February is almost here, love is in the air and there’s so much to love about the Crystal Coast this time of year.Here are just a few reasons to love the Crystal Coast in February.
Love on the beach
NC Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores
Every Monday from 9 to 10:30 a.m.
Take a hike with aquarium naturalists as they guide you through this important ecosystem to discover incredible shells, plant and animal life, and other organisms that you may find at the beach. Ages 5 and up. Children 17 and under must be accompanied by a paying adult.
Who doesn’t love chocolate?
Feb. 4, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. & Feb. 5, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. • Crystal Coast Civic Center, 3505 Arendell St., Morehead City
A favorite celebration for more than 15 years, the annual Carolina Chocolate Festival is a decadent celebration (and charity fundraising event) for anyone who wants to indulge a sweet tooth.
The event is full of activities from tastings to spa trips, showing just how sweet it is to be on the Crystal Coast.
Fun loving, good time
Feb. 11, 2 to 6 p.m. • Middle Lane, Beaufort, NC
No need to travel to New Orleans for a taste of Mardi Gras – a celebration is waiting in the heart of downtown of Beaufort.
Perhaps the shortest parade in North Carolina, Mardi Gras on Middle Lane is unique display of Beaufort’s quirkiness. You don’t want to miss the parade of festive participants in costume tossing jewelry and charms.
The event pays homage to the grand annual party with an array of ways to have fun for visitors of all ages, including activities for the kids, live Cajun music, jazz and more.
Love to stay fit
First Annual Down East Duck Run
Feb. 11, 9 a.m. to noon • 755 Seashore Dr, Atlantic, NC
The first annual Down East Duck Run 5K Race will include something for everyone, from experienced races to first-time 5K walkers. There will be food and entertainment for an overall family event.
The race will raise money for Another Perspective to support community-level projects that are inclusive, needed, and promote recreation in the outdoors, as well as develop conservation approaches that are unique and effective.
Register here.
Love a good flick?
Beaufort Picture Show is featuring three films this month!
Beaufort Picture Show is a non-profit organization featuring a wide range of notable films that enrich lives, engage minds, and build community.
This month’s showings will be at the Mill Space, 1354 Lennoxville Road in Beaufort, NC. Here’s the lineup:
Feb. 4, 7 p.m.: Stay Prayed Up
Feb. 11, 7 p.m.: Tan & Sober Gentlemen
Feb. 25, 7 p.m.: The Road to Black Power
Artworks of Love
Feb. 11-24, 12- 6 p.m.
Feb. 25, 12-5 p.m.
Parkway Shopping Center, 4912 Arendell Street, Morehead City, NC
The Arts Council of Carteret County will sponsor its annual Art from the Heart show, featuring two- and three-dimensional works of talented artists from rom Carteret, Craven, Onslow, and Pamlico counties.
The annual event is held in conjunction with the Student Art Show for all of Carteret County schools, private schools, and home-schooled children in grades K-12.
This year’s works of art will be judged by Tony Alderman, and most are available for purchase.
Even during winter at the beach, there’s plenty to do in the off-season, which makes this area a perfect place to live year-round.
If you are looking to buy a home, or perhaps a second home, the agents of Al Williams Properties are eager to help you find the perfect property.