February 4th, 2026
North East Welcomes February with Shops, Sips, and Seasonal Fun
After a January defined by snowstorms, icy roads, and more time indoors than most would prefer, North East is inviting residents and visitors alike to bundle up, step outside, and rediscover the town’s winter charm.
During a recent Cecil TV interview, longtime community volunteer Jennifer Goldbach outlined a full slate of February events designed to support local businesses, bring people together, and shake off the winter blues. From shopping promotions and restaurant specials to outdoor lights and live music, February is shaping up to be an active and welcoming month in town.
One of the highlights is Sweethearts on Main, a month-long promotion encouraging people to shop locally. Shoppers can collect stamps from participating Main Street businesses with each purchase. Once five stamps are collected, completed cards can be entered into a drawing for a gift basket filled with items donated by local merchants. The promotion runs throughout February, giving people plenty of time to stroll, shop, and support downtown stores during what can be a challenging season for small businesses.
Another popular return is Thirsty Thursdays, now underway and continuing through March 19. Each Thursday, participating restaurants and social spots offer a signature drink, complete with a blinking ice cube that guests get to keep. The event is designed to add a bit of fun to winter nights while encouraging patrons to gather with friends and support local eateries.
Music lovers can also look forward to the return of live entertainment, with Scott Wells and the band kicking off a First Friday performance at Woody’s. Later in the month, the North East Chamber of Commerce will host a February 19 mixer at Woody’s, open to both members and non-members, offering another chance to reconnect after a weather-heavy start to the year.
For Valentine’s season, Fair Winds has arranged carriage rides through town, already fully booked but with a waitlist available. Even for those without a reservation, the town plans to light two fire pits on the Green, creating a cozy gathering spot near local shops and restaurants. Waterfront lights at the community park add to the seasonal atmosphere, with free wagon rides scheduled to take visitors through the display.
Rounding out the month, tourism officials will host line dancing lessons at the park on February 20, inviting participants of all skill levels to join in and have some fun.
With Groundhog Day optimism in the air and spring on the horizon, Goldbach emphasized that February is a perfect time to get out, explore town, and show support for local businesses that weathered a difficult January. As she put it, there’s plenty happening in North East, and even more reason to come downtown and be part of it.
