By Chloe Newkirk
Things to Do in San Francisco in February
in February is about much more than just Valentine's Day. The city has much to offer in the way of cultural festivals and community events this time of year. February days can be rainy and somewhat chilly in San Francisco, so be prepared with layers and rain gear. If you are out to impress a sweetheart, the city by the bay offers dozens of world-class restaurants and nightspots set against a
romantic view of the Pacific Ocean.
San Francisco Culture
San Francisco is home to the largest Chinatown in North America. So on the Lunar New Year, the city throws an extravagant Chinese New Year Parade. The streets of San Francisco become home to fire-breathing dragons and colorful parades of Asian art and history. Although exact dates vary, on average the Chinese New Year falls in February.
It's been said many times that one can leave one's heart in San Francisco. Building on this cultural touchstone, the city commissioned artists to design several stone hearts throughout the city. Each heart is displayed and then sold to raise money for the San Francisco General Hospital Foundation. While love is in the air in February, take a tour of the city by tracking down these painted hearts. They can be found in popular San Francisco landmarks such as Union Square, Yerba Buena Gardens, and along the Embarcadero.
Music and the Arts
San Francisco hosts the Noise Pop Festival every February. This convergence of new and established bands brings top talent to venues across the city. In addition to concerts, the festival has grown to include events such as art shows, film screenings and, of course, parties. Some shows are more popular than others, and tickets should be purchased in advance.
Comic book fans gather in San Francisco toward the end of February for WonderCon. Thousands of attendees enjoy the chance to meet comic book artists, attend book signings and hear lectures from makers of comics and movies. The event is typically held at the Moscone Center, and tickets can be purchased in advance.
Local Color
San Francisco loves to be spontaneous, even when the event is an annual one. The Pillow Fight in Justin Herman Plaza has become a February tradition. Participants congregate at an arranged time armed with one pillow and a promise of no foul play. When the clock strikes, the melee begins, with total strangers engaging in a massive flash mob of feathers, pillows and controlled chaos.
Resources
About the Author:
Chloe Newkirk is a writer based in the San Francisco Bay Area. She has been a freelance writer for over five years, and written for a variety of publications. She is a graduate of St. Edward's University in Austin, Texas. Her areas of expertise include crafts, pop culture, the arts, pets, American history and food.
Photo Credits:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/blmurch/1014859474/
