Metro Detroit Events and Things to Do in February, 2012

When: Throughout the Winter
Where: Throughout the Metro-Detroit area and beyond
Weather: Average Temperatures and Snow in February

Michigan winters give us plenty of opportunity for ice skids and snow shoveling, but they also give us a unique set of outdoor sports, including downhill skiing and cross-country skiing.

When: 1/27/12 through 2/4/12
Where: Ferndale

The Ferndale Blues Festival is in its 11th year of raising money for local charities. The festival is actually a series of 60 live concerts that take place at venues within bars and restaurants along Woodward Avenue and Nine Mile Road. Luther "Badman" Keith, Sweet Claudette, and Bocco are just a few of the artists scheduled to perform over the nine-day period.

When: 2/10/12 through 2/12/12
Where: In and around Campus Martius Park, Downtown Detroit

The Motown Winter Blast! is in its seventh year, and in 2012, it's all about "Breaking the Ice" on poverty. Admission is a can of food, a book or a dollar to benefit Matrix Human Services. The Blast! features over 40 live musical acts scheduled to perform on two stages. There will also be ice-skating demonstrations, dogsleds, snow shoeing, marshmallow roasting, and, of course, a Taste of Detroit tent.

When: 2/11/12 through 2/12/12
Where: The Detroit Zoo, Royal Oak

At any given time, The Detroit Zoo hosts special zoo events that showcase zoo animals and offer special activities for children. In the winter months, the zoo hosts Wild Winter Weekends. The theme in February is Wild Winter African Adventure, which includes an African drum lesson, story telling, arts and crafts, and live entertainment.

When: Tuesday, 2/14/12
Where: All across the Metro-Detroit area

Detroit is a great place to celebrate romance. The metro area has a lot to offer when creating a special day and the Guide to Valentine's Day in Detroit will help get you started with a list of romantic restaurants, sweet treats, Valentine's Day events and gift ideas for him or her.

When: 2/21/12
Where: Hamtramck

Whether Catholic or not, Detroiters know a good holiday when they taste it and head to Hamtramck to celebrate all things Paczki in the days leading up to Paczki Day (aka Fat Tuesday).

When: 2/24/12 through 2/26/12
Where: Detroit Marriott, Renaissance Center

In its 17th year, the Motor City Tattoo Expo has over 200 artists, tattoo contests and live entertainment.

When: 2/29/12 through 3/3/12
Where: Hamtramck

In its 15th year, the Metro Times Blowout showcases 100s of bands over four nights at several bars/clubs throughout Hamtramck, including Paycheck's, New Dodge, Kelly's Bar and Belmont Bar.

When: Now through March, 2012
Where: Woodward Avenue, Downtown Detroit

The Park at Campus Martius was designed to be the central square of the city. During the winter months, the park offers a venue for ice skating, and the nearby cafe offers hot chocolate to keep Detroiters warm and toasty.

When: Throughout the next couple of months
Where: Detroit-area theaters

At any given time, Detroit hosts a variety of shows and concerts, including music concerts, Broadway plays, comedians, rodeos and circuses.

When: Throughout the year
Where: Detroit Institute of Arts, downtown Detroit

Arts Alive!: After six and one-half years of renovations, the New Detroit Institute of Arts (DIA) opened its doors in 2007 to show off its new design and galleries. The DIA is always brimming with events, including films, exhibits and music.