Every State's Best March Events in 2024

March enters the scene each year as a welcome sight from the darkest and coldest days of winter. How can you not love the third month of the year? It’s the time when Spring Break, St. Patrick's Day, March Madness and rising temperatures all come together, making it a month of non-stop excitement and anticipation.

As winter loosens its grip, festivals across the country herald the arrival of spring, showcasing vibrant flower blooms and embracing the changing seasons. From maple syrup harvest celebrations to film festivals, foodie extravaganzas, and art showcases, March offers a diverse array of events to satisfy every taste. Whether you're craving snow-based adventures or seeking out the nearest St. Patrick's Day parade, there's something for everyone to enjoy.

Click on the slideshow to discover the top March events near you or a last-minute Spring Break destination.

Plan a trip to the coast for a weekend filled with artistic delights at the 50th Annual Orange Beach Festival of Art (March 9-10). Later in the month, enjoy the Mobile Azalea Trail Festival (March 2-24), which will showcase the city's stunning azalea bloom. Don't miss the Fairhope Arts & Crafts Festival (March 15-17) and be sure to sport your best shade of green at Callaghan's Irish Social Club in Mobile for the ultimate St. Paddy's Day party.

The start of March is fantastic in the Last Frontier as March 2 marks the thrilling start of the 52nd Annual Iditarod Sled Dog Race alongside the conclusion of the vibrant Fur Rondy Festival (runs through March 3) with spectacular events like the Blanket Tosses and the Running of the Reindeer. In Fairbanks, the Ice Alaska World Ice Art Championships at the Tanana Valley Fairgrounds will impress the crowds through March 3, but weather permitting, you'll be able to admire the stunning ice sculptures until March 31. 

Get ready for a lively month in the Phoenix Metro area as Spring Training returns to 10 stadiums with thrilling Cactus League games between 15 squads. Join the festivities at the M3F Music Festival on March 1-2, followed by Arizona's largest American Indian art fair, the 66th Annual Heard Museum Guild Indian Fair & Market (March 2-3). Dive into the vibrant South Pacific culture at the 30th Annual Aloha Festival on March 16-17. In Tucson, don't miss the 55th Annual Fourth Avenue Street Fair on March 22-24, featuring a blend of artists, food and entertainment. Last but certainly not least, the famed Mesa Easter Pageant will take place on March 20-30. 

Kick off your March with a bang in Little Rock at the lively Little Rock Marathon on March 2-3, offering something for every runner. Even if you're not racing, soak up the fun atmosphere of race weekend in the state capital. Up north, immerse yourself in the twangy tunes of the annual Mountain View Bluegrass Festival (March 7-9). Meanwhile, Hot Springs will go green for the zany World's Shortest St. Patrick's Day Parade on March 16, featuring Grand Marshal Emmitt Smith, live tunes from Pat Green and a plethora of fun happenings. Then, make your way to Eureka Springs for the sweet flavors of the Chocolate Lover's Festival on March 23. 

March kicks off with a flurry of fun at The 42nd Annual North Lake Tahoe SNOWFEST (every day through March 10), celebrating the High Sierra lifestyle with a flurry of festivities. Alternatively, head to the coast for the 53rd Annual Dana Point Festival of Whales (March 1-3), heralding the return of California gray whales. In Los Angeles, music enthusiasts can groove to the beats of the Rolling Loud Music Festival (March 14-17), while foodies can indulge at the Knott's Boysenberry Festival starting on March 8 (runs until early April). Sports lovers won't want to miss The BNP Paribas Open (March 3-17) near Palm Springs, where top tennis talents battle it out on the court under the early spring sunshine. Finally, the delightful white & pink almond blossoms of California’s Central Valley near Modesto are at their peak all month long. 

Experience the magic of cinema at the Colorado Dragon Boat Film Festival (March 14-17) in Denver, showcasing captivating Asian films. Meanwhile, foodies will rejoice again during the 20th Anniversary Denver Restaurant Week (March 1-10), offering delectable delights at various venues across the city. Nature enthusiasts shouldn't miss the 41st Annual Monte Vista Crane Festival (March 8-10), where you can witness the majestic sandhill cranes during their migration. For a thrilling spectacle, head to the 76th Annual Leadville Ski Joring event (March 1-3), where skiers are towed by horses through an exhilarating obstacle course (think jumps, rings and gates) to the delight of revelers.

Kick off your March with the inspiring Special Olympics Connecticut 2024 Winter Games (March 2-3) at Powder Ridge Mountain Park & Resort in Middlefield, cheering on athletes as they showcase their skills. Experience the sweetness of Maple Weekend on March 16-17, celebrating Connecticut's maple syrup industry with sugarhouses opening their doors for tasty samples. And throughout the month, dive into the mesmerizing maritime world of Mystic Seaport during their special Watercraft and Shipyard tours.

Join the festivities at Dogfish Head Brewery in Milton on March 2 for a spirited "302 Day" celebration, honoring all things Delaware on the precise date on the calendar that coincides with its area code. For the perfect pint of Guinness, head to Catherine Rooney's in Wilmington, where 17 days of St. Patrick's Day celebrations kick off on March 1, an annual party that has become legendary in the state. 

Rev your engines for Daytona Beach's 83rd Annual Bike Week from March 1-10, filled with thrilling rides, swap meets, live tunes and plenty of other lively happenings. Meanwhile, in Plant City, the Florida Strawberry Festival (every day through March 10) promises a delightful fair atmosphere for all and concerts from the likes of Black Eyed Peas, Riley Green, Flo Rida, Cody Johnson and many more. Down in Marathon, seafood lovers will rejoice at the annual Seafood Festival on March 9-10, serving up ocean delights. Music aficionados will want to flock to Miami later in the month for the iconic Calle Ocho Music Festival on March 10, followed by the electrifying beats of the ULTRA electronic dance music festival from March 22-24.

Make your way to Valdosta for the delightful 24th Annual Azalea Festival on March 9-10, boasting a delectable food court, arts & crafts, live entertainment and more. Macon bursts into pink during the International Cherry Blossom Festival (March 15-24), celebrating the bloom of over 300,000 Yoshino cherry trees with concerts, parades, wacky bed races and much more. For St. Paddy's Day revelry, head to Savannah, where the city truly embraces the holiday spirit. Don't miss the iconic "greening" of the Forsyth Park Fountain on March 18 and the lively St. Patrick's Day Parade on March 16. 

Join the party on the Big Island for the 29th Anniversary Kona Brewers Festival (March 9), where you can savor the finest beers from both Hawai'i and the mainland while indulging in island cuisine. Meanwhile, on Oahu, immerse yourself in the spirit of "Pacific Harmony" at The 28th Annual Honolulu Festival from March 8-10, fostering unity and cooperation among Hawai'i residents and the Pacific Rim community. On Kau'i, the Princeville Night Market returns on March 10. 

March in Idaho promises some seriously great sounds as Downtown Boise comes alive with the return of the Treefort Music Festival from March 20-24, featuring a stellar lineup of indie artists including Briston Maroney, Ty Segall, DRAMA, Neko Case, Dawes, Lucius, Channel Tres and many more. Meanwhile, up north in Coeur d'Alene, ArtWalk will take place on March 8 and the St. Patrick's Parade will take place on March 16. 

Kick your month off by going on a culinary expedition at the 25th Annual Illinois Product Expo (March 2-3) at the Illinois State Fairgrounds in Springfield. In Chicago, immerse yourself in Irish culture at the Irish Film Festival (in person through March 3 and online through March 10), highlighting cinematic gems from the Emerald Isle. Keep the "green" spirit alive as Chicago dyes its river green on March 16, followed by the city's official St. Patrick's Day parade on the same day. Then on March 17, join the revelry at the South Side Irish St. Patrick's Day Parade, the "local's favorite" St. Paddy's Day parade.  

Ireland, Indiana will paint itself green again this year during its annual St. Paddy's Day soiree (March 15-17) and naturally, there's no better place to celebrate the big day in Indy than McGinleys' Golden Ace, where this venerable Irish bar will once again salute St. Patrick with a three-day knees-up (March 15-17). Other events in the Hoosier State include the Brickworld LEGO Exposition (March 16) and the Indiana Comic Convention (March 22). 

Venture to downtown Decorah for the Oneota Film Festival (runs through March 3), which will showcase captivating movies from across the globe. Meanwhile, outdoor enthusiasts can gear up at the Deer Classic in Des Moines (March 1-3), offering the latest in archery gear and outfitters for hunting & fishing. Cap off the month off in style with the All Iowa Auto Show in Des Moines from March 15-17 (featuring dazzling automobile displays and thrilling driving activities) or by celebrating St. Patrick's Day at Sully's, the city's oldest Irish bar. 

Embark on a global culinary adventure at Pittsburg State University's International Showcase on March 2, where you'll be able to delight in tantalizing food from around the world while enjoying captivating stage performances. Meanwhile, in Lawrence, don't miss the Kansas Craft Brewers Expo on March 2, showcasing top breweries from the state. Then, experience the festive spirit of St. Patrick's Day with the cool college town's 37th Annual Parade on March 17, or if you're in Wichita, head for O'Malley's Irish Bar, which always throws a great St. Paddy's Day party.  

Kick off your month in Covington at the Bonded Spirit Bluegrass Festival (March 2) before heading over to Lexington for its Comic and Toy Convention on March 7-10. Louisville Zoo's enchanting Wild Lights lantern festival returns on March 23, and will be captivating visitors once again with a staggering array of handcrafted silk-covered lanterns inspired by Chinese myths and legends. 

March in the Big Easy caters to literary enthusiasts with the New Orleans Book Festival at Tulane University on March 14-16, along with the Saints + Sinners Literary Festival (March 22-24) and the Tennessee Williams New Orleans Literary Festival (March 20-24). Experience the spirited celebration of St. Patrick's Day in New Orleans' Irish Channel neighborhood with their beloved parade on March 16. Then, savor some of the state's signature flavors at the Amite Oyster Festival (March 15-17) and the Louisiana Crawfish Festival in Chalmette (March 21-24). 

Kick off your month at the city of Westbrook's Winterfest on March 2 or the Chocolate Festival in Freeport (March 2). Then, make your way to the 40th Annual Maine Maple Sunday Weekend on March 23-24, where participating sugarhouses offer syrup samples and demonstrations on crafting the divine pancake nectar. Naturally, Rí Rá Irish Pub in Portland will be the place to be for all your green-kissed St. Patrick's Day fun. 

Begin the month with foodie delights at Annapolis Restaurant Week (runs through March 3), which will once again showcase the city's best eateries. On the coast, indulge in cinematic treasures at the Ocean City Film Festival (March 7-10). Then, raise a pint at the Open Gate Guinness Brewery in Baltimore as it launches a month's worth of Irish-themed festivities (various dates March 1-24). Cap off March with the celebration of Maryland Day on March 25, commemorating the state's founding with a plethora of great events statewide.

Boston shines during St. Patrick's Day celebrations, with Dropkick Murphys playing four consecutive nights (March 14-17) and the city's beloved signature parade marching through South Boston on the big day itself. Explore artistic talents at the 28th Annual Regional High School Art Show, which will run through March 17. Then, later in March, immerse yourself in innovative cinema at the Boston Underground Film Festival, showcasing experimental and boundary-pushing films (March 20-24).

Experience the enchanting return of Butterflies are Blooming at Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park in Grand Rapids on March 1 (runs through April), boasting thousands of tropical butterflies fluttering freely in the conservatory. Then, head to St. Joseph for the whimsical March Mannequins event (March 8-10), which will see downtown storefronts filled with locals being perfectly still under a "Musicians & Bands" theme. In the town of Clare, St. Paddy's Day will be celebrated with gusto during their Irish Festival (March 14-17) and then why not finish your month off in Ann Arbor at the 62nd Ann Arbor Film Festival (March 26-31). 

Indulge in warming bock beer, savory sausages and live tunes at Schell's Brewery's annual Bockfest in Ulm on March 2. Then, celebrate St. Patrick's Day with lively parades in both St. Paul and Minneapolis on March 16, or head for the Minneapolis Convention Center for the 90th Annual Boating Northwest Sportshow (March 14-17). Later in March, explore the Women in Science event at the Bakken Museum in Minneapolis on March 23 or head to Rochester for the Rochester Thaw Music Festival. 

Vicksburg will clink glasses to celebrate the 130th anniversary of the first bottling of Coca-Cola at the Biedenharn Candy Company on March 11, a day that will kick off a week-long party full of both nostalgic and interactive events all focusing on the city's connection to the legendary soda pop. Then, celebrate St. Patrick's Day in Biloxi at the city's annual parade on March 16, while Jackson's one-of-a-kind Hal's St. Paddy's Parade & Festival will delight the crowds on March 23. Gulfport comes alive with the Unity Festival on March 16, featuring crafts, children's carnival food vendors and lively music.

March Madness gets an early start in "MO" as both the Men's & Women's Big XII Championship Tournaments will tip-off in Kansas City between March 7-16. St. Louis will paint the town green again with St. Patrick's Day parades downtown on March 16 and in the locally-loved Dogtown neighborhood on March 17 (make sure to grab some toasted raviolis for the after party). Branson hosts the 17th Annual Elvis Festival from March 15-17, featuring top-notch impersonators and more. 

Experience the pinnacle of Western Art at Great Falls' annual Western Art Week from March 13-17, where the city transforms into the capital of the Western Art world. Join the spirited celebration of St. Patrick's Day in Butte on March 17, where the town's vibrant Irish community hosts a proper shindig. Later in March, witness the awe-inspiring annual migration of snow geese and tundra geese at the Wild Wings Choteau event in Choteau from March 22-24. 

Ensure you're in the Cornhusker State's biggest city for the 19th Annual Omaha Film Festival (runs through March 3), where cinephiles can revel in a diverse array of independent films, many exclusive to the region. Meanwhile, in Lincoln, don't miss the National Antique Tractor Pullers Association Championship from March 22-23, where vintage farming machinery takes center stage in thrilling competitions. All month long will be a good time to swing by Kearney, as the epic annual Sandhill Crane migration continues throughout March. 

Rev your engines for an adrenaline-fueled Spring NASCAR Weekend at the Las Vegas Motor Speedway from March 1-3, featuring the thrilling Pennzoil 400 alongside two other exciting races. Alternatively, kick off March with cowboy flair at the Winnemucca Ranch Hand Rodeo Weekend (runs through March 3), offering a whole lot of Western events and family fun. On the Las Vegas Strip, catch performances by Adele, Bruce Springsteen, Chicago, New Edition, Miranda Lambert, 311, Bret Michaels and many more. This is to say nothing of all the fun on the Strip for March Madness and St. Patrick's Day—and if you're wondering, O'Shea's is still the king of the hill on March 17. 

Experience the thrill of the Hannes Schneider Meister Cup at Cranmore Mountain Resort in North Conway on March 8-10, a special ski competition anchoring a weekend of festivities including vintage ski wear shows, ice carving and fun entertainment. Embrace New Hampshire's maple syrup tradition during Maple Weekend on March 16-17, where charming sugar houses open their doors for tours and tastings. Join Manchester's vibrant St. Patrick's Day parade on March 24, celebrating Irish culture with joyously green festivities. 

Start March envisioning warmer days at the Progressive Insurance Atlantic City Boat Show (through March 3) or browsing unique treasures at the 26th annual Cranbury Craft Show (March 2-3). Then, indulge your taste buds during Jersey City's Restaurant Week (March 2-16), featuring foodie delights from the city's diverse eateries. Finally, make your way to the Cape May County Park and Zoo on March 29 for the start of Easter EGGStravaganZOO, an event that features all sorts of family fun. 

For a late winter pick-me-up, head to the National Fiery Foods & BBQ Show at Sandia Casino in Albuquerque from March 1-3, where you can explore and taste a variety of zingy seasonings and sauces. Meanwhile, Las Cruces celebrates its 24th Annual Cowboy Days that same weekend, highlighting New Mexico's rich ranching heritage with live history demonstrations and tasty bites. Later in the month, Santa Fe will hold its monthly Art Walk on March 8 and Las Cruces will host its annual Art Fair on March 23-24. 

Don't miss the New York International Children's Film Festival, a highlight for families in the Big Apple, running from March 2-17. Upstate, Buffalo will host not one, but two lively parades for St. Paddy's Day. On March 16, join the 29th Annual Old Neighborhood St. Patrick’s Day Parade, which will serve as a warm-up for the city's official main parade on March 17. Next door, the Rochester Wine & Chocolate Festival (March 9) will feature an array of regional wines paired with mouthwatering chocolates and cheeses. Last but certainly not least, New York City will once again hold its legendary St. Patrick's Day parade on March 16, the oldest and largest of its kind in the world. 

Greensboro welcomes the excitement of the Women's ACC Basketball Tournament (March 6-10) while in Raleigh-Durham, you'll be able to immerse yourself in the beauty of floral artistry at the North Carolina Museum of Art's Art in Bloom event from March 13-17. In Hickory, the Catawba Valley Pottery & Antiques Festival will take place on March 22-23 while over in Wilmington, the city will play host to the first-ever Feast Wilmington (March 22-24) festival, which will feature tasty food & brews. 

Start March in Fargo with the 59th Annual Red River Valley Sportsmen's Boat, Camping & Vacation Show (through March 3). Meanwhile, in Grand Forks, immerse yourself in global cultures at the 62nd Annual Feast of Nations (March 23). Also later in the month, film enthusiasts will want to flock to Fargo for the Fargo Film Festival (March 19-23), showcasing cinematic gems at the city's iconic Art Deco theater. 

In Columbus, athletes worldwide converge for Arnold Fest (through March 3), a unique sporting extravaganza founded by Arnold Schwarzenegger featuring over 70 competitions. Beer enthusiasts in Cincinnati will welcome spring with the 32nd Annual Sonder Brewing Bockfest (March 1-3). Experience bodacious tunes at Wilmington's Industrial Strength Bluegrass Festival (March 21-23), while over in Dublin, Ohio's premier St. Patrick's Day celebration will kick off on March 9 with a "grand, green" parade and then continue with events like the Irish fairy door trail and a pub crawl later in the month.  

Start March off right at Oklahoma's biggest hunting and fishing expo, the Backwoods Expo (March 1-3). Alternatively, enjoy compelling cinema at the OKCine Latino Film Festival in Oklahoma City (March 23-24). Don't miss the festive spirit of the Stockyards City St. Patrick's Day Parade in OKC on March 16, the city's finest annual green party. 

Start your month by savoring some great beer at the She-Brew Festival (March 10), which spotlights the finest female-brewed beers and ciders in the Pacific Northwest. Then, immerse yourself in melodies at Milwaukie's Winter Music Festival on March 9. Along the coast, don't miss the South Coast Clambake Music Festival in North Bend (March 8-10), boasting diverse music genres for all tastes. Later in the month, join the Spring Whale Watch starting March 23, where volunteers assist in spotting majestic whales along the coast. 

Step into spring early at the PHS Philadelphia Flower Show (March 2-10), the country's grandest floral event, featuring enchanting gardens and insights into horticulture. Meanwhile, Harrisburg hosts its Ice & Fire Festival on March 2, boasting over 50 dazzling ice sculptures, cool ice slides and warming fire pits. Delight your taste buds at East Passyunk Avenue's Restaurant Week in Philadelphia, running through March 8, showcasing the culinary prowess of this vibrant foodie hub. And when it comes to St. Patrick's Day, Pittsburgh will roll out the green carpet with its famed parade on March 16 and various events across dozens of neighborhoods.  

Join the crowds for a delectable journey along Newport's charming Thames Street during the Newport Winter Foodies Strolls, happening every Friday and Saturday evening till month's end. And also don't miss the vibrant St. Patrick's Day Parade on March 16, adding a touch of Irish cheer to the city’s festivities. Meanwhile, mark your calendar for Providence's St. Paddy's parade on March 9, promising another dose of spirited celebration. 

Step into the culinary haven of Charleston during its renowned Charleston Wine + Food Festival (March 6-10), showcasing an array of delectable offerings from various culinary genres. Experience the vibrant Black Expo in Charleston on March 6-9, or swing your hips at the Shag Dancing National Championships in Myrtle Beach from March 7-9. Cap off the month with a gastronomic journey at the Hilton Head Wine & Food Festival, taking place from March 24-30.

Indulge in the Mountain West Whiskey Festival in Rapid City on March 9, which celebrates the finest spirits from the region. Then delve into the rich cultural tapestry of the area's German heritage at Schmeckfest in Freeman on March 15-16, which this year includes a live performance of Shrek the Musical. Finally, join the festivities at the annual Black Hills Winter Festival, which graces Hill City on March 17-18, featuring an enchanting igloo bar, live tunes, mulled wine and a plethora of engaging activities.

Memphis beckons with its flavorful offerings during Black Restaurant Week from March 5-11, showcasing the city's diverse culinary scene. For sports enthusiasts, set your sights on Bridgestone Arena in Nashville, where the Men's SEC Basketball Tournament will captivate from March 13-17. Meanwhile, Knoxville invites families to join the festivities at Shamrock Fest on March 17, promising a day filled with live Irish music, Irish dancing, whiskey, food and face painting!

March in Texas brings two monumental events: South by Southwest and the Houston Livestock Show & Rodeo. From March 8-16, South by Southwest in Austin converges tech, film, comedy and music, showcasing diverse talents and innovative ideas. Meanwhile, the Houston Livestock & Rodeo Show gallops through March 17 with riveting rodeo spectacles, a colorful parade and mouthwatering barbecue competitions. Don't miss the carnival thrills and star-studded concerts featuring 50 Cent, Eric Church and Zac Brown Band (amongst others), as well as captivating Cirque du Soleil performances.

Moab welcomes cycling enthusiasts to the Skinny Tire Festival from March 9-12, offering scenic rides through breathtaking landscapes. Then embark on a vibrant journey as the renowned Festival of Colors paints Spanish Fork with joy on March 30-31. Dive into the rhythm of interactive dance, pulsating beats from DJs and soulful melodies by live Mantra Bands amidst kaleidoscopic bursts of colorful powder. 

Make sure to head to Stratton on March 16 for the 12th Annual 24 Hours of Stratton, a special event that allows skiers to ride Stratton all night long under lighted trails until dawn. Those with a sweet tooth will want to make sure they take advantage of Vermont's Spring Maple Open House Weekend (March 23-24), which will see maple syrup enjoyed at the source all over the Green Mountain State. 

Hurry to Richmond by March 3 for a delightful immersion into the world of wine at the Virginia Wine Expo. Explore vintages from the Old Dominion, Argentina and Napa while savoring exquisite cuisine. Later in March, delve into literary delights at the annual Virginia Festival of the Book (March 20-24), offering engaging discussions and presentations.

March bursts into action with Emerald City Comic Con, a four-day extravaganza of pop culture, comics and gaming joy, boasting star appearances including Elijah Wood, Chris Evans, Christina Ricci and Jodie Whittaker (runs until March 4). Festal at Seattle Center continues its celebration of global cultures, spotlighting Irish culture on March 16-17 and French-speaking cultures on March 24. Prepare for laughter as the Moisture Festival returns to Seattle on March 21, promising a showcase of brilliant performances spanning diverse disciplines.

March kicks off in style with Celtic Calling in Charleston (until March 3), which immerses you in Celtic culture through dance, music, athletic displays and educational experiences, perfectly setting the stage for St. Paddy's Day. And outdoor enthusiasts won't want to miss the annual WV Fishing, Hunting & Outdoor Sports Show in Morgantown on March 2-3. Then, keep the St. Patrick's Day spirit alive at Ireland's Irish Spring Festival (March 10-19) with road bowling, Irish jigs and quirky "snake" chasing.

For a unique outdoor experience, head to Cable for the World's Longest Weenie Roast (March 1-3), where snowmobile runs, ice drags and live music accompany the spectacle of the world's longest line of hot dog cookers over a single fire. Wrap up your month with a visit to Glenna Farms in Amery for MapleFest 2024 (March 23-24), offering free pancakes, giveaways and "sap to syrup" tours.

In Jackson Hole, the city will host the Jackson Hole Food and Wine's annual Winter Fest on March 7-9 and the Jackson Hole Gallery Association Third Thursday Art Walk on March 21. In Cheyenne, the 4th Annual Laramie County Sportsman's Expo will take place on March 15-17 and the Outlaw Saloon will hold its St. Patrick's Day party on March 16.