By MELANIE VELISEK
Florida Today

The following is a sample of the festive events planned nationwide:

'Spring Loaded' by John Banovich

SOUTHEASTERN WILDLIFE EXPOSITION, Charleston, S.C., Feb. 13-15: This world-renowned exhibit and sale of original wildlife art, carvings, sculpture, photography and antique sporting collectibles also will feature live endangered species, cooking and more. Call (803) 723-1748.

EDISON FESTIVAL OF LIGHT, Fort Myers, Fla. Feb. 6-22: This festival, commemorating the birthday of the area's most famous winter resident, Thomas Edison, will feature three weeks of events including a parade of lights through downtown on Feb. 21. Opening ceremonies will be Feb. 6, a Gala Ball will take place Feb. 17 and more events are planned throughout. Call (941) 334-2999.

FUR RENDEZVOUS WINTER CARNIVAL, Anchorage, Alaska, Feb. 13: World Championship Sled Dog Race, fireworks, outdoor games and more will be part of this winter carnival, one of the largest in North America. Call (907) 277-8615.

NEWPORT WINTER FESTIVAL, Newport, R.I., Feb. 13-22: This unique city-wide event will combine food, music and entertainment. Call (401) 847-7666.

18TH ANNUAL BLACK HERITAGE FESTIVAL, Anniston, Ala., Feb. 14: Song, dance, storytellings, craft demonstrations, orations and more all will be a part of the area's largest and longest running celebration of Black History Month. The Anniston Museum of Natural History, 800 Museum Drive, hosts the free festival throughout the day. Call (205) 237-6766.

FAMILY FUN WEEK, Sturbridge, Mass., Feb. 17-22: People of all ages will be able to participate in such activities as candle making, musical performances, storytellings and sleigh rides. Call (508) 347-3362.

SOUTHERN SPRING SHOW, Charlotte, N.C., Feb. 21-March 1: More than 90,000 people will preview spring with gardens and landscapes, flower show and orchid pavilions at the horticulture marketplace. Interior designers and nationally known experts will lecture, display, advise and more. Call (704) 376-6594.

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