March is the harbinger of spring and festivities. After all the New Year exuberance and Valentine’s butterflies, March ushers in a festive environment. It is one of the most vibrant months of the year. Whether you are looking for a flamboyant street-style party or wanting to soak in the religious vibe, this list of March festivals will give you the right dose of inspiration to travel.
Popular March Festivals You Must Attend in 2024
Holi
When: 25th March
Where: India
You might have seen the famous picture of color powder being thrown in the air. This is an iconic scene from the biggest Indian festival, Holi, observed on the full moon day in the Hindu month of Phalguna. It stems from a centuries-old story. Mythology says that Prahlada, a devotee of Lord Vishnu, was protected by the divine deity when Holika, his cruel aunt, attempted to burn him in a pyre. Hence, Holi marks the triumph of good over evil. This iconic Hindu festival is a two-day affair; the first day begins with Holika Dahan, when people gather around bonfires to pray and sing, followed by the second day of fun and excitement. People use water balloons and guns to spray each other. In the evening, traditional sweets are prepared, and people share gifts.
Reykjavik Food Festival
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When: 6th March – 10th March
Where: Iceland
Bored of eating the same food every day? Let your rumbling stomach find peace at the Reykjavik Food Festival. Reykjavik, the capital of Iceland, is famous for its vibrant culinary scene and unspoiled produce. The festival focuses on highlighting Icelandic cuisine, emphasizing fresh, local, and seasonal ingredients. Chefs from across the globe come to showcase their skills. Many participating restaurants offer special tasting menus, allowing the guests to savor a variety of delicious dishes in a beautiful setting. Additionally, there are culinary events such as food demonstrations, workshops, and talks to help you dive deeper. No matter your culinary preferences, Reykjavik’s food scene is sure to tantalize your taste buds.
Las Fallas
When: 15th March – 19th March
Where: Spain
A 5-day celebration and commemoration of Saint Joseph, Las Fallas is celebrated with great pomp and show. There are a multitude of parades and processions featuring lively marches, fireworks, and pyrotechnic displays. Locals wear regional and traditional dresses to represent their culture. On the last day, the fallas (denoting the political, social, and satirical themes and have been on display for the last few days) are burnt in a symbolic gesture of purification and renewal.
Mendoza Grape Harvest Festival
Image Credit: greatwinecapitals.com
When: 5th March – 6th March
Where: Argentina
Mendoza Grape Harvest Festival is one of the spectacular festivals in March around the world for wine lovers and others. Held annually in Mendoza, Argentina’s wine hub, the festival dates back to the 17th century. Today, it is a cocktail of events catering to diverse interests. Explore the scenic vineyards and taste the exotic wines. The extravaganza continues with live music, dazzling performances, beauty contests, and artistic exhibitions. So, raise a glass of wine and join the festive spirit of the Mendoza Grape Harvest Festival!
St Patrick’s Day
When: 17th March
Where: Ireland
A day dedicated to the foremost and most respectable patron in Ireland, St Patrick’s Day has evolved into a grand celebration of Irish culture and heritage. One of the religious festivals in March, this day pays tribute to the legacy of Saint Patrick. Everything appears in lush green — people deck themselves in green attire, homes and streets blossom with green decorations, and even food transforms into vibrant shades of green — as a symbolic way to show respect towards the home country. Besides that, there are marching bands, cultural performances, and a spread of buffet, So tap your feet into the amazing music and soak in the infectious energy.
Starkbierzeit Festival
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When: 15th March – 6th April
Where: Germany
Also called the Strong Beer Festival, the Starkbierzeit Festival is one of the best times to visit Germany. Celebrated in Munich across different cafes, bars, and halls, this festival is a long month of boozing and having incessant fun. Its origin dates back to the 17th century; Paulaner monks needed nourishment during Lent fasting, so they brewed a particularly strong, high-calorie beer called Salvator — and that worked for them. Today, during this time, the city thrives on Bavarian music and creates a jovial atmosphere. You can witness the ceremonial tapping of the first barrel, go for beer-tasting tours, and enjoy theatrical performances.
Spring Equinox
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When: 20th March
Where: Mexico
Spring Equinox, meaning both day and night are equal, is an occurrence that is both religiously and astronomically significant. It marks new beginnings and motivations for good intentions. Although the equinox is a global phenomenon, there are some incredible sites where you can experience it. Mexico celebrates the Spring Equinox with vibrant festivities at two iconic archaeological sites: Chichen Itza in the Yucatán Peninsula and Teotihuacán near Mexico City. Each location offers a unique and awe-inspiring experience. There are traditional dances, local artisans showcasing their crafts, and rituals taking place at pyramids.
Jinhae Cherry Blossom Festival
When: 25th March – 5th April
Where: South Korea
March festivals are beautiful, also because it is springtime. One of the best ways to revel in the glory of spring is to participate in the Jinhae Cherry Blossom Festival. Millions of people flock to Jinhae to watch and admire this once-in-a-lifetime visual. There are over 400,000 cherry blossoms serenading the city. The sight of this wonderland is straight out of a fiction book. In the sea of pink, do visit the Gyeonghwa Station, Yeojwacheon Stream, and Jinhae Naval Base.
Nyepi Day
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When: 11th-12th March
Where: Bali
Nyepi Day is a Balinese Hindu festival that marks the beginning of the New Year. It is a “Day of Silence”— when the island observes a break. Daily activities, such as transport and official work, are prohibited. Even the airport does not operate on this day. Locals remain in their homes, meditate and relax. The day before Nyepi, there is a festival called Melasti. During Melasti, Balinese Hindus go to the beach to cleanse themselves and their belongings in the ocean. The date of Nyepi Day changes every year, so plan well.
Keukenhof Gardens Tulip Festival
When: 21st March- 12th May
Where: Amsterdam
The most beautiful and the largest garden in the world, Keukenhof Gardens is home to over 7 million flowers. Also called the Garden of Europe, it was opened in 1949. Today, it is ablaze with rows of vibrant tulips. These flowers are seeded in the autumn, and they bloom in the spring, making it an ideal time for Tulip Festival. There are also other pavilions of hyacinths, daffodils, and other flowers. Visitors to the Tulip Festival can enjoy a variety of activities, including strolling through the gardens, taking boat tours through the tulip fields, and attending workshops on flowers. There are also restaurants and cafes on-site for a short break.
SXSW Festival
When: 8th -16th March
Where: USA
South by Southwest (SXSW) is an annual event incorporating the essence and innovation of music, film, and media. This grand event, attended by millions of people from across the globe every year, has been held in Austin, Texas, since 1987. In this immersive experience, there is the biggest music event and thousands of acts performed by emerging and established artists. It also organises a film festival where independent films, documentaries, and international films are premiered and awarded. Besides maintaining the entertainment quotient, people can also check out the latest technology and exhibitions. So, the festival is an all-inclusive platform for talents from across the globe to unite and connect.
Vinterfestuka
Image Credit: visitnarvik.com
When: 8th -17th March
Where: Norway
Started in 1956, Vinterfestuka, also called the Narvik Winter Festival (Winter Festival Week), is a buzzing cultural festival held annually. It blends the cultural aspects of the region with entertainment. Streets are dotted with colorful parades and community events. The festival organizes various concerts, theatrical shows, and performances featuring local and international artists. What about the ‘winter’? Well, there are also polar activities, such as skiing and snowboarding. Do take a break and savor local cuisine.
Kakku Pagoda Festival
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When: 20th – 22nd March
Where: Myanmar
A 3-day harvest festival in Mynamar, Kakku Pagoda Festival, is celebrated by the Pa’O tribe. They are the ethnic groups hailing from the Shan State. In the Kakku Pagoda festival, they come together to celebrate the prosperity of a good harvest and then donate a portion as gratitude. The Kakku Pagoda is a holy place and a historic site spread over hundreds of acres. The pagoda complex is known for its remarkable collection of more than 2,000 stupas that date back to the 17th century. When you visit this festival, make sure to tick off the maximum pagodas and offer flowers.
Ides of March
When: 15th March
Where: Rome
A day that remains etched in the history of the Roman calendar, the Ides of March marks the assassination of Julius Caesar. Although this day was considered unlucky for many centuries, today, the festival takes a modern form. It is not a public holiday, but people from around the world celebrate it as it is also the onset of spring. If you are new to this place, read the original Shakespeare classic, enjoy a Roman-themed dinner, and play group games.
Paro Tshechu
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When: 21st – 25th March
Where: Bhutan
To immerse in the Bhutanese authentic traditions, visit during Paro Tshechu celebrations. Tsechus are celebrated to honor Guru Rinpoche (Padmasambhava), the saint who introduced Buddhism to Bhutan in the 8th century. The dances performed during the Tsechu depict stories from Buddhist teachings and have both religious and cultural significance. In this five-day festival of ceremonies and processions, each day there is arrangement of unique ceremonies and events. The highlight of this zesty March festival is the colorful masked dances by monks and locals. On the last day, a large thongdrel (meaning ‘liberation by sight’) is unfurled. It is believed that it helps us to get rid of sin.
Cheltenham Festival
Image Credit: visitcheltenham.com
When: 12th – 15th March
Where: UK
A famous horse racing event, Cheltenham Festival is a 4-day event held in March. The first day is Champion Day, the second is dedicated to fashion and style, the third is St. Patrick’s Thursday, and the last day is Gold Cup Day. In its lively atmosphere, attendees enjoy a range of traditions, fashion shows, and top-quality horse races. Beyond the nail-biting competition, it’s a social event, a chance to dress up, enjoy delicious food and drinks, and soak up the electrifying atmosphere.
FAQs
1. Are there any festivals in March?
There are many festivals in March worldwide. Holi in India, Las Fallas in Spain, Reykjavik Food Festival in Iceland, and Jinhae Cherry Blossom Festival in South Korea are some of the popular March festivals.
2. Which festival is to be celebrated on 25th March 2024?
Holi is to be observed on 25th March 2024.
3. Which are the best festivals in March in Asia?
Nyepi in Bali, Holi in India, and Paro Tshechu in Bhutan are the best Asian festivals in March.
4. Which are the best festivals in March in America?
Some fantastic USA festivals in March are SXSW (South by Southwest), Spring Equinox, Cherry Blossom Festival, and Miami Music Week. It is wise to check the dates beforehand.
5. Which is the biggest festival in March?
One of the biggest festivals in March is Holi. It is organized throughout India and Nepal. Indians in different corners of the world also throw Holi parties where locals and foreigners gather to play with colors.
6. Which festival is in March 2024 in Europe?
Las Fallas (Spain), Starkbierzeit Festival (Germany), Ides of March (Rome), and St. Patrick’s Day (Ireland) are some of the biggest European festivals in March.
7. Are there any festivals in March in Malaysia?
March in Malaysia is a vibrant month filled with cultural and exciting festivities. Some of the best festivals in March 2024 in Malaysia are Spring Equinox, International Kite Festival, World Theatre Day, and Earth Hour.
Conclusion
Regardless of where you are and what your interests are, March festivals invite you to immerse in jubilation. From 1-day celebration to week-long revelry, there are numerous ways to have a blast in the springtime. It’s all about celebrating a vibrant culture, a rich history, and warmth of life.
