The first month of the new year is soon behind us, so it’s time to look ahead to the fun activities and events offered over the first weekend of February. Whether you’re looking for something for the entire family to enjoy, or a date night with that special someone, there’s always something to do in and around NoVA.
Collectible Cards Show
February 1, 9 a.m.–3 p.m.
Sports fanatics and treasure hunters are encouraged to attend this sports card and collectible display show. Dealers from all over Northern Virginia and DC area will be in attendance with vintage sports memorabilia and rare collectors’ items. Comfort Inn University Center: 11180 Fairfax Blvd., Fairfax, free
Comedy Show
February 1, 11:30 p.m.; February 2, 8 p.m.
Bust a gut with rapid-fire comedy at Hotbed on 18th Street, Underground Comedy’s new comedy club. Seating is available 20 minutes before showtime, and the upstairs bar opens at 7 p.m. Double up on the laughs with another show the following evening at Wonderland Ballroom. Hotbed: 2477 18th St. NW, Washington, DC; Wonderland Ballroom: 1101 Kenyon St. NW, Washington, DC, free
Dog Man Watch Party
February 1, 11:30 a.m.–2 p.m.
Grab some food and be the first to witness the new Dog Man movie, based on the popular children’s book by Dave Pilkey. The event includes free Dog Man merchandise and the chance to meet and snag a picture with the half-man, half-dog on his motion-picture debut. Alamo Drafthouse Cinema DC: 1660 Crystal Dr., Arlington, $25
Wine Blending Class
February 1, 1–3 p.m.
Learn the fundamentals of wine blending, followed by a tasting of three different wines to better understand your particular preference. You’ll take home your own one-of-a-kind blend along with a complimentary wine glass. Woodlawn Press Winery: 8733-B Cooper Rd., Alexandria, $45
Mini Masterclass
February 1, 6:30–7:30 p.m.
Learn to create beautiful buttercream roses in only an hour in this masterclass. Gain specific skills and techniques from a professional cake and cookie decorator, then take your flowers home to impress your loved ones. Fran’s Cake and Candy Supplies: 10927 Main St., Fairfax, $45
Live Magic
February 1, 6:30–9:30 p.m.
Experience the complex and mystifying art of magic and engage in the illusions in closeup and parlor segments. Arts Club of Washington: 2017 I St. NW, Washington, DC, $68
Josephine: Chamber Opera
February 1, 7:30–9:30 p.m.
Celebrate Black History Month and explore the life of singer-entertainer and Civil Rights activist Josephine Baker through the self-titled monodrama Josephine, starring soprano Melissa Wimbush and the Chiarina Chamber Players. St. Marks Capitol Hill: 301 A St. SE, Washington DC, $30, ages 18 and under are free
Cake Pops Making Class
February 1–2, 1–2:30 p.m.
Kids will love this fun cake pop making workshop that teaches the step-by-step process with the reward of eating their creations. Tiny Chefs: 6100 Franconia Rd., Ste. D, Alexandria, $50
Fairfax City Chocolate Lovers Festival
February 1–2
There’s no better way to kick off the start of the month than with an endless supply of chocolate. The annual festival will feature chocolate tastings, a make-your-own chocolate bar station, and plenty of sweet treats from local vendors. Main Street, Fairfax, free
National Ballet of China: Chinese New Year (A Ballet in Two Acts)
Through February 2
Chinese culture meets western ballet with the National Ballet of China’s original creation. The dynamic choreography and characters tell the story of a young girl and her family as they celebrate the Chinese New Year, set to Tchaikovsky’s Nutcracker score. The Kennedy Center: 2700 F St. NW, Washington, DC, $30–$142
Paper Quilling Workshop
February 2, 3–5 p.m.
Turn plain strips of paper into stunning artwork through the easy and innovative art of paper quilling. Engage in hands-on instructions and craft the perfect heart-framed keepsake your significant other won’t soon forget. Banditos Tacos & Tequila Fairfax: 10621 Braddock Rd., Fairfax, $25–$50
Sip and Candle Making
February 2, 1–4 p.m.
Create your own custom candle and mingle with other crafters while savoring a refreshing beer. Heritage Brewing Co.: 9436 Center Point Ln., Manassas, $40
Healthy Heart Through Pickleball
February 2, 9 a.m.–3p.m.
Celebrate National Heart Health Month and receive helpful and professional health resources, guidance, and connections. The event includes a two-hour open play session. Pickleballerz: 14424 Albemarle Point Pl., Chantilly, free
Winter Weary Blues Experience
February 2, 6–8 p.m.
Dress to impress for a night of smooth jazz and introspective spoken word. Some of the proceeds benefit Dare to Care, which serves communities in need. The event includes a complimentary dessert from Pop-Up Pastries and a hot chocolate bar. Instrata Pentagon City: 901 15th St., Arlington, $20
Frozen and Darth Vader Family Event
February 2, 12–6 p.m.
Grab the kids for a fun-filled day of face-paintings, arts and crafts, moon bounces, magic shows, and live performances by Princess Elsa and Darth Vader. Bring man’s best friend to enjoy the festivities, either on-leash or in their off-leash dog park. Shipgarten: 7581 Colshire Dr., McLean, free
Yoga Pop-up
February 2, 10–11 a.m.
Push your limits in this all-inclusive Vinyasa Flow class with Jenny Cline. Leave with that “yoga glow” and take on the week with a new attitude. Stick around the brewery afterwards for complimentary refreshments on Jenny. Mustang Sally Brewing Company: 14140 Parke Long Ct., Ste. A-C Chantilly, $25
Feature image courtesy National Ballet of China