ONE-TANK TRIPS

ILLINOIS

Through Feb. 20 | Chicago Auto Show, McCormick Place, 2301 S. Lake Shore Drive, Chicago, www.chicagoautoshow.com

Auto enthusiasts trek to this annual convention — celebrating its 104th anniversary this year — of more than 1,000 of the newest cars, trucks, SUVs and concept cars, all displayed within the colossal confines of McCormick Place.

Feb. 12| Be My Valentine, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., The Ritz-Carlton Hotel, 160 E Pearson St, Chicago, (312) 926-7133, www.lynnsage.org

This fifth annual event for the Lynn Sage Cancer Research Foundation features a scrumptious family brunch buffet, Valentine's activities for children and special concert by award-winning children's musician Justin Roberts & the Not Ready for Naptime Players. The event will also include music, dancing, make-over's, cookie decorating, a silent auction, raffle and special performance by Pinkalicioius: The Musical.

Feb. 17-26 | A Circus with a Purpose, 10:30 a.m., 1:30 p.m. and 7 p.m. Monday to Saturday, 1:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. Sunday, Navy Pier, 600 E Grand Ave, Chicago, (312) 803-0096, www.windycitycircus.org

This circus features awe-inspiring performers from countries around the globe, plus circus performers depicting historic Chicago characters. Windy City Circus will donate 80 percent of all net proceeds from its winter 2012 performances to Ronald McDonald House Charities of Chicagoland and Northwest Indiana and to Special Olympics Chicago.

Feb. 24-26 | IKC Dog Show, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., McCormick Place, 2301 S Lake Shore Dr., Chicago, www.ikcdogshow.com

In its 151st year, more than 100,000 visitors will get the chance to see approximately 8,000 purebred dogs from 150 breeds demonstrate their ability in a variety of competitions.

INDIANA

Feb. 17 | Winter Bird I.D., 10 a.m., Gibson Woods Nature Preserve, 6201 Parrish Ave, Hammond, (219) 844-3188, www.lakecountyparks.com

Many species of birds stay in Northwest Indiana during winter, from small songbirds and waterfowl to various raptors. Join a park naturalist at Gibson Woods to find out what birds may be found and where to look for them. A short hike may be included, if weather permits.

MICHIGAN

Through Feb. 29 | 2nd Annual Harbor Country Chocolate Classic, various times and locations, Harbor Country, (269)469-5409, www.harborcountry.org

This event features chocolate-themed movies, ice-sculpting, sleigh rides and creative activities for all ages. Culinary venues will offer chocolate-chip pancakes, hand-made truffles, and chocolate-covered bacon, chocolate-enhanced wine and locally brewed specialty beer. Chocolate Classic retailers entice shoppers with specials on chocolate-hued items including jewelry, glass, furniture and more. Visitors can also win special prizes by participating in various chocolate-themed guessing games.

Feb. 25 | The Great Food & Wine Symposium, 7:30-10 p.m., Grand Rapids Public Museum, 272 Pearl St. NW, Grand Rapids, (616) 456-3977

At West Michigan's premier wine-tasting event, guests can enjoy more than 300 wines and beers from around the world, gourmet selections and classical music.