Everyone knows January and February are the darkest, coldest and grossest months. Seasonal depression is at an all time high during winter. Temperatures don’t exceed 40 degrees Fahrenheit, and there is only nine hours of daylight. It can be hard to find motivation to get out and do things. Thankfully, TKC has compiled a list of things to do in St. Louis during these dreadful months:

1 – The Soulard Mardi Gras festival is held from Jan. 6 – Feb. 21. Mardi Gras, a celebration that originated in France, happens on the Tuesday before Ash Wednesday. From winter carnivals, scavenger hunts, 5k runs and Cajun cook-offs to the big parade on Feb. 18, 2023, it’s impossible to get bored while participating in this celebration. 

2 – On Feb. 4, Destroy Lonely, Homixide Gang and DJ Blak Boy will be performing at Delmar Hall. These up-and-coming artists are associated with rappers such as Ken Carson and Playboi Carti. Going to this highly anticipated concert will definitely be the highlight of your February. You can expect to be in at least one mosh pit before you leave.

3 – You can visit the St. Louis Art Museum (SLAM) for various stationary and traveling exhibits. “Day and Dream in Modern Germany, 1914-1945” is one exhibit at SLAM right now. In the interwar years, German art ranged from depicting utopias to a realistic point of view. This exhibit is available at SLAM until Feb. 26, and costs nothing to get in. Along with the this, you can stop by to see mummies with a toe poking out of its wraps. With different paintings, photographs and sculptures to look at, you can easily spend way too much time here instead of out in the cold.

4 – The infamous ‘Stick Season’ artist, Noah Kahan will be coming to The Pageant to perform this Valentine’s Day. This concert is the perfect way to spend Valentine’s Day, no matter your relationship status. Kahan’s songs range from heartbreak to being completely in love. This folk-pop music is sure to get you out of your winter blues. 

5 – Kirkwood has lots of different sporting events in these two months. Girls’ and boys’ basketball, racquetball, wrestling, hockey and girls’ swimming all have events to attend. There are over 75 events that you can show your Kirkwood spirit at. These games and meets are a great way to get out of the house with your friends.