Updated February 16, 2026
10 Fun Things to do in Clear Lake in February
We know you were eagerly anticipating Color the Wind on February 21, 2026 along with us, but the unpredictable ice conditions had other plans. While the kites may not be soaring, let’s turn this unexpected twist into an opportunity to explore the wonderful winter activities that Clear Lake has to offer. More importantly, it’s a chance for us to rally together and provide crucial support to our local businesses during these quieter winter months.
1. Shop & Dine in Clear Lake:
Clear Lake’s local businesses are ready to welcome you with open arms. Take a stroll through our charming shops and treat yourself to a delightful dining experience at one of our eateries. Check out our shopping and dining guides for a comprehensive list of local businesses. Need more inspo? Here’s a curated shopping list if you’re planning a Girlfriends’ Getaway! Discover trendy shops, delicious snacks, and memorable experiences to make your trip unforgettable. Shopping and dining are perfect Clear Lake winter activities that show our support to our tourism partners.
2. Live Music
Check out our events calendar for all the fun from karaoke nights and live bands!
3. Lake Theatre Movie Night:
Beat the winter chill by catching a movie at the Lake Theatre.
Click here for tickets!
4. Clear Lake Library Kite Festival Activities:
Join the library for a day of exciting indoor festivities that will go on as planned!
10:30 am: Color the Wind Story Time will feature colorful stories, rhymes, and a craft. A hot chocolate bar will also be available.
12 pm – 4:00 pm: the Library Meeting Room will be open as a warming house with games and crafts to enjoy while you take a break from the cold. A hot chocolate bar will also be available.
5. Explore the Surf Ballroom & Museum historical sites
Immerse yourself in the rich history of Clear Lake by visiting the Surf Ballroom & Museum, Iowa’s 27th National Historic Landmark. Visit Three Stars Plaza, located one block west of the Surf’s main entrance, this circular park plays off the musical significance of Clear Lake and features an art deco inspired central spindle holding three 45 records in position “ready to play.” After visiting the Surf Ballroom, head to the crash site to complete the final piece of rock ‘n’ roll history with a trek to the Three Stars Memorial Site where the plane came to rest just 5 miles north of Clear Lake.
The Surf Ballroom is open from 10am-5pm, with tours of the Music Experience Center now open. Walk through Clear Lake’s music legacy with rare exhibits and an immersive experience that set the stage before you explore the Surf itself.
6. Clear Lake Arts Center Exhibit:
Head to the Clear Lake Arts Center to experience a studio activity in wind, light & color through shape from 10am-1pm. Step into a world of color, light, and imagination in this hands-on art activity for all ages. Participants will design your own stained-glass inspired window using construction paper and glowing cellophane, exploring how layered shapes transform when light shines through. Inspired by Tom Dakin’s solo exhibition Windows in the Church of Nature in the Hanson Gallery, this activity invites you to observe the bold shapes and movement of kites. Take inspiration from both the gallery and outdoors during the Kite Festival. Create a viewfinder to help choose your composition. Translate what you see into a one-of-a-kind design to take home, discovering how light, color, and shape work together through observation and creative play. Perfect for curious creators who love nature, color, and art that shines.
7. Go on a StoryWalk®:
This series of signs featuring pages from a book combined with prompts will get you moving and develop literacy skills. Follow the 20 story posts starting at the south parking lot at the Outlet Recreation Complex and walk the over half a mile. Now until the end of February, find “When the Snow is Deeper Than My Boots are Tall” by Jean Reidy.
8. Play at Our Parks:
Mild temperatures aren’t good for ice, but it’s great to enjoy our parks, like the Everybody Plays Inclusive Playground! Open in October 2023, this park is the only one of it’s kind within 90 miles. Everybody Plays allows children and adults of all abilities to grow and play together.
9. Go Treasure Hunting:
Clear Lake is home hundreds of caches! A modern-day treasure hunt that will take you on some amazing treks, this family-friendly hobby gets you outdoors and active. Be sure to search for Clear Lake Tourism’s cache series that includes a special takeaway in each one!
10. Check off the Cerro Gordo Freedom Rock:
Art enthusiasts, explore the Cerro Gordo Freedom Rock – a piece of a larger mural series throughout each of the 99-counties in Iowa. Grab a Freedom Rock map at the Visitor Center or find it online for an art-filled excursion.
As we navigate the challenges posed by the cancellation of Color the Wind and other winter events impacting tourism, let’s come together to support our local community. Your visit to Clear Lake makes a significant difference in helping our businesses thrive during the slower winter season. Experience the warmth of our community, and create lasting memories in the heart of Iowa and enjoy Clear Lake winter activities.