Cold, snowy February may seem like the one month you’d prefer less of, not more. But this year it comes with an extra day. 2016 is a leap year, which means it’s the year made for ladies proposing to gents, according to Irish tradition. And for newborn “leaplings,” who beat the 1,471-to-one odds of being born on Feb. 29. And for everyone in Stepping Stone who could use an extra day to fulfill that January resolution to have more fun. Enjoy these February activity ideas.
Celtic Nights: Spirit of Freedom-February 5 and 6, 7:30pm
Be swept away by the sheer beauty of this international troupe’s song and dance—and fascinating insight into Irish history. Celtic Nights, made up of vocalists, dancers, and fine Celtic musicians, performs “Spirit of Freedom,” the story of Irish independence, beginning 100 years ago with the Easter Rising, a historical event akin to America’s Fourth of July. Through music, song, dance, and storytelling, Celtic Nights honors the struggle of people fighting to gain freedom, independence, and true democracy. At the PACE Center in Parker. Tickets $40-45. Learn more.
Mardi Gras in Snowmass-Feb. 9
Can’t squeeze in a trip to New Orleans this month? That’s okay—Snowmass has been throwing the biggest Mardi Gras bash in the mountains for 34 years. With face painting and performers at 2pm, bead tossing at 3pm, a madcap parade at 4pm, and fireworks at 7:30pm, you may feel as if you’re in the Crescent City itself. Except for all the epic skiing and snowboarding that you’ll be able to fit in, too. This authentic fête offers Cajun-inspired fun for every age. Learn more.
Wonderbound: “Rock Ballets” with Chimney Choir & Ian Cooke Band-Feb. 13 and 14
Here’s something wholly original, entertaining, and timely, given last month’s passing of rock legend David Bowie. Set to the music of Bowie and Queen, these celebrated ballets are choreographed and performed by Wonderbound, a dance company that “lives at the convergence of tradition and innovation, vulnerability and courage.” Music will be performed live by Chimney Choir and Ian Cooke Band. At the PACE Center in Parker. Tickets $35-40. Learn more.
Ragged Union & The Way Down Wanderers-Feb. 20, 7pm
This doubleheader is sure to get your toes tapping. Ragged Union is hard-driving bluegrass, with a tinge of the traditional and a healthy dose of the blues. Award-winning instrumental work, a powerful rhythmic drive, and up tempo arrangements pair with edgy, outsider songwriting. The Way Down Wanderers are a fast-paced and soulful, five-piece modern-folk Americana act that draw in listeners with energy, originality, and soulful generosity. Held at the Parker Schoolhouse Theater. Tickets $16-18. Learn more.
(Photo courtesy of The Way Down Wanderers Facebook page)
Leap Day!- February 29
What will you do with this extra day? It’s a Monday, but don’t let that stop you from adding in a little something special for you (Dinner out? Calming yoga class or massage?) or the family. Check out these ideas for 29 fun things to do on Leap Day.
For example, have your kids write letters to themselves they’ll open on Leap Day in four years. Try your hand at frog origami. Or tackle a household project that you only want to do every four years—say, organizing the basement.
