With the calendar flipping from February to March, the days are getting longer and the weather is starting to warm up. That means that there’s a lot to look forward to in the coming month.
While much of the month might still technically be winter, many of the best things to do in New York in March are clearly looking ahead to the warmer days of spring.
Throughout the state, there are many fantastic reasons to travel around the state in the coming month.
Here are 9 of the best things to do in March in New York.
(Article updated February 14, 2023, for events in March 2023.)
Snommegang International Beer Festival in Oneonta – March 4
Craft beer lovers won’t want to miss the Snommegang International Beer Festival being held in downtown Oneonta, New York this March.
Held in cooperation with Brewery Ommegang, this beer festival will feature 20 different breweries and cideries from around the region, all of which will be pouring samples throughout the day.
For more information and to get tickets for one of the two sessions, visit the event’s website.
The Adirondack Backcountry Ski Festival in Keene Valley – March 10-13
Looking for a bit of adventure?
Head into northern New York for the annual Adirondack Backcountry Ski Festival. In addition to many great backcountry skiing opportunities, the festival will feature instructional clinics, demos, tours, and guest athletes.
For more information, visit Mountaineer.com.
Holiday Valley’s Winter Carnival in Ellicottville – March 11-12
If you are looking to enjoy a bit more of winter, head to southwestern New York for Holiday Valley’s Winter Carnival.
This annual event at one of Ellicottville’s ski resorts traditionally features many fun events including a pancake breakfast, a sidewalk sale, demonstrations, and much more. Of course, there’s also lots of great skiing and snowboarding.
Find out more here.
Sugaring Off Sundays in Cooperstown – March 12, 19, 26 and April 2
After not hosting the event for several years, the Farmers’ Museum in Cooperstown will once again be offering sugaring demonstrations on most Sundays in March. These demonstrations offer the chance to see the process of making maple syrup and other similar products.
You’ll also be able to see historical demonstrations, taste maple products, and watch workers in the blacksmith shop.
For more information, visit the museum’s website.
St. Patrick’s Day Parade in New York City – March 17
The New York City St. Patrick’s Day Parade, the world’s oldest and largest St. Patrick’s Day Parade, will be held on Thursday, March 17.
This parade travels 33 blocks down 5th Avenue and consists of many great marching bands and representatives from many Irish groups from around the city.
If you can’t make it out to the parade, it will also be live-streamed on NBCNewYork.com.
Find out more on the parade’s website.
NCAA March Madness Basketball in Albany – March 17 and 19
The NCAA men’s basketball tournament, known to many as March Madness, will be making a stop in Albany, New York this March.
On March 17 and 19, first and second-round games will be played at the MVP Arena. These games will help to narrow the field from 64 to 16, and there is sure to be a lot of exciting action happening on the court.
For more information, visit the MVP Arena’s website.
Maple Syrup Festival at the Genesee County Village and Museum – March 18-19, 25-26
If you love maple syrup, you won’t want to miss the Maple Syrup Festival at the Genesee Country Village and Museum, the largest living history museum in New York.
During the event, visitors will have a chance to learn how maple trees are tapped and how syrup is made from the trees. There will be demonstrations, talks about the process, Native American tales, treats, and much more.
For more information, visit the museum’s website.
Winter Weekends at the Storm King Art Center – Saturdays and Sundays through March 19
Storm King Art Center is a 500-acre outdoor art gallery in the Hudson Valley that is normally closed for the winter. However, they are open to the public for special Winter Weekends on Saturdays and Sundays through March 19.
During the weekend, visitors can walk the grounds and have the chance to see the amazing sculptures here under unique circumstances.
For more information, visit their website.
Read more St Patricks Day in New York City
Macy’s Flower Show in New York City – Starts March 26
Flower lovers won’t want to miss the fantastic Macy’s Flower Show in New York City. Held from March 26 through April 10 at Macy’s flagship store in Manhattan, this show will turn the store into a colorful and fragrant wonderland.
In 2023, the show’s theme is “Big Dreams Bloom Here,” and a variety of unique flower displays will be able to be seen during the show.
For more information, visit the store’s website.
Looking for more to do in New York? Check out our favorite things to do in New York in February and some of the best things to do in New York in April.
— Update: 15-03-2023 — cohaitungchi.com found an additional article 13 Things to Do This March in New York State from the website www.iloveny.com for the keyword things to do in new york in march.
Credit: @momothegardenhoe on Instagram
New York State bids farewell to winter and says hello to spring in March with an exciting array of fun activities sure to please everyone. From St. Patrick’s Day and Women’s History Month celebrations to tasty encounters with pure New York maple syrup, amazing chocolate creations, and locally brewed craft beverages, the Empire State is your one-stop-shop for a terrific month!
Masks are encouraged, but optional in most settings per New York State guidelines. Individual businesses or attractions may require mask wearing. Call ahead and check websites and social media to make sure attractions and amenities are open and available.
Commemorate Women’s History Month (Various Regions)
Various Dates
New York State has deep roots to the Women’s Rights Movement, with Seneca Falls being the birthplace of Women’s Suffrage. Explore this rich history and celebrate the achievements of women at various sites from the National Women’s Hall of Fame to Susan B. Anthony Museum & House and the Women's Rights National Historic Park. Connetquot River State Park Preserve in Oakdale is also hosting a series of events honoring the life and art of Lenore “Lee” Krasner, pioneers in science, and women who made many of our achievements in space possible. Varying locations and prices.
Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day (Various Regions)
Various Dates
Credit: Joe Buglewicz/NYC & Co.
Irish eyes will be smiling all across New York State as St. Patrick’s Day is celebrated with a bevy of parades and festivals. On March 17, hundreds of thousands of people will line Fifth Avenue for the New York City’s Saint Patrick’s Day Parade, the oldest and largest St. Patrick’s Day parade in the world. Buffalo’s St. Patrick’s Day Parade, taking place on March 19, draws in crowds to enjoy the procession of Irish dancers, bands, and more. On March 11, Rochester’s St. Patrick’s Day Parade kicks off with the Runnin’ of the Green, a five-mile foot race along the Genesee River. There are also parades taking place in Albany, Syracuse, Montgomery, and Mamaroneck. Watertown goes all out with its weekend-long North Country Goes Green Irish Festival, complete with parade, pageant, beard contest, Shamrock Run, and more! Various locations and dates; free admission.
Orchid Show and Orchids After Dark (Greater Niagara)
March 3-5
Credit: @aliciakwietniewskiphoto on Instagram
Something special is blooming in Buffalo. The popular Orchid Show returns to the Buffalo and Erie County Botanical Gardens, where dozens of hand-picked and award-winning orchid exhibits will be on display. Best of all, visitors can now enjoy the orchid show and displays lit up at night for an even more magical Orchids After Dark experience. Buffalo; regular admission, $15.50 Adults, $14.00 seniors (62+) & students (13+ with ID), $8.50 Kids 3-12, Kids 2 and under are free but must have a ticket, Garden members are free but must have a ticket; Orchids After Dark Admission, adults – $16.50, member adult – $14.50, senior – $15.00, member senior – $13.00, student – $15.00, member student – $13.00, kids 3-12 – $8.50, member kids 3-12 – $8.50; E-tickets are required for all visitors. Walk-ins may be turned away if visitor capacity has been met.
Snommegang Invitational Beer Festival (Central New York)
March 4
Credit: @jencortellini on Instagram
Craft beverage lovers rejoice! After a two-year hiatus, Oneonta’s biggest and best outdoor winter beer festival is returning to Main Street. Enjoy live music from Mountain Jam – An Allman Brothers Tribute along with tasty beverages from more than a dozen participating breweries. New this year is the VIP ticket, which includes an extra hour to sample brews, access to the VIP lounge, and special souvenir items! This is a 21+ only event, and designated driver tickets are available with drinker tickets as an add-on option. Oneonta; $60.15 and $77.24 (VIP).
Mardi Gras Weekend and Winter Carnival at Holiday Valley (Chautauqua-Allegheny)
March 10-12 and March 11-12
Head on over to the storybook Village of Ellicottville to help celebrate one of their most iconic events – Mardi Gras weekend! There will be plenty of live entertainment and fun activities for all, including snow sculptures, a colorful parade, and the Winter Carnival at Holiday Valley, which features costumes, Mardi Gras beads, snow sculptures, an outdoor bar made of snow, and much more! Ellicottville; free admission.
The Chocolate Expo (Long Island)
March 12
Credit: @samuelssweetshop on Instagram
Calling all chocolate lovers! The Chocolate Expo is coming to Hofstra University where dozens of vendors will be dishing out delicious goodies to taste and buy, including baked goods, specialty foods, cheeses, and of course the star of the show: chocolate. Pair your treats with wines, hard ciders, distilled spirits, coffees, teas, and much more! There will also be entertainment and fun activities for all ages. Hempstead; online tickets: $20/adult & $10/child (ages 5-12), children under age 5 free. Tickets purchased at the door: $30/adult & $15/child (ages 5-12). Door ticket availability not guaranteed.
NYS Maple Weekends (Various Regions)
March 18-19 and March 25-26
Join in on a beloved Empire State tradition as more than 180 maple farms open their sugarhouses inviting you to experience the world of pure New York maple syrup, from tapping the trees to enjoying it on a piping hot stack of pancakes. Some maple producers will be demonstrating the making of mouth-watering products, such as maple cream and maple cotton candy, and most will be offering free samples. Many participating farms, like the Ashokan Center in the Catskills, will also have additional activities like a pancake breakfast, guided hike, kids' corner, live entertainment, and more! Various locations and prices; Ashokan Center events taking place March 18-19.
Westchester Spring Home Show (Hudson Valley)
March 18-19
Take your spring cleaning to the next level by giving your home a freshened up look. The Westchester Spring Home Show, taking place at the Westchester County Center in White Plains, serves up an amazing variety of products and services to help you with all your home project needs. From light fixtures to kitchen backsplashes to window fixings to the hottest new paint colors, get inspired at the area’s longest running regional home show. White Plains; $10 adults, kids 12 and under free.
Women’s International Film & Arts Festival (New York City)
March 22-26
Read more 15 Epic Thanksgiving Activities in New York City 2022 (Helpful Local’s Guide)
The Women’s International Film & Arts Festival, the leading international cultural event featuring films, visual and performing arts produced by and about women, is coming back to New York City after a three-year hiatus. Celebrate women’s empowerment and learn something new from innovative film industry leaders with hands-on workshops and lively panel discussions. You’ll meet filmmakers from around the globe and see some of the most dynamic films made by both emerging and established women filmmakers. From red carpet events to networking opportunities, special parties, and a delectable awards brunch, this film festival has it all! New York City; various prices.
Capital Region Flower and Garden Show (Capital-Saratoga)
March 24-26
Credit: @momothegardenhoe on Instagram
Spring will be in the air as one of the first signs of the season in the Capital-Saratoga region returns to Hudson Valley Community College in Troy. Enjoy amazing floral creations and stunning garden displays, seminars and demonstrations, and over 160 flower, garden, and outdoor living themed retail exhibits. Head over to the marketplace to bring home fresh cut flowers, succulents, bulbs, houseplants, airplants, seeds, tropicals, and all your gardening needs, plus apparel, pottery, handmade crafts, and jewelry. Some of New York’s finest wineries, cideries, and distilleries will also be on hand offering tastings. Troy; $12 online (until 3/23/23) and $15 thereafter; door prices are $15, $22 for a two-day pass, $33 for a three-day pass, and children under 10 free.
Bristol Mountain Spring Carnival (Finger Lakes)
March 25-26
Credit: @bristol_mountain on Instagram
Say goodbye to winter as Bristol Mountain sends off ski season in style with their annual spring carnival. Cheer on skiers and snowboarders as they race down the hill to see if they can make it across the 50-foot pond in the popular Slush Cup event. Costumes and spectators are encouraged – a lift ticket or season pass is required to participate, but it’s free to watch! The festivities include an Easter egg hunt, snow tubing, free demos, mouthwatering food, plus arts and crafts for the kids! Canandaigua; free admission; fees for some events.
ISU World Synchronized Skating Championships (Adirondacks)
March 31 – April 1
For the first time, the two-time Olympic village of Lake Placid has been selected to host the ISU World Synchronized Skating Championships. Held since 2000, this annual event organized by the International Skating Union attracts the most elite senior-level synchronized skating teams from around the world. You’re invited to the Olympic Center to watch this exciting competition in person as approximately 26 teams comprised of 500 skaters from over 20 countries compete for the title of World Champion. Lake Placid; $165 – $200.
The Great Upstate Boat Show (Adirondacks)
March 31 – April 2
Credit: Normandin Marketing
Are you ready for warmer weather? Get a head start on summer at the Great Upstate Boat Show, happening at the Adirondack Sports Complex. Explore more than 175 boats on display, and speak with some of the leading boat dealers in the region to find the boat of your dreams. From pontoon boats and ski boats to trailers and boat lifts, get ready for an incredible season on the water! Whether you’re looking to trade in your current boat or are a first-time boat buyer, shop top boat brands at one of the largest boat sales events in New York State. Queensbury; $15.
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— Update: 15-03-2023 — cohaitungchi.com found an additional article St Patricks Day in New York City from the website www.nycinsiderguide.com for the keyword things to do in new york in march.
Where to Tap into the Luck of the Irish in NYC
To some, St Patricks Day in New York City is one of the most serious days of the year – and by serious, I mean serious partying! Whether you are Irish and looking to celebrate your heritage, or just love Irish Pubs and Crawls, NYC has a ton of St. Patrick’s Day Events.
Things to do on St. Patricks Day in NYC range from the famous St. Patricks Day Parade and St. Patrick’s Cathedral to the world’s largest Pub Crawl or more sophisticated “only in NYC.” St. Patricks day is always March 17th, and when it falls on a Sunday, most activities, including the parade are celebrated the day before. Add an event to the St Patricks Day in New York City calendar.
St Patty’s Day Pub Crawl – World’s Largest Pub Crawl
More info: pubcrawls.com
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St. Patrick’s Day Parade
The parade route begins at 44th Street and 5th Ave, goes up 5th Ave, past St. Patrick’s Cathedral at 50th Street, and continues up to 79th Street. More on the St. Patrick’s Day Parade in NYC.
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St Patricks Day in Times Square
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More Things to do in New York City
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Explore and Indulge Like a Real NYC Foodie
There is no shortage of pizza, bagels, street vendors, cupcakes, craft beer and cocktails, rooftops and mini food parks to explore and so many more food choices in the five boroughs, along with wonderful guides who can't wait to show you them all!!!!
Best New York City Hotel Rooftops
NYC Hotel Rooftops offer some of the best skyline views in the whole City, along with cocktails and food, views, pools, cabanas, sundecks and retractable roofs. Our top picks for the most surreal views and cocktails include:
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Museums
Museums and attractions are open, some with reduced capacity, safety protocols, reservations and vaccination proof. Check out the new Museum of Ice Cream (SoHo), Guggenheim, MoMA, Whitney and so many more NYC Museums from which to choose.
Read more 13 Things to Do This March in New York State
Attractions & Sightseeing
NYC attractions are open, some with reservations required. Whether you want to sightsee from the sky or selfie with celebs @ Madame Tussauds, you can be safe and explore.
Go HIGH or Go Home
Top of the Rock, Empire State Building, One World Observatory, Edge or the new SUMMIT? Which is best and, if we have to choose, which should we visit? There is no easy answer, but here are some facts to help guide your choice.
- Empire State Building – (86 and 102 floors) Best for patient movie and history buffs who need to check it off their bucket list. Recently redone indoor 102nd Floor Observatory
- Top of the Rock – (67-70 floors) Best for sweeping 360° vista views, including of the Empire State Building and Central Park. Shorter lines and cheaper than the ESB.
- One World Observatory – (100-102 floors) Best for homage to the Twin Towers. Modern and high tech, with phenomenal views
- Edge – (100-101 floors) Highest outdoor observation deck, glass bottom floor, deck extends 80 feet away from building (photo)
- Summit One Vanderbilt – (91-93 floors) Opened Oct 2021, all glass elevator, indoor and outdoor decks and glass terraces off the side of the building. One of the hottest tickets in town
Secret NYC Insider Tours
Explore our subways secrets with a local guide, go behind-the-scenes at the Basilica of St. Patrick’s Old Cathedral, uncover surprising gems and historical tales of Grand Central Station, cocktail your way through Manhattan’s best and most secretive speakeasies and much more!
Fun Things to Do in NYC
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Sightsee from the Sky
Top of the Rock, Empire State Building, One World Observatory, Edge or Summit? Which is best and, if we have to choose, which should we visit? There is no easy answer, but here are some facts to help guide your choice.
- Empire State Building – (86 and 102 floors) Best for patient movie and history buffs who need to check it off their bucket list. Recently redone indoor 102nd Floor Observatory
- Top of the Rock – (67-70 floors) Best for sweeping 360° vista views, including of the Empire State Building and Central Park. Shorter lines and cheaper than the ESB.
- One World Observatory – (100-102 floors) Best for homage to the Twin Towers. Modern and high tech, with phenomenal views
- Edge – (100-101 floors) Highest outdoor observation deck, glass bottom floor, deck extends 80 feet away from building (photo)
- Summit One Vanderbilt – (91-93 floors) Opens Oct 2021, all glass elevator, indoor and outdoor decks and glass terraces off the side of the building
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New York City Night Cruises
See our beautiful Skyline from all angles – in any weather!
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Take in ALL the Tours, Landmarks and Attractions and SAVE
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Secret NYC Insider Tours
Explore our subways secrets with a local guide, go behind-the-scenes at the Basilica of St. Patrick’s Old Cathedral, uncover surprising gems and historical tales of Grand Central Station, cocktail your way through Manhattan’s best and most secretive speakeasies and much more!
Things to do in New York with Kids
One of the best parts of NYC is that what is fun for kids is usually just as much fun for adults. If you are joining us in NYC for a family vacation, then please read all about our local kid's favorites, along with special tips just for visitors.
See All: Visiting New York with Kids.
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FREE Things to do in New York City
There are tons of free things to do in New York all day, every day! Tours, attractions, museums, events, shows, sports, movie and more. Kids, adults, outdoors, indoors, active, lazy…you name it!
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New York City Shopping Guides
New York City Nightlife
How do you make the most of your time in the city that never sleeps?? Some of the best 'only in NYC' nightlife experiences include skyline views, dinner cruises, Museums and attractions open late til 2am, rooftops, night tours, comedy clubs and more. Some of our top NYC Nightlife picks:
See all our Top Picks: New York City Nightlife
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Romantic Things to Do in NYC
There are tons of things to do on your romantic New York City vacation. Attractions open late with skyline views, Central Park Tours, VIP Experiences, a helicopter ride. Some of the most popular romantic ways to see NYC include:
See more romantic things to do at: Romantic New York City Vacation and Valentine's Day in NYC
Explore and Indulge Like a Real NYC Foodie
There is no shortage of pizza, bagels, street vendors, cupcakes, craft beer and cocktails, rooftops and mini food parks to explore and so many more food choices in the five boroughs, along with wonderful guides who can't wait to show you them all!!!!
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Spot Celebrities in NYC
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Get Out of Town for a Day
NYC is within 3 hours of so many other cities and areas you can visit for just one day. Easily head to Washington DC, Boston, Philadelphia, Niagara Falls, the Hamptons, Woodbury Common Shopping Outlets and more. Whether you live in NY or are visiting, and no matter how much you love NYC, escaping for a day is a treat for everyone. Top choices for 1-day Out of Town:
See All: Day Trips Out of New York City
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