Are you looking for something to shake up the last month of winter? While February may be the shortest month of the year, there’s definitely no shortage of things to do in Chicago this month. Here are a few of the highlight events happening around town.

Chicago Restaurant Week

When: January 24^th – February 9^th

Because Chicago boasts some of the best restaurants in the world, their restaurant week lasts for 17 glorious days of deliciousness at affordable pricing. This year there are over 400 establishments participating in Chicago Restaurant week, all offering prix-fixe menus for brunch and lunch (only $24) and dinner (ranging between $36 and $48). This is the perfect opportunity to explore the Chicago restaurant scene and sample menus from new establishments or revisit some of your favorites.

Argyle Street Lunar New Year and Chinatown Lunar New Year

When: February 1^st & 2^nd

Happy Chinese New Year! Celebrate the year of the rat starting February 1^st at the annual Argyle Street Parade and again on February 2^nd in Chinatown. Both of the festivities will include processions of floats, bands, and traditional lion dancers to welcome in the Lunar New Year. In addition, families can stop into the Latin School of Chicago, the Bazazian Branch of the Chicago Public Library, or Axis Lab to partake in other Chinese New Year activities and traditions.

The Chicago Auto Show

When: February 7^th – February 17^th

The annual Chicago Auto Show will be showcasing the latest developments in the automotive world at McCormick Place with their newest cars, trucks, sport utility vehicles and concept cars. Peruse the elaborate exhibitions of the newest models as well as the restored antiques.           Interactive exhibits are also available for you to get a feel for the latest models, both physically and virtually.

Chicago Botanic Garden Orchid Show

When: February 8^th – March 22^nd

Want to escape the cold of winter and get a taste of spring? Visit the Chicago Botanic Garden’s annual orchid show. With over 10,000 species on display, your winter blues are sure to go away. The orchid installations are created in a unique fashion, to include a tower of orchids, their canopy of color, an orchid chandelier and a floating carpet of orchids. There’s an orchid market open on Saturdays and Sundays in case you want to purchase one of your own, or pop in on a Thursday evening for a cocktail at Orchids After Hours.

Chicago Theatre Week

When: February 13^th – February 23^rd

Granted, Chicago offers a variety of world renowned theatre performances all year round, but Theatre Week is the theatrical event of the year. With over one hundred participating productions offering deeply discounted tickets at a variety of venues throughout the city, you’re surely in for a cultural whirlwind of fun. Performances are staged throughout the city, from the theatre district to the suburbs, with some of the most famous in the mix such as Goodman and Steppenwolf and Second City. Whether your interest is in comedy, drama, ballet, or children's productions, there is something for everyone.

The Naked at the Art Museum Scavenger Hunt

When: February 15^th

If you’re looking for a Valentine’s activity that combines culture, curiosity, and competition, join in on the Naked at the Art Museum Scavenger Hunt. Teams will work together in this quirky hunt to search out the museums best provocative pieces and basically art in the buff using the provided clues to answer the questions to solve the sexy puzzle. Admission to the hunt also includes full admission to the museum once the hunt has ended.

Chicago Volunteer Expo

When: February 23^rd

If you resolved to take more time to give back to your community, this expo can give you the jumpstart you need. Visit over 75 nonprofits to discover the volunteer opportunities available to you. The programs focus on issues such as social injustice, environmental issues, animal advocacy, care for the homeless, and much more. Onsite activities are also available such as a food drive, learning to construct sleeping mats for the homeless, or simply making cards for children in the hospital. This is a great way to give back and to inspire the young ones in our lives to do the same.

There are so many fun February events to attend. With so much to do, your winter blues will disappear and spring will be here before you know it.