It’s February in the South

The shortest month of the year can seem like the longest at times.

At least in the South, there’s enough going one to keep you busy.

So, it’s February in the South, why not…

• celebrate Mardi Gras. Join in the revelry along the Gulf Coast. From Galveston, Texas to Pensacola, Fla., the fun is all ready under way, with Fat Tuesday on February 16.
• explore museums. When was the last time you visited a museum? If it took you longer than a couple of seconds to respond, it’s been too long. The Virginia Historical Society is offering free admission all year. This Sunday (February 7), it’s Super Museum Sunday in Savannah, Ga. This weekend is also Museums on Us, presented by Bank of America. Simply present your ID and Bank of America card at any of the participating museums for free admission. Make time to visit the newly opened International Civil Rights Center & Museum (map) in Greensboro, N.C. The museum itself is located in the historic 1929 Woolworth building, which was the side of the 1960 sit-in. It houses the original lunch counter and stool, as well as other exhibits.
• reconnect with the arts. From the 2010 Orlando ArtsFest (February 5-14) to ArtiGras Fine Arts Festival (February 13-15) in Jupiter, Fla., those are just two of the arts event in the South. The region is filled with ways for you to (re)discover the arts. The difficult part is choosing which art-related event to attend.
• don’t forget about Valentine’s Day. Whisk your loved one away to a romantic destination or take advantage of any one of the deals/packages specifically made for Valentine’s Day weekend.
• hit the road. Even though it’s February,  it doesn’t mean you can’t take a road trip or two. Grab your keys and head to Knoxville, Tenn., Oxford, Miss., Aiken, S.C., Kissimmee, Fla., or Montgomery, Ala. Tour Alabama’s Black Black or Georgia’s/Florida’s Magnolia Highway. Just go and get out. The South is waiting for you.

February doesn’t have to be the longest short month. With some planning and a little sense of adventure, February can be a great month to explore the South.

photo credit: _____ puzzled hearts ______ water refractions, flickr, creative commons by Linh_rOm