Crafting engaging February content

As February approaches, editors seek timely, relevant content to fill their pages and online platforms. From Valentine’s Day to Black History Month and Heart Month, February offers rich opportunities for content creators to get published. Here’s a guide to crafting content that appeals to editors and audiences during this month. 

Key February themes for audiences 

February is full of special events and themes that matter to editors. To capture their attention, consider these key content angles: 

• Valentine’s Day: Editors seek articles that offer unique takes on romance, from DIY date ideas to sustainable gifts. Family-friendly celebrations and self-care themes also resonate with Canadian readers. 

• Family Day: Celebrated in many provinces across Canada, Family Day (also known as Louis Riel Day, Nova Scotia Heritage Day and Islander Day) provides an opportunity for articles focused on activities that bring families together. Ideas for winter outings, indoor games and budget-friendly ways to spend time with loved ones can fit well into lifestyle sections. 

• Heart Month: Health and wellness articles focusing on cardiovascular health, fitness tips, and heart-healthy recipes are especially relevant in February. This content fits well in the lifestyle, health, and community sections. 

• Winter lifestyle topics: Canadian winters call for practical advice on outdoor activities, cold-weather safety and home heating tips. Editors appreciate articles that offer readers useful, seasonal information. 

Creating editor-ready content 

To increase the chances of your content being picked up, make sure it aligns with what editors are looking for: 

1. Follow Canadian Press Style: Content should adhere to the Canadian Press Style Guide for a professional, newsroom-ready tone. Writing in a neutral, third-person voice will appeal to editors who want content that can be quickly integrated into their publications. 
2. Provide evergreen content: While seasonal articles are valuable, editors also appreciate “evergreen” content that remains relevant beyond February. For example, winter safety tips or general health advice can be helpful all season. 
3. Limit brand mentions: Editors prefer earned media that doesn’t feel overly promotional. Keep brand mentions to a maximum of two per article, whether referencing a company, product or website. 
4. Include images: High-quality, copyright-free photos can make your content more attractive to editors. Visuals related to winter landscapes, Valentine’s Day or health themes can enhance the appeal of your articles. 

Submission timing  

February articles

1. Submit article topic brief: November 1^st to 18^th Download brief here.
2. First drafts of content due: by November 29^th
3. Content promoted to media: First week of January

February radio

• Submit radio production brief: By January 2^nd Download brief here.

February video

• Submit video production brief: By December 2^nd Download brief here.
• Pre-produced videos: If you already have a video ready, it will need to be vetted by our editorial team before distribution. Contact your account manager for more details.

Tailoring content for Canadian editors and multi-category appeal 

Incorporating Canadian-specific references, such as awareness days/weeks or events, helps your content resonate with editors and readers. Whether covering Valentine’s Day or winter activities, linking your content to Canadian experiences makes it more relevant and appealing. 

Additionally, content that covers multiple categories can increase its value. A Heart Month article that also discusses winter fitness tips, for example, appeals to health and lifestyle sections, broadening its potential reach. 

February offers a wealth of content opportunities. Creating timely, editor-friendly content that fits the Canadian context and observing essential editorial guidelines can increase the likelihood of media placements and reader engagement.  

For more information on how to get started with your content, contact us at info@fifthstory.com.