Best Things to Do in March
March is a wonderful time to get out and explore, and this month’s roundup of events in California, Florida, Arizona, and Washington is filled with reasons to plan a spring getaway. From sunny desert festivals and exciting sports matchups to stylish fashion showcases and food-focused celebrations, each destination offers its own way to enjoy the season. These carefully selected events highlight the local culture, energy, and charm that make every trip feel special. With pleasant weather and a calendar packed with things to do, March is ideal for creating new memories and soaking up the spirit of these vibrant destinations. Wherever your travels take you, something exciting is waiting just outside your door.
Sun, Style, and Seasonal Fun in California
California comes alive in March with a mix of desert glamour, outdoor gatherings, and culture-filled celebrations across Palm Springs, Palm Desert, and Big Bear. The season brings comfortable weather and a lively calendar packed with art shows, fashion moments, food festivals, and sporting excitement. These events showcase the region’s creative spirit and relaxed luxury, making it easy to pair sightseeing with memorable local experiences. From stylish desert streets to mountain-town charm, California’s spring events add energy and color to every getaway.
BNP Paribas Open
Mar 01 – 15, 2026
Indian Wells, CA
Known as the “fifth Grand Slam,” the BNP Paribas Open turns Indian Wells into a global tennis hotspot each spring, drawing the biggest names from the ATP and WTA tours. Fans can enjoy world-class matches, vibrant fan zones, luxury dining, and a festival-like atmosphere set against the stunning desert backdrop. The energy on and off the court makes this tournament one of the most exciting sporting events in California. Booking a vacation rental in Arizona gives you a comfortable home base to relax between match days while staying close to the action.
Fashion Week El Paseo
Mar 13 – 18, 2026
Palm Desert, CA
Fashion Week El Paseo transforms Palm Desert into a glamorous style destination filled with runway shows, designer showcases, and chic pop-up experiences. The event features collections from both rising designers and well-known fashion labels, creating a dynamic mix of trendsetting fashion and desert sophistication. Beauty lounges, shopping events, and social gatherings add to the excitement throughout the week. It is a must-see celebration of creativity and luxury that brings fresh energy to the Coachella Valley each spring.
Palm Desert Food & Wine Festival
Mar 19 – 22, 2026
Palm Desert, CA
The Palm Desert Food & Wine Festival brings together top chefs, celebrated winemakers, and craft spirits for a weekend of unforgettable flavors in the heart of the Coachella Valley. Guests can enjoy gourmet tastings, live cooking demonstrations, and curated pairings set against the beautiful desert backdrop. The festival creates a lively social atmosphere where food lovers can sample signature dishes while learning from culinary experts. It is a delicious way to experience Palm Desert’s vibrant dining scene while soaking in the energy of a premier springtime event.
Celebrate Spring – Florida’s March Highlights
March marks a lively time to explore Florida, where warm weather and vibrant events set the stage for memorable getaways. From fan-favorite conventions and classic fair fun around Orlando to flavorful festival experiences along the Gulf Coast, the Sunshine State offers something for every traveler this season. With plenty of sunshine and evenings that invite exploration, it’s the perfect month to enjoy local culture and festivities with friends and family. These featured Florida events showcase the energy, diversity, and spirit that make spring travel here truly special.
Central Florida Fair
Feb 26 – Mar 08, 2026
Orlando, FL
The Central Florida Fair brings classic fairground fun with thrilling rides, live entertainment, livestock exhibits, and family-friendly attractions. Food vendors line the midway with favorites ranging from funnel cakes to savory festival bites. Special themed days and competitions add variety across the event schedule. A vacation rental near Orlando or Davenport makes it easy to enjoy the fair while returning to a comfortable home base each night.
Mac & Cheese Festival
Mar 15, 2026
Destin, FL
The Mac and Cheese Festival celebrates one of America’s favorite comfort foods with creative recipes from local chefs and restaurants. Guests sample classic blends and bold new flavors while enjoying live music and outdoor entertainment. The relaxed, food-forward atmosphere draws visitors from across Central Florida for a fun afternoon outing. Booking a vacation rental near Orlando or Davenport adds flexibility for dining plans and keeps the festival close to your stay.
MegaCon Orlando
Mar 19 – 22, 2026
Orlando, FL
MegaCon Orlando fills the Orange County Convention Center with celebrity guests, comic creators, gaming zones, cosplay showcases, and massive fan experiences. Thousands of visitors arrive for panels, photo ops, and immersive pop culture exhibits that run all weekend long. The energy spreads across the city with themed parties and after-hours events nearby. Staying in a vacation rental near Orlando or Davenport keeps you close to the action while offering space to relax after full convention days.
Spring Energy Takes Over Arizona
March brings a fresh wave of sunshine and celebration, as cities and desert towns fill their calendars with experiences that capture the spirit of the season. From iconic sports traditions to outdoor festivals and lively community gatherings, the events in Arizona in March create the perfect reason to travel and explore. Warm days, cool evenings, and a festive atmosphere make every outing feel like part of a larger celebration. These standout moments reflect Arizona’s vibrant culture, love for the outdoors, and welcoming springtime energy.
Cactus League Spring Training
Feb 27 – Mar 24, 2026
Across Arizona
Baseball season arrives early in Arizona with Cactus League Spring Training, turning the Valley into a hub for sports fans and spring travelers alike. Dozens of games are played across the region, giving visitors the chance to catch preseason action in an easygoing outdoor setting. The atmosphere blends competition with sunshine and a relaxed vacation feel. Staying near the stadiums with vacation rentals in Arizona makes it simple to enjoy game days and unwind afterward.
McDowell Mountain Music Festival
Mar 06 – 07, 2026
Phoenix, AZ
Music lovers gather each spring for the McDowell Mountain Music Festival, where open-air performances and desert scenery create a memorable weekend experience. The event showcases a mix of well-known performers and emerging artists across several stages. Food vendors and interactive spaces add to the festive mood, making it more than just a concert series. It’s a celebration of sound, community, and Arizona’s outdoor lifestyle.
Ostrich Festival
Mar 13 – 15 and 20 – 22, 2026
Chandler, AZ
Chandler’s Ostrich Festival delivers a colorful mix of entertainment, rides, and signature races that have made it a regional favorite for generations. The event fills the fairgrounds with music, games, and crowd-pleasing attractions that welcome visitors of all ages. Its lively atmosphere reflects the playful side of Arizona’s spring season. Guests leave with both photos and memories from one of the state’s most distinctive festivals.
Springtime Events in Washington’s Mountain & Lake Towns
Washington welcomes spring with lively gatherings that bring energy to its alpine villages and lakeside communities. Events near Leavenworth and Lake Chelan combine outdoor fun, regional flavors, and picture-perfect scenery that draw travelers from across the state. Each celebration offers a chance to experience the area’s personality while enjoying longer days and changing seasons. These moments create an inviting backdrop for a peaceful yet event-filled escape in one of Washington’s most beautiful regions.
Ski Hill Leavenworth
March, 2026
Leavenworth, WA
March brings prime spring skiing conditions to Ski Hill Leavenworth, where blue skies and soft snow create a relaxed mountain experience. The community-focused ski area is known for its approachable slopes and welcoming vibe, making it a favorite for families and casual skiers. Longer days mean more time on the hill and more time to enjoy the village’s Bavarian-style shops and dining. Booking a nearby vacation rental in Leavenworth adds convenience and comfort after hours spent outdoors. It’s an easy way to mix snowy fun with village charm.
Winthrop Balloon Festival
Mar 06 – 08, 2026
Winthrop, WA
The Winthrop Balloon Festival transforms the Methow Valley into a canvas of color as hot air balloons rise above snow-covered peaks each March. Morning ascensions and evening glow shows create a festive atmosphere that attracts travelers from across the state. The surrounding mountain scenery makes every launch feel like a postcard moment. A stay near Winthrop or along the route to Leavenworth allows visitors to enjoy the event while exploring charming downtown streets and winter trails. It’s a scenic reason to plan a mountain escape during early spring.
Taste Washington
Mar 21 – 22, 2026
Seattle, WA
Taste Washington celebrates the state’s vibrant food and wine scene with chef-driven tastings, winery showcases, and curated culinary events each March. The festival draws food lovers eager to sample regional flavors and learn from industry experts. Many travelers extend their trip beyond the city, pairing the festival with quieter stays in Washington’s mountain and lake destinations. Choosing lodging near Leavenworth or Lake Chelan offers a peaceful contrast to the bustling festival atmosphere. It’s an ideal blend of gourmet experiences and scenic relaxation.