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10 Special Days in February to Honor and Celebrate with your Family

Learn more about these Holidays, Celebrations and Observances With Your Kids

By Brenna Gutell February 3, 2024
february alphabet letters on wooden background
Image Credit: Getty Images via Canva

February, the shortest month of the year, is filled with an abundance of special occasions, and this year, we get an extra day with it being a leap year. Macaroni KID Conejo Valley - Malibu - Calabasas is excited to bring you a curated list of February holidays perfect for families to learn about, honor, and celebrate together. Whether you're in Thousand Oaks, Newbury Park, Westlake Village, Oak Park, Agoura Hills, Malibu, Calabasas, or anywhere in Southern California, we've got you covered.

Explore our handpicked selection of February's special days, and make the most of this unique month with your kids. Don't forget to check out the Macaroni KID Conejo Valley - Malibu - Calabasas event calendar for the latest family-friendly events in your area. We're here to help you find fun activities and create lasting memories with your loved ones."



Warren K. Leffler from Library of Congress CCO Images via Canva 

Rosa Parks Day / Birthday

February 4

Celebrate Rosa Parks Day on February 4, commemorating the birthday of "The Mother of the Modern Day Civil Rights Movement." Born in Tuskegee, Alabama, in 1913, Rosa Parks is remembered for her pivotal role in challenging racial segregation on public buses in Montgomery, Alabama. Arrested and convicted for civil disobedience after refusing to give up her seat to a white man, Parks' act became a catalyst for the Civil Rights Movement.

Decades before her famous bus incident, Parks had already dedicated a significant part of her 92-year life to advocating for Civil Rights, working to end segregation, ensure voting rights for all, and more. Her tireless efforts, along with the subsequent changes and legislation in the Civil Rights movement, continue to have a positive impact on everyone in the United States today.

On her birthday, we honor Rosa Parks, reflecting on her enduring legacy and recognizing the significant contributions she made throughout her lifelong commitment to the fight for justice. Learn more about Rosa Parks and other historical figures whose work advanced Civil Rights and impacted the history of our country.




WikiImages from pixabay via Canva

Ronald Reagan Day

February 6 

Celebrate Ronald Reagan Day, honoring the legacy of the 40th President of the United States, born in 1911. Before ascending to the presidency, Reagan spent eight impactful years as California's Governor. His journey to the nation's highest office wasn't without challenges; he faced two unsuccessful runs before securing victory in 1980, showcasing the perseverance that defined his career.

Reagan, a Midwesterner by birth, left an indelible mark in California. A college football player turned Hollywood actor, he spent nearly 30 years in the entertainment industry. Briefly interrupted by World War II, Reagan, unable to meet the vision requirement, contributed to the war effort by creating Air Force training films. Post-service, he returned to acting and later served as President of the Screen Actors Guild for five years.

Known for his love of jelly beans, Reagan's fondness for the sweet treat began during his gubernatorial years and continued into the presidency –  he even had a specially made jelly bean jar adorned with the Presidential seal. His favorite flavor? Licorice - mine too. See the links below to learn more.

Affectionately nicknamed "Dutch" in his childhood and later "The Gipper" after a film role, Reagan's deep love for the United States resonated throughout his life. Diagnosed with Alzheimer's Disease in his later years, he lived to the age of 93.

Fun Fact: Ronald Reagan had a ranch right here in Agoura, on Mulholland Highway from 1951 - 1966. He sold most of the land to 20th Century Fox and it's now part of Malibu Creek State Park. Explore more about all the places he lived below.

Venture to the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library and Museum in Simi Valley, Ventura County, to delve deeper into the legacy of this remarkable leader. Perfect for family outings, the museum offers educational experiences, special events, and exhibits, making it a valuable local resource.

Learn More:




amykerkemeyerphotos via Canva

National Boy Scouts Day 

February 8

The Boy Scouts of America - BSA was founded in 1910. The Boy Scouts are no longer just for boys, all of the BSA scouting programs are open to boys and girls starting from kindergarten on up - everyone is welcome to join. If your child is looking for fun, friendship, adventure and outdoor fun see the links below to learn more.

I was a Girl Scout for many years, later when I was in High School I joined the Police "Explorers" for a bit. Since I have great memories of my time in scouting I was super excited when my son told me he wanted to join Cub Scouts - he loved it. Now he's advanced on to BSA - for boys and girls 6th-12th grade, he's been on several camping and backpacking trips - it's really been great for him. In our experience Cub Scouts was more family lead, and BSA is more scout lead and parents that are not leaders take a step back, it's great for their independence. 

Read more: Join Cub Scout Pack 3789: It's for Boys and Girl in grades K - 5 who like Fun, Adventure and the Outdoors! Each Pack / Troop is a little different depending on the kids and the parents. There are lots of local Troops / Packs so you can find the right one for your kids. 

  • Scout Oath:  On my honor I will do my best to do my duty to G-d and my country and to obey the Scout Law; to help other people at all times; to keep myself physically strong, mentally awake, and morally straight.
  • Scout Law:  A Scout is trustworthy, loyal, helpful, friendly, courteous, kind, obedient, cheerful, thrifty, brave, clean, and reverent.

Scouting Programs:

  • Cub Scouts:  for boys and girls in grades kindergarten through fifth grade.  With younger kids there tends to be more parent / caregiver involvement, with many activities and adventures open to the whole family. 
  • Scouts BSA: for youths 11 - 17 years old, typically Middle and High School aged kids, since the kids are older they take a more active roll in the troop, but they are always happy when parents lend a hand or take on leadership roles. This is the traditional Scouting experience, service, community engagement and leadership development become increasingly important parts of the program as youth lead their own activities and work their way toward earning Scouting’s highest rank, Eagle Scout.
  • Venturing:  for youths 14 - 20 years old, this is a youth-led and youth-inspired program. Your kids will acquire life skills and gain experiences that will prove to be valuable regardless of where their future is headed, all while having a blast: leadership, event-planning, organization, communication, responsibility — the list goes on!
  • Sea Scouts:  for youths 14 - 20 years old, for over 100 years this program has promoted better citizenship and improved members’ boating skills through instruction and practice in water safety, boating skills, outdoor, social, service experiences, and knowledge of our maritime heritage
  • Exploring:  for youths 14 - 20 years old, this program gives young people a chance to investigate careers and create connections starting from a young age. It allows them to sample different professions or dig into the vocation they feel called to. Through mentorship and firsthand experiences, Scouts will develop lifelong skills and knowledge. Some programs offered are Police, Sheriff and healthcare. 

More Information:


Sarah Pennell via Canva

Lunar New Year

February 10

As the Rabbit hops away, making room for the Dragon, we usher in the Year of the Wood Dragon in the Lunar New Year celebration. This festive occasion is observed across Asia, including China, Korea, Vietnam, Tibet, and Mongolia, each with its own unique customs and traditions. Festivities commence with the second new moon after the winter solstice, usually falling between January 21st and February 20th.

More about Lunar New Year:

Stay tuned for more info coming soon

Lunar New Year events



Getty Images Signature via Canva

International Day of Women & Girls in Science

February 11

The International Day of Women & Girls in Science was established in 2015 by the United Nations in its efforts to ensure full and equal access to and participation in science for women and girls.

STEM ideas to try at home:

Books:

Movies:

  • Hidden Figures, rated PG: The story of a team of female African-American mathematicians who served a vital role in NASA during the early years of the U.S. space program.
  • Wonder Park, rated G:  Wonder Park tells the story of an amusement park where the imagination of a wildly creative girl named June comes alive.

Learn more:



Getty Images via Canva

Abraham Lincoln's Birthday

February 12

The 16th President of the United States of America, is remembered for many things, his Gettysburg Address, ending the Civil War and putting an end to slavery with the Emancipation Proclamation in 1863 are just a few. He was President for five years before he was assassinated at Ford's Theatre. He is the tallest President to date, he was known for his tall stovepipe hat which made him seem even taller and he lived in a log cabin in his youth. Some of the nicknames attributed to him; Honest Abe, the Rail-Splitter, and the Great Emancipator. I'm sure your recognize him from both the $5 bill and the copper penny, he's also one of four men whose images are carved into Mount Rushmore.

Despite what may think, there is no current federal holiday for Lincoln's Birthday, although they have tried. What many know as Presidents' Day is not a National holiday, although it is a holiday in many states and for some it's meant to recognize both Washington & Lincoln and for others' it's meant to celebrate all past presidents. Lincoln's Birthday used to be a State Holiday in California, but not anymore - schools are open but courts are closed.

Learn more:



Acharaporn Kamornboonyarush from Pexels via Canva

Valentine's Day

February 14

As a kid this one on of my favorite holidays from going to the store to get a box of Valentines to passing them out at school and of course I was thrilled if any had a goodie like candy or a toy. Times have changed I remember my son's first kindergarten V-day, he brought home toys, candy, snack bags and even a cupcake.  I have to admit it was a bit out of hand and a few years later the school helped dial it back by encouraging non-food treats and prizes. My other favorite part was the Valentine that came in the mail from my Grandmother, although she lived nearby and we saw her regularly, she always sent cards in the mail. As a kid it was so exciting not only to get mail, but the V-day cards were always special, I think I even saved some. They always had an activity or something to punch out and play with plus she always included money from a couple of dollars when I was younger to a $5 bill later. 


heartfelt words and a thoughtful, simple gesture like planning an evening together — even if it's at home for those of us who are exhausted parents — can mean the most.


You can plan something special with your kids, but it's also an opportunity for some grown-up time and if you can't leave the house because February 14 is a weekday, take a look here for some creative ideas; A Romantic Night In: Valentine's Day at Home.

Valentine Crafts, Recipes and more:


Presidents' Day

3rd Monday in February

Are you confused, are you wondering what happened to Presidents' Day? Me too, so I did some digging. There is a lot of conflicting information, but I found while many call this holiday "Presidents' Day" and the three day weekend that comes along with it, it's not actually a National Holiday. Somewhere along the line retailers and marketers started the Presidents' Day specials and big sales every year and it was so successful it just stuck. 

There have been several unsuccessful attempts to officially change the National Holiday to "Presidents' Day," one back in 1951 wanted to celebrate all of our presidents, then again later and attempt to have a Presidents' Day to honor both Lincoln and Washington. The National holiday stands today as Washington's Birthday, but many states including California instead observe "Presidents' Day. Either way both Washington's Birthday and Presidents' Day are both observed on the third Monday in February.  

Learn more here:



photohoo from Getty Images Signature via Canva

George Washington's Birthday

February 22

George Washington, born in 1732 was many things including a Revolutionary War Hero who later became the first President of the United States of America in 1789. Your kids probably know him as that guy on the quarter, the dollar bill and Mount Rushmore. Learn more about the Father of our Country here and here.

Ask your kids what they know about George Washington? Research together to find new facts about our nation's 1st President. 

Now about the holiday, way back in 1879 the United States wanted honor and celebrate our first President and made George Washington's Birthday, February 22 a Federal holiday. Many years later in 1968, Congress passed the “Uniform Monday Holiday Act” moving many holidays, including this one to Monday in order to give workers more three day weekends, it's now observed the third Monday in February each year. Other than last year, the last time this Monday holiday landed on George Washington's actual birthday was in 1971.  Another fun fact is that his birthday was sort of changed to February 22, watch the video below to learn more.




JBryson | Canva

Leap Day

February 29

Hip hip hooray! It's Leap Day. When it only comes around once every four years, you've gotta celebrate. Party old school with a game of leapfrog. Or hop out to a local indoor play place for some leaping around. Don't forget to check our partner site CertifiKID for some epic deals on indoor fun.



 The Everett Collection via Canva

Black History Month

February 1 - 29

Each February we have an opportunity to celebrate and learn more about the history, contributions, influence and the culture black people have had on our country. Harriet Tubman, Frederick Douglass, Booker T. Washington and Martin Luther King Jr. are just a small few of the many influential African Americans for our kids — and us! — to learn about and celebrate all month long after all Black History is American History.

Interesting Black History: California, Los Angeles and Ventura County

Local Museums to explore Black History:

Many other Local Museums have ongoing or special exhibits featuring Black History, especially during the month of February.

Please note - If you are unable to visit know that the website are great resources with interesting and helpful information, use the links above to learn more. 

Black History books for kids:

Watch Movies about Black history:

Learn more about Black history:


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    Macaroni KID Conejo Valley - Malibu - Calabasas. Photos of publisher, Brenna and her family many at Disneyland

    Brenna G.

    Macaroni KID Conejo Valley - Malibu - Calabasas, is a local resource for family fun things to do. Subscribe for free updates, share events, and learn about advertising. Email: brennag@macaronikid.com

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