February may be a slower month for tourism in many communities, but that is not the case in Vincennes, according to Janice Barniak with the Vincennes Knox County Tourism Bureau.
Barniak said the February calendar includes multiple events tied to Presidents’ Day, history, music, and family programming. One of the focal points is Presidents’ Day programming connected to William Henry Harrison, whose presidential home, Grouseland, is located near the Vincennes University campus.
Barniak said Grouseland hosts an annual Presidents’ Day event centered on Harrison, and additional programming related to the former president is scheduled at the library. A program focused on Harrison and his wife is planned for Thursday, February 12, from 2 to 4 p.m., featuring a guest expert.
Cultural events are also part of the February lineup. Barniak highlighted an upcoming Evansville Philharmonic Orchestra performance titled “Bond, James Bond,” describing it as a recognizable music program with broad appeal. The library is also hosting a Valentine’s Day program on February 14 at 2 p.m., featuring Vincennes University professor Aaron Tyson Sims discussing Frederick Douglass’s speech, “What to the Slave Is the Fourth of July?”
Barniak said Sims has previously portrayed Frederick Douglass in public programs and has connections to Lyle Station, adding historical context to the presentation.
In addition, the Vincennes State Historic Sites will offer free admission on Presidents’ Day. The sites are located across the street from Grouseland, allowing visitors to attend multiple historic locations in one trip.
Another February tradition returning this year is the George Rogers Clark March, scheduled for February 21. The event retraces the final five miles of Clark’s historic journey and includes readings from his journal and reenactors dressed in 18th-century militia attire.
Family-focused programming is also planned for February 21 with Princess Academy, an event designed for young girls. The program includes themed activities such as dancing, tea, and certificates of participation, with volunteers often assisting from the Vincennes University campus.
Rounding out the month is a comedy fundraiser scheduled at Thursday Church, featuring comedian Tony Wolf along with stand-up performances by several local pastors. Barniak said the event sold out last year and includes short comedy sets from clergy members in the community.
Barniak said the range of events offers residents and visitors multiple opportunities to engage with history, arts, and community activities throughout February.
