for nights out
• Warm but stylish dress/slacks for fine dining
• Extra bag for adding or removing layers on the go
• 
  

Holiday Events

Manhattan is a melting pot of cultures, which means there’s always a holiday to celebrate. February is no exception. While everyone knows about Valentine’s Day, it doesn’t inspire the same level of pomp and circumstance as the two holidays we would like to highlight below.

Lunar New Year

The Lunar New Year often falls in February, and it’s a big deal. In many ways, the festivals are bigger than New Year’s Eve, especially in Manhattan’s Chinatown and parts of Brooklyn and Queens. Festivities include colorful parades with elaborate floats, traditional lion dances set to live music, firecrackers and flying confetti for good luck, and tons of incredible food. It’s one of the most vibrant and joyful times to explore these neighborhoods.

Black History Month

New York has played a major role in Black history and culture – and every February, the city honors that legacy through all kinds of special events. All month long, you can learn more about Black American History at The New York Public Library or The New Museum of New York. Or, celebrate Black contributions to art through special gallery exhibits and concerts. If you prefer to keep it casual with a walking tour of Harlem followed by dinner at a black-owned restaurant.

New York Fairs and Festivals

There’s always something happening in NYC, even during the off-season. The city is a cultural hub, in which art, fashion, music, and more all share a world stage. Whatever your interests, there is a fair, festival, or event for it in New York. Here are a few examples of what’s happening in February.

Fashion week

Fall Fashion Week may be more popular online, but February’s Fashion Week is still worth some hype. Many of the runway shows are for industry insiders only, but fashion enthusiasts can still attend pop-up events and fashion exhibits around the city. Visitors can also enjoy (and participate in) the unofficial fashion shows happening on the streets.

Orchid Show

Need a break from winter weather? Come check out one of New York Botanical Garden’s annual events: The Orchid Show. Every February, the garden becomes a tropical paradise, where thousands of orchids are artfully displayed. The event is a warm, colorful contrast to the white and gray landscape outside.

Amateur Night at the Apollo

While you are touring Harlem to soak up some Black history, make some time to check out one of New York’s most iconic traditions: Amateur Night at the Apollo Theater. This legendary showcase of emerging talent is entertaining, unpredictable, and deeply rooted in the city’s cultural history.

Things to do



You don’t have to participate in official festivals or events to enjoy the city. You can make your trip special without tickets or a detailed itinerary. If you need more ideas to make your trip romantic and memorable, we have you covered. 

Valentine’s Day Date Night

Planning a romantic getaway for Valentine’s Day? New York is an ideal city for lovers. There are so many ways you can enjoy a date night. You can go classic with dinner and a Broadway show. Or, you can make it more modern with drinks and stand-up comedy. Looking for something grand? Try rooftop dining above the city lights. Or for a cozier vibe, you can visit a wine bar tucked away in one of the city’s neighborhoods. 

However you prefer to celebrate your love, you can plan a great date in the city.

Keep it Cool

Embrace the winter wonderland while it lasts with some icy adventures. The Winter Village at Bryant Park isn’t just about holiday cheer; it also offers more unique winter activities like bumper cars on ice! You can also enjoy more traditional options like ice skating and sledding. Or, if you prefer something quieter, you can’t go wrong with a snowy stroll through Central Park. 

Warm Back Up

One of the best things about winter’s chill is warming back up. There are so many indoor activities to help you thaw out before you face the cold. New York is full of museums, galleries, and libraries where you can spend entire afternoons. Or, you can keep it short and sweet by stopping into one of the city’s cafes or shops for a more casual experience.

About the Author

Bozhidar Bachvarov (aka “Boz”) is the manager of Incentra Village Guest House in historic West Village. As a city local and a frequent traveler, Boz knows how to give guests an authentic New York experience.