February Brings History Happenings Across the Region

From maple syrup festivals to Civil War reenactments, there's plenty to explore this month

Jan. 31, 2026 at 3:15am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The winter months may be cold, but there are still plenty of exciting historical events and activities happening across the Tri-Cities region in February. From maple syrup festivals and Civil War reenactments to old-time music jams and gardening seminars, there's something for everyone to enjoy and learn more about the area's rich history.

Why it matters

These monthly history happenings provide valuable educational and cultural opportunities for the local community, allowing residents and visitors alike to connect with the region's past through immersive experiences. They also serve as important fundraisers for historic sites and preservation efforts, ensuring these landmarks and stories are preserved for future generations.

The details

Some of the key events include the Maple Syrup Festival at the Tipton-Haynes State Historic Site on February 14th, where guests can learn about the process of making maple syrup and enjoy a full breakfast. On February 28th, the site will also host a reenactment of the Battle of the State of Franklin. Over at Sycamore Shoals State Historic Park, there will be volunteer workdays, English country dancing lessons, gardening seminars, and old-time music jams throughout the month. The Tri-Cities Civil War Round Table is also hosting a presentation on February 9th exploring the legacies of the American Revolution and Civil War.

  • The Maple Syrup Festival at Tipton-Haynes State Historic Site will take place on February 14, 2026.
  • The Battle of the State of Franklin reenactment at Tipton-Haynes State Historic Site will occur on February 28, 2026.
  • The "For the Love of My Park: Volunteer Workday" at Sycamore Shoals State Historic Park will be held on February 13, 2026.
  • The "Fellowship in English Country Dancing" event at Sycamore Shoals State Historic Park will take place on February 15, 2026.
  • The "Composting & Vegetable Gardening" seminar at Sycamore Shoals State Historic Park is scheduled for February 21, 2026.

The players

Tipton-Haynes State Historic Site

A historic site in Johnson City, Tennessee that hosts various educational events and activities focused on the region's history.

Sycamore Shoals State Historic Park

A state park in Elizabethton, Tennessee that features a variety of historical programs and volunteer opportunities.

Tri-Cities Civil War Round Table

A local organization that hosts presentations and discussions related to the American Civil War.

Dr. Daniel Feller

A historian and professor at the University of Tennessee-Knoxville who will be presenting on the legacies of the American Revolution and Civil War.

Keith Wilson

The president of the Wilderness Trail Association who will be presenting "Retracing Boone's Trail" at the Netherland Inn.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Where Stephens hailed the fulfillment of America's promise, Lincoln warned of its destruction: the threat that with Confederate victory, "government of the people, by the people, for the people" would "perish from the earth.”

— Dr. Daniel Feller, University of Tennessee Historian

“Thirty-two months later, in November 1863, President Abraham Lincoln delivered a famous address at Gettysburg. Like Stephens, he harked back to the American Revolution and to the Declaration of Independence, but in an opposite way.”

— Dr. Daniel Feller, University of Tennessee Historian

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

These monthly history happenings across the Tri-Cities region provide valuable opportunities for the community to engage with and learn about the area's rich past, from maple syrup production to the lasting impacts of the Civil War. They serve as important fundraisers and preservation efforts to ensure these stories and landmarks are not forgotten.