What to do in Oxford and across Oxfordshire in February.
Sometimes, the shortest month of the year can feel like a long old slog; the last push through the darkness and freezing temperatures until Spring officially starts in March, and when leaving a self-imposed Netflix hibernation finally seems feasible again.
But February’s actually not too shabby. It’s got a range of fantastic events right here on our doorstep – from concerts and gigs to theatre and comedy. So stay focussed and make the most of this February in Oxford and across Oxfordshire.
Whether it’s an invigorating winter walk or snuggling up in one of Oxfordshire’s cosy pubs (or perhaps both!), now’s also a good time to discover new places to visit in Oxford and the surrounding areas.
Of course, this is a curated list of the top things to do in Oxford and across Oxfordshire this February. Be sure to visit the What’s on section of the website where you’ll find a full list of events in Oxford and across Oxfordshire as well as unmissable events beyond the county that would make for a great day out.
Got an event that should be on the list? List your event on The Oxford Magazine and reach an engaged audience of people who live, work or place in Oxfordshire. Once again, welcome to your invaluable guide to what’s on in Oxford and across Oxfordshire this February.
NW Inventors: Weekly Drama Workshop in Cutteslowe
The NW Inventors youth theatre offers young people the chance to build confidence, make friends and develop drama skills, with a year-long journey that includes performance training, devising a show and rehearsing for a Summer Showcase at The North Wall.
Chris McCausland: Yonks!
Chris McCausland is hitting the road again with another masterclass in stand-up comedy that has literally been yonks in the making, so get your tickets now! You might have seen him on Strictly Come Dancing, Would I Lie to You, Have I Got News for You, The Royal Variety, QI, Blankety Blank, The Last Leg, and tons more as well.
The Constant Wife
The Royal Shakespeare Company brings The Constant Wife to the stage ahead of its West End run. Adapted by Laura Wade and starring Kara Tointon, this witty 1920s comedy explores marriage, desire and independence with sharp humour and style.
Oxford Philharmonic Orchestra: Maxim Vengerov
Violin legend Maxim Vengerov performs Tchaikovsky’s Violin Concerto with the Oxford Philharmonic Orchestra, conducted by Marios Papadopoulos, before a thrilling performance of Brahms’s Symphony No. 1, promising an evening of intensity, lyricism and grandeur.
Varna International Ballet – Cinderella
Step into the enchanting world of Cinderella, where dreams come true in a dazzling tale of magic and romance, by Varna International Ballet and accompanied by live orchestra, Varna International Ballet Orchestra.
Early Music 13: Julian Perkins
Early Music 13 welcomes Julian Perkins back to Oxford for a performance of Bach’s Goldberg Variations, played on a two-manual harpsichord. Following his acclaimed recital last year, Perkins brings fresh insight to one of Bach’s most celebrated masterpieces.
Christmas Carol Goes Wrong
The Cornley Amateur Drama Society are back with tidings of chaos and joy, ready to tackle Charles Dickens’ classic, A Christmas Carol. Don’t miss this new production of Christmas Carol Goes Wrong from Mischief, the multi award-winning company behind The Play That Goes Wrong, Peter Pan Goes Wrong and The Comedy About a Bank Robbery.
Lions and Tigers and Bears with Gordon Buchanan
Award-winning wildlife filmmaker Gordon Buchanan is back on tour in 2026 with Lions and Tigers and Bears. Hear extraordinary stories from encounters with the world’s most powerful animals, spanning continents, extreme environments and a lifetime dedicated to revealing the secrets of the natural world.
Varna International Ballet – The Nutcracker
Join The Nutcracker, a ballet performance of the highest quality performed by Varna International Ballet and accompanied by live orchestra, Varna International Ballet Orchestra.
Varna International Ballet – Swan Lake
Swan Lake is a classic tragic love narrative, telling the story of the doomed love between Prince Siegfried and Princess Odette. Performed by Varna International Ballet. Accompanied by live orchestra, Varna International Ballet Orchestra.
High Sheriff’s Law Lecture 2026
Join High Sheriff’s Law Lecture 2026 with speaker Lord Paul Boateng who will offer reflections on Hearing the Young Unheard. Organised by the High Sheriff of Oxfordshire, the event brings together legal professionals, civic leaders, law enforcement, and public figures to explore contemporary issues in justice, law, and society.
The event will be hosted in the Gulbenkian Lecture Theatre at Oxford’s Law Faculty, St Cross Road
Elvana: Elvis Fronted Nirvana
Elvana is the world’s finest Elvis tribute to Nirvana, singing their catalogue whilst splicing in grunged up sections of the finest moments. It smells like cheeseburgers and teen spirit, daddy-o!
Katy Rose Bennett & Isca
Singer-songwriter Katy Rose Bennett teams up with Oxford-based a cappella group Isca for a special live performance. Expect earthy folk storytelling, rich vocal harmonies and fresh reimaginings of songs spanning folk, pop and rock favourites.
Oye Santana
Official National Tribute Music Award winners Oye Santana deliver a high-energy celebration of Carlos Santana, recreating iconic hits from Black Magic Woman to Smooth in a vibrant, feel-good live show that’s a true fiesta for the senses.
Ensemble Isis Series: Anna Clyne
Ensemble Isis welcomes acclaimed American composer Anna Clyne for an evening talk and concert, featuring her 2020 work Fractured Time alongside new compositions by Oxford student composers, ahead of a major 2026 premiere.
A Tribute to Sting & The Police starring The Rozzers
The Rozzers deliver a thrilling Tribute to Sting & The Police, recreating legendary hits from Roxanne to Fields of Gold with remarkable accuracy, fronted by Sting look-and-soundalike Owen James on their biggest UK tour yet.
Mo Gilligan: The Mo You Know
Triple BAFTA-winning stand-up sensation Mo Gilligan returns in 2026 with his brand-new stand-up show, The Mo You Know — his biggest world tour yet. As one of the UK’s biggest comedy stars, Mo has achieved phenomenal success in just a few short years with two sold-out national tours, three Stand Up Specials, and numerous smash hit TV credits to his name, with highlights including The Lateish Show with Mo Gilligan, The Brit Awards and The Masked Singer.
Summertown Choral Society: Bach Magnificat in D
Experience Bach and Haydn at their most powerful in a thrilling concert pairing the Magnificat with the dramatic Paukenmesse, performed by outstanding soloists and the acclaimed Instruments of Time and Truth.
The Best of Tubular Bells I, II & III
The Best of Tubular Bells I, II & III celebrates the brilliance of these iconic and seminal musical pieces. This tour will feature an expansive live group, led and arranged by Mike Oldfield’s long-term collaborator Robin Smith, which will see the whole of Tubular Bells I performed in full, along with extended sections of Tubular Bells II and III, as well as worldwide hit single Moonlight Shadow.
Reginald D Hunter Plus Special Guests!
Acclaimed comedian Reginald D Hunter takes to the stage for a riotous evening of stand-up, joined by two special guest acts. Expect sharp observations, bold humour and laugh-out-loud comedy from one of the UK’s best-loved performers.
Transatlantic Sessions
Transatlantic Sessions returns for 2026, continuing to explore and celebrate the rich musical traditions that connect Scotland, Ireland and the US.
Chris McCausland: Yonks!
Chris McCausland brings another masterclass in stand-up comedy that has literally been yonks in the making, so get your tickets now! You might have seen him on Strictly Come Dancing, Would I Lie to You, Have I Got News for You, The Royal Variety, QI, Blankety Blank, The Last Leg, and tons more as well.
Psychic Sally
The nation’s favourite psychic is back on tour! Sally has been wowing theatre audiences young and old around the world for over 12 years. Her show will have you on the edge of your seat, as she continues to bring mediumship into the 21st century. Book your tickets now to see this phenomenal psychic in action. The show is investigational and for the purpose of entertainment.
The Woman In Black
The Woman In Black, the legendary production of Susan Hill’s chilling ghost story returns to Oxford. A brilliantly successful study in atmosphere, illusion, and controlled horror which delights and terrifies audiences.
Sunny Afternoon
Sunny Afternoon celebrates the raw energy, passion, and timeless sound of one of Britain’s most iconic bands, The Kinks, telling their story through an incredible back catalogue of chart-toppers, including ‘You Really Got Me’, ‘Lola’, and ‘All Day and All of the Night’.
Harry Redknapp
Harry Redknapp brings his trademark humour and storytelling to the stage, sharing unforgettable football anecdotes, behind-the-scenes secrets and tales from I’m a Celebrity. A fun-filled evening of laughs, charm and classic banter not to be missed.
The HoT Podcast Festival: Travel Secrets – The Podcast with Tanya Rose
Join Travel Secrets host Tanya Rose for a live podcast recording in Henley, featuring Christopher Biggins and special local guests sharing candid travel stories, insider tips and globe-trotting anecdotes in an intimate, entertaining evening.
John Kearns: Tilting at Windmills
Double Edinburgh Comedy Award winner and Taskmaster star John Kearns returns with Tilting at Windmills, a fragmented, digressive stand up show exploring modern life with surreal humour, bleak wit and unforgettable stage presence.
NT Live: The Fifth Step
Jack Lowden and Martin Freeman lead this provocative new play by David Ireland. When a fragile friendship forms in Alcoholics Anonymous, a moment of confession exposes dangerous truths that threaten trust, recovery and everything they’ve built together.
Sherlock Holmes: The Death and Life
This light-hearted, one-man Sherlock Holmes tale explores what happens when Arthur Conan Doyle tries to rid himself of his famous creation. As fiction and fantasy collide, murder, mystery and the occult unfold—and the great detective refuses to disappear.
The HoT Podcast Festival: Made by Mammas – Girls night Out – Live on Stage
Broadcasters Zoe Hardman and Georgia Dayton bring their hit podcast Made By Mammas live to the stage. Expect honest conversations about parenting, social media and modern family life, mixed with laughs, fashion chat and feel-good fun in a relaxed girls’ night out atmosphere.
The Irish House Party
The Irish House Party brings the true spirit of Ireland to the stage with champion musicians, world-class dancers and infectious live music. Funny, intimate and full of energy, this feel-good show recreates the warmth, storytelling and joy of a real Irish house party.
Lucy Porter: Let Yourself Go!
Lucy returns with a hilarious and heartfelt new show about letting go, embracing midlife and reinventing yourself. From slankets and Babychams to new goals and fresh confidence, it’s an honest, joyful celebration of freedom, change and self-acceptance.
Connor Burns: Gallus
Scotland’s breakout comedy star Connor Burns brings his fourth solo show Gallus to the stage, delivering lightning-fast jokes, bold storytelling, and sharp Scottish cynicism. A must-see live stand-up experience from an award-winning comedian on the rise.
The HoT Podcast Festival: Ollie Phillip’s “The Eternal Optimist” Podcast – Seas Life
Join Ollie Phillips and Sophie Storm Roberts for the first-ever live recording of The Eternal Optimist podcast, featuring powerful stories from a 3,000-mile Atlantic row. An inspiring evening exploring resilience, teamwork, mindset, and performing under extreme conditions.
Luther Vandross – The Candlelight Concert
Experience a soulful candlelight tribute to Luther Vandross as a gifted vocalist and live band perform his greatest classics, from joyful anthems to heartfelt ballads, honoring the timeless voice, love, and legacy of an R&B icon.
Forever Clapton
Forever Clapton is a brand-new live production for 2026, charting Eric Clapton’s extraordinary career from the Blues Breakers and Cream to Unplugged, performed with stunning authenticity by Benny “Guitar” Smith and his six-piece band.
Swiftogeddon: The Taylor Themed Club Night
Swiftogeddon is a night dedicated to worshipping at the altar of Taylor Swift: non-stop Swifty all night: deep cuts, extended mixes, fan favourites, and all the hits. Join fellow fans in a celebration of the genius of the Swift – because she’ll never go out of “Style”.
Ministry of Science LIVE – Science Saved The World
Direct from the West End, Ministry of Science LIVE – Science Saved The World is a high-energy spectacle packed with explosive experiments, fire, liquid nitrogen clouds, and inspiring science stories. Educational, anarchic, and outrageously fun for curious minds of all ages.
Rebecca Poole – Romancing the Song – Valentine’s Special
Romance the Song is a Valentine’s special with acclaimed singer-songwriter Rebecca Poole, blending timeless jazz-age love songs with her own celebrated originals. Expect velvet vocals, playful charm, and a heartfelt evening of romance, swing, blues, and beautiful storytelling.
Soul Kinda Wonderful
Relive the golden era of Soul and Motown with Soul Kinda Wonderful, the UK’s award-winning tribute to The Drifters, The Four Tops and The Temptations. Featuring Richie Sampson, expect timeless hits, rich harmonies, and unforgettable classic soul.
Emmanuel Sonubi – Life After Near Death
Emmanuel Sonubi presents his hilarious show – Life After Near Death, delivering unstoppable energy, razor-sharp wit, and stories that hit hard as he can and still land even harder. Come and see for yourself… (and bring your glasses).
James Ehnes & Andrew Armstrong
World-renowned violinist James Ehnes joins pianist Andrew Armstrong for an exceptional recital featuring works by Mozart, Elgar and Ravel. Part of an international 2026 tour celebrating Ehnes’ 50th birthday, this concert marks a special return to Trinity College, Oxford.
Maximo Park
Maximo Park mark the 20th anniversary of their acclaimed debut A Certain Trigger with a special live tour. Expect songs from the landmark album alongside the band’s greatest hits, celebrating a record that still resonates powerfully today.
Killer Couples with Emma Kenny
Emma Kenny brings her powerful storytelling back to the stage with Killer Couples, a chilling true crime show examining relationships where love turns lethal. Exploring psychology, manipulation and shared motive, this compelling evening dives deep into some of the most disturbing criminal partnerships in history.
Twilight in Concert – The Film with Live Band
Twilight in Concert is a cinematic live experience where the original Twilight movie is screened as a live 12-piece band performs. Over a thousand twinkling candles will illuminate the stage, creating a romantic and magical atmosphere that enhances the beauty of the film’s iconic music.
NW Inventors: Character Creations
Join NW Inventors this February half term for Character Creations, an interactive two-day drama workshop exploring character development. Young participants will invent, design and perform original characters using voice, movement and imagination in a fun, supportive studio environment at The North Wall.
Here & Now – The Steps Musical
Here & Now is the hilarious and heart-warming new musical based on the songs of the multi-million-selling pop phenomenon, Steps. Don’t miss this sparkling celebration of love and friendship when it comes to New Theatre Oxford following its record-breaking world premiere this year!
YouthLab: Dance Masterclass
YouthLab: Dance Masterclass invites young dancers to train with Company Chameleon during a high-energy February half-term intensive. Participants will explore the company’s distinctive movement style, create original choreography with professional dancers, and perform live at Pegasus Theatre as part of Dancin’ Oxford’s 20th Anniversary Spring Dance Festival.
The Complete Works Of William Shakespeare (abridged)
The Theatre Chipping Norton and Selladoor Worldwide present a bold new version of The Complete Works of William Shakespeare (abridged). Rebooted for 2026, this wildly funny, high-speed romp through all 37 plays delivers irreverent humour, theatrical chaos and nonstop laughter before heading out on a major UK tour.
The Ultimate Bubble Show
Ray Bubbles, International Bubbleologist and Guinness World Record Holder, is on a mission to master the art of bubble-making and create the ultimate square bubble! This show promises a whirlwind of excitement and surprises, as Ray uses various different gases to craft stunning bubble sculptures, effects, and magical displays.
100 Years Celebration of Laurel & Hardy – Presented by Neil Brand
Mark 100 years of Laurel & Hardy with an entertaining live show presented by Neil Brand. Featuring film clips, rare stills and brilliant piano accompaniment, this joyful tribute explores the legacy of the legendary comedy duo, promising laughter and insight throughout.
China Crisis
Pop legends China Crisis head back on the road with their Warped Tour 2026. Gary Daly and Eddie Lundon perform beloved chart hits like Wishful Thinking and Black Man Ray, alongside treasured deep cuts that have captivated fans for over four decades.
Hundred Watt Club
Roll Up! Roll Up! The risqué, raunchy & ridiculous people of Hundred Watt Club return to The Beacon with another glittering and glorious evening of burlesque, vaudeville & comedy. With a seductive & sizzling cast hand selected by Lena Lenman, this show is a no-holds barred, full throttle journey into the wonderful world of tease & tassels, showgirls and circus.
The Stars of Tomorrow
Over two spectacular evenings, more than 40 local theatre schools and youth groups come together for The Stars of Tomorrow. Featuring singers, dancers, actors and performers across multiple styles, this vibrant showcase celebrates outstanding young talent with stunning visuals and electrifying performances.
Thames Valley Early Music Forum
Thames Valley Early Music Forum invites singers and baroque instrumentalists to a day of choruses and highlights from two of Purcell’s odes – Come ye Sons of Art, composed for Queen Mary’s birthday in 1694, and Hail, bright Cecilia! First performed at Stationers’ Hall on St Cecilia’s Day in 1692.
Gala Concert: Celebrating 80 Years of Twinning Between Oxford and Leiden
Celebrate 80 years of twinning between Oxford and Leiden with an elegant gala concert featuring operatic favourites and orchestral works, performed by OSJ Voices, guest musicians from Leiden, and soloists Dominic Bevan and Hannah Davey.
Crazy Diamond – A Tribute to the Music of Pink Floyd
Crazy Diamond brings Pink Floyd’s legendary sound to life with their show Wish You Were Here. The eight-piece band blends faithful renditions with their own creative flair, performing classics like The Great Gig in the Sky and Echoes.
2:22 A Ghost Story
2:22 A Ghost Story is a brilliantly funny and adrenaline-filled night where secrets emerge and ghosts may or may not appear… What do you believe? And do you dare discover the truth?
Keble Early Music Festival 2026
The Keble Early Music Festival at Keble College, Oxford, celebrates medieval, Renaissance, and Baroque music with world-class performances, masterclasses, and talks. Held in the stunning Keble College Chapel, it showcases historically informed interpretations, bringing early music to life. A highlight of Oxford’s musical calendar, it attracts enthusiasts of both music and history.
Ellen Kent: The Farewell Tour – Madama Butterfly
Senbla presents Ellen Kent’s Madama Butterfly featuring Opera International Kyiv, Ukraine, with Highly-Praised Soloists and Full Orchestra. Highlights include the melodic ‘Humming Chorus’, the moving aria ‘One Fine Day’, and the unforgettable ‘Love Duet’.
Learn to paint Landscapes in Acrylics
Award-winning artist Peter Keegan returns to Aylesbury Waterside Theatre for a one-day acrylic painting workshop. Suitable for all levels, the session covers techniques, composition, and includes a tour of Peter’s residency works on display at the theatre.
A Country Night in Nashville
Direct from the Royal Albert Hall, A Country Night in Nashville brings the heart of Music City to life. Join Dominic Halpin and the Hurricanes for a toe-tapping journey through country music’s greatest hits—from Johnny Cash and Dolly Parton to Kacey Musgraves and The Chicks.
The Tiger Who Came To Tea
Direct from the West End, the Olivier Award nominated smash hit show, The Tiger Who Came to Tea returns on tour. Join the tea-guzzling tiger in this delightful family show, packed with oodles of magic, sing-a-long songs and clumsy chaos.
Learn to Paint Figure Scenes in Acrylics
Learn how to paint figures in vibrant outdoor scenes—from beaches to cafés—with award-winning artist Peter Keegan. Hosted at Aylesbury Waterside Theatre, this one-day acrylic workshop welcomes beginners and experienced painters alike, with all materials provided and plenty of one-to-one guidance.
Learn to Paint Coastal Scenes in Acrylics
Learn how to paint coastal scenes in acrylics with award-winning artist Peter Keegan. Hosted at Aylesbury Waterside Theatre, this one-day acrylic workshop welcomes beginners and experienced painters alike, with all materials provided and plenty of one-to-one guidance.
Oxford Philharmonic Orchestra: Ravel Introduction and Allegro
Principal woodwinds of the Oxford Philharmonic Orchestra take centre stage in an intimate chamber concert of poise and beauty, featuring Mozart’s Clarinet Quintet, Debussy’s haunting Sonata and Ravel’s radiant Introduction and Allegro.
Images of Authority: Portraits Between Iran and Europe
Images of Authority: Portraits Between Iran and Europe explores how Fath Ali Shah Qajar, King George III, and Napoleon Bonaparte used portraiture to convey power and personality. Featuring works from Iran, Britain, and France, the exhibition includes restored Qajar paintings and reveals the strategies behind these rulers’ compelling visual representations.
Pat Suet-Bik Hui & the Three Perfections
Pat Suet-Bik Hui & the Three Perfections showcases the Hong Kong-born artist’s mastery of painting, calligraphy, and poetry, presented alongside works by her teacher Lui Shou-Kwan and other historical examples. The exhibition highlights Hui’s contemporary approach, blending abstract ink and colour washes with poetic inscriptions exploring love, loss, and life’s quiet joys.
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