March MICHIGAN 2023: Top Events and Things to Do in Michigan in March
There are so many things to do in March in Michigan, with events, festivals, and celebrations happening all over.
From the shores of Lake Superior in the U.P., all the way down to the lower peninsula, there is no end to fun things to do in Michigan in March. Two big thing are going on in Michigan during March: St. Patrick’s Day and Michigan Maple Syrup time…that mean even more fun activities.
Sure, March still feels like winter in Michigan with snow is still on the ground Every now and then, a warm spring breeze appears. Happily, it reminds us that the winter fun is fleeting and the sun is on its way and summer vacation is just around the corner.
March Michigan events, festivals, and more will leave you both wanting the snow to stay just a little while longer, but getting excited for the spring thaw. It’s spring break time, too, a perfect time for a visit in Michigan.
March in Michigan brings a diverse range of things to do, including events centered on St. Patrick’s Day, Maple Syrup Festivals, outdoor winter fun, vehicles, and even blooming butterflies.
See below to browse our guide to events in March that you can find all across Michigan. Read on for date ideas, Michigan getaways and things to do this weekend near me.
Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day
Michigan turns green for St. Patrick’s Day, and there are tons of annual events and St. Patrick’s Day celebrations throughout the state. Irish on Ionia, a top St. Paddy’s Day celebration in Grand Rapids, and the Detroit St. Patrick’s Day parade are two really fun things to do! Use our guide to the best things to do to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day in Michigan.
St. Patrick’s Day Parades in Michigan
You might want to take a road trip or day trip to see one of the exciting St. Pat’s parades going on thoughout Michigan.
March Michigan Things to Do and Events in Southeast Michigan
Detroit Restaurant Week
Where: Various Locations throughout Detroit
When: February 22 – March 3
It’s not too late to sample the menus at some of Detroit’s best restaurants. Detroit Restaurant Week continues into March for a few final days, giving you just enough time to participate. Iconic Detroit staples like Andiamo Detroit Riverfront, Chartreuse Kitchen, Cliff Bell’s, La Noria Bistro and more welcome you to try their best dishes for a fixed rate.
Monster Jam Detroit
Where: Ford Field, 2000 Brush St., Detroit, MI 48226
When: March 11 – March 12
Monster Jam is a beloved event and a great choice for a family outing, especially if that family includes young sons who love trucks. Watch famous monster trucks crush smaller cars and perform awesome aerial stunts at Ford Field in Detroit.
Ann Arbor Film Festival
When: March 21 – March 26
The Ann Arbor Film Festival, North America’s oldest avant-garde and experimental film festival, returns in 2023 for a hybrid experience. Catch film screenings at the Michigan Theater in downtown Ann Arbor or participate online. Over 180 films of all lengths and genres from across the globe will be shown at the Ann Arbor Film Festival over the course of six days. It’s a bucket list festival for any film fanatic.
Celebrate Women’s History Month at Henry Ford Museum
Where: 20900 Oakwood Blvd, Dearborn, MI 48124
When: March 1 – 31, 2023
Head to the Henry Ford Museum of American Innovation and the Ford Rouge Factory Tour during Women’s History Month to explore the boundary-breaking achievements of American women throughout history.
In March and throughout the year, discover how women entrepreneurs, inventors, innovators, movement leaders, record setters and trailblazers, through actions both quiet and loud, have changed — and continue to change — American society.
Novi Boat Show
Where: Suburban Collection Showplace, 46100 Grand River Avenue, Novi, MI 48374
When: March 9 – March 12
With the Great Lakes all around and countless inland lakes in metro Detroit and throughout the state, it comes as no surprise that boats are popular in Michigan.
Life on the lakes includes plenty of fishing, swimming, and of course – boating. At the Progressive Novi Boat Show, avid boating enthusiasts from across the Great Lakes State are invited to browse, admire, and even purchase watercraft of all kinds. It’s a great way to get involved in Michigan’s boating subculture.
Southern Michigan Winter Beer Festival
Where: American 1 Credit Union Event Center, 128 W Ganson St, Jackson, MI 49201
When: March 11
The Southern Michigan Winter Beer Festival is held in Jackson on March 11 and will feature over 35 breweries, fire pits, outdoor games, and food trucks. This will be the last festival of the winter months and the last chance to put on boots and coats and experience the chill in the air and some unique brews from south central Michigan breweries.
St. Patrick Parade Corktown Races
Where: Michigan Central Station, Detroit, MI
When: March 12
Join 6,000 other runners snd walkers participating in the 40th Anniversary Corktown races! This annual, family-friendly race runs along the Parade route. It’s a fun celebration with paper mache big heads, inflatables and many costumes (with a judged contest) at Roosevelt Park in from of the old Central Depot in Corktown.
Maple Syrup Time at Stage Nature Center in Troy
Where: 6685 Coolidge Hwy, Troy, MI 48098
When: 3/4, 3/11, 3/18/23
Maple Syrup Time at the Stage Nature Center in Troy is a favorite family-friendly activity throughout March. A hike through the sugar bush will showcase the process of collecting sap from sugar maples, both modern and historic. Learn about the natural and local history of our region and the significance of maple sap for us today and throughout history.
Huron-Clinton Metroparks Maple Sugaring Month
Throughout March, Huron-Clinton Metroparks are celebrating maple sugaring month. On different days throughout the month, visitors can engage in a number of maple-oriented activities, including Pancakes to Go at both Kensington and Hudson Mills Metroparks.
Self-Guided Maple Sugaring Hikes
When: 3/4-5, 3/11-12, 3/18-19/23; 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Self-guided hikes start at the Interpretive Centers at the Metro Parks. Look for the sign that marks the beginning of the trail and then hike until you find each trail stop, scan the QR codes, and learn more about this seasonally sweet treat, right on your smartphone. Find them here:
- Wolcott Mill Metropark Historic Center
- Stony Creek Metropark Nature Center
- Kensington Metropark Farm Center
- Hudson Mills Metropark Activity Center
- Oakwoods Metropark Nature Center
- Pancakes to Go at Hudson Mills Metropark
Pancakes to Go at Kensington Farm Grill
When: 3/25 – 3/27/23; 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
More Maple Syrup Festivals and Events in Metro Detroit
- Maple Madness at Dinosaur Hill Nature Preserve
Dinosaur Hill Nature Preserve, 333 N. Hill Circle, Rochester, MI 48307 - Maple Sugaring at Red Oaks Nature Center
2800 Watkins Lake Road, Waterford, MI 48328 - A Day in the Sugarbush at Johnson Nature Center
3325 Franklin Rd, Bloomfield Twp, MI 48302 - Making Maple Syrup at Bloomer Park
345 John R Rd, Rochester, MI 48307 - Sap to Syrup Pancake Breakfast at Van Hoosen Museum
1005 Van Hoosen Rd, Rochester Hills, MI 48306
Eastern Market
March is one of my favorite times to visit Detroit’s Eastern market, especially to pick up some fresh flowers to remind us that spring is almost here. Eastern Market is one of the biggest outdoor open-air farmers markets in the country, and a true celebration of Michigan’s deep farm roots.
Michigan residents from around the state (and some from surrounding states, and Canada, too) flock to this bustling market year-round, and they’re never disappointed.
From food trucks featuring take-out from top-notch local restaurants to fresh flowers, produce, meats and more, you’ll be amazed at everything found here. With over 200 vendors, it’s easy to spend the day seeing everything.
Things to Do in West Michigan in March / March Events in Michigan
Butterflies are Blooming
Where: 1000 E Beltline Ave NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49525
When: March 1 – April 30
At the Frederik Meijer Gardens and Sculpture Park in Grand Rapids, spring is welcomed with a massive butterfly event. Fred and Dorothy Fichter Butterflies are Blooming occurs each year for two months. During this time thousands of tropical butterflies from around the world call the Lena Meijer Tropical Conservatory home. It’s the largest temporary tropical butterfly exhibition in the nation and you won’t want to miss it.
Make a day of it and grab lunch in the cafe for the perfect family outing in west Michigan.
Midwest RAD Fest
Where: Epic Center, 359 S. Kalamazoo Mall, Suite 203 Kalamazoo MI 49007
When: March 3 – March 5
The Midwest RAD Fest returns to Kalamazoo this month. Supported by southwest Michigan’s oldest professional dance company and hosted at the Epic Center, the Midwest RAD Fest provides entertainment in the form of high quality modern, post-modern, and contemporary dancing.
Kalamazoo Winter Craft Show
Where: Kalamazoo County Expo Center, 2900 Lake St, Kalamazoo, MI 49048
When: March 4 – March 5
The Kalamazoo County Expo Center is hosting the Kalamazoo Winter Craft Show again this year. For two days artists will display and sell their work, providing you with the opportunity to find a unique piece of artwork. It’s a great way to beat the winter blues, whether you end up buying something for yourself, getting a gift for someone else, or just decide to browse.
Grand Rapids Sporting Events – The Griffins & The Gold
March is a good month for sports fans all over Michigan and March is a great month for sporting events, especially in Grand Rapids. The AHL hockey team, the Grand Rapids Griffins continue to play throughout March and The Gold of the NBA G league turn up the heat as this month raises the stakes for basketball players around North America. Visit Van Andel Arena in Grand Rapids for all your west Michigan winter pro sports fun.
Supporting the local affiliate teams is a great way to see high quality sports without the high price tag for tickets.
West Michigan Home and Garden Show
Where: DeVos Place, 303 Monroe Ave NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49503
When: March 2 – March 5
We all prepare to welcome spring in different ways. For many, spring is the time to cultivate the garden and decorate the patio. The West Michigan Home and Garden Show at the DeVos Place in Grand Rapids provides all the tools you need to do just that. Browse gardens, attend events, gather inspiration, and even buy products to bring your garden to the next level. We give this event two green thumbs up.
Girlfriends Weekend Holland
Where: Downtown Holland
When: March 3-5
During Girlfriends Weekend in Holland, you can spend three days shopping, dining, and exploring downtown Holland on Lake Michigan with all your best gal pals.
With a $45 registration fee, you get the full experience, including a swag bag, coupon book, complimentary mimosas at check-in and a chance to win giveaways and participate in activities throughout the March 3-5 weekend.
Dropkick Murphys in Grand Rapids
Where: GLC LIVE at 20 Monroe, 11 Ottawa Ave NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49503
When: March 12
Dropkick Murphys is a celtic punk band that rose to fame thanks to their unique blend of traditional Irish music with aggressive punk rock. In an exciting event, the band will be performing in Grand Rapids on March 12 as part of a St. Patrick’s Day tour. It’s the perfect opportunity to rock out for St. Paddy’s.
West Michigan Women’s Expo
Where: DeVos Place, 303 Monroe Ave NW, Grand Rapids, MI
When: March 17 – March 19
Get the girls together and head to the DeVos Place in Grand Rapids for an event catered to women. Participate in activities, do some shopping, pamper yourself, and more at the West Michigan Women’s Expo. From self defense and fire safety demonstrations to spa treatments there’s so much here for women to enjoy. Make a day of it and bring all your friends for a girls day out.
Price Is Right Live
Where: DeVos Performance Hall, 303 Monroe Ave. NW Grand Rapids, MI 49503
When: March 28
The Price Is Right Live is the interactive stage show for fans of the hit television game show. Attend the show on March 28 at the DeVos Hall in Grand Rapids for the chance to hear your name called to “come on down” and win fabulous prizes, including appliances, vacations, and maybe even a new car. Any game show enthusiast shouldn’t miss this ultimate interactive experience.
Thins to Do in March in Mid-Michigan / March Events in Mid-Michigan
Maple Syrup Day
Where: 400 S Badour Rd, Midland, MI 48640
When: March 18
March is maple month and there are plenty of ways to celebrate in Michigan, including maple syrup festivals, events, and activities. On March 18 specifically, the Chippewa Nature Center in Midland, MI, hosts Maple Syrup Day, where visitors engage in activities for all ages that celebrate the process of turning sticky maple sap into sweet maple syrup. Treat yourself with a day filled with maple sweets, food, and fun for the whole family.
MARVAC Annual RV and Camping Show
Where: Kellogg Arena, 1 McCamly Square, McCamly St S, Battle Creek, MI 49017
When: March 3 – March 5
The onset of March means it’s time to prepare for warm weather fun as spring and summer approach. The MARVAC RV and Camping Show at Kellogg Arena in Battle Creek is ready to help you prepare for your next big camping adventure.
With plenty of RVs and trailers to browse and lots of camping accessories to help improve your trips, any camper would get excited for the season here.
Butterflies in Bloom at Dow Gardens
Where: 1809 Eastman Ave, Midland, MI 48640
When: March 3 – April 16, 2023; 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. daily
Butterflies in Bloom at Dow Gardens features thousands of brilliantly-colored butterflies, from countries around the world, emerging from their chrysalis, feeding, and flying all within the tropical environment of the Dow Garden’s Conservatory.
Southern Michigan Winter Beer Festival
Where: American 1 Event Center, 128 W Ganson St, Jackson, MI 49201
When: March 11
Make the final days of winter count with an indoor-outdoor beer festival in Jackson. Inside the American 1 Event Center you’ll find all things beer, including over 150 unique brews. Outside on the patio, you can get a meal from a food truck, participate in games and other activities, or just hang out by the fire.
Toughest Monster Truck Tour at Dow Event Center
Where: 303 Johnson St, Saginaw, MI 48607
When: March 4
The Toughest Monster Truck Tour returns to The Dow Event Center on March 4 . The Toughest Monster Truck Tour brings only the best and most skilled monster trucks and drivers in the nation to compete in 3 competitions each night on an all-dirt track with obstacles, jumps and turns that are considered the most difficult of any monster truck event. Only one can be the Toughest!
Things to Do in Northern Michigan in March / March Events in Northern Michigan
March Weekend Ski Specials at the Homestead
The Homestead Ski Resort, set in the middle of Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, is offering amazing ski deals for the month of March. Rooms for up to four guests including lift tickets and breakfast buffet is just $422!
In addition to downhill skiing and snowboarding, you’ll also find miles of trails for hiking or crosscountry skiing. Sleeping Bear is one of the top Michigan tourist destinations, and winter is a spectacular time to take in the amazing views of Lake Michigan from atop the North face ski run.
Suds and Snow
Where: Bonobo Winery, 12011 Center Rd, Traverse City, MI 49686
When: March 4
Suds and Snow is Traverse City’s “ultimate part in the woods.” Hike a half-mile through the forest and come upon an oasis of vendors and fun, including food trucks, musicians, and of course – beer. 30 breweries and cider houses have agreed to participate in the event, providing plenty of different local brews to try.
Bonobo Winery is also the exclusive Michigan wine vendor for the event. Get dressed up in your best Mardi Gras style as per this years theme, then set out in the woods for a party unlike any other.
Maple Day MapleFEST at Grass River Natural Area in Bellaire
Where: 6500 Alden Hwy Bellaire, MI 49615
When: March 19
Head to beautiful Bellaire, just south of Charlevoix in northern Michigan and see how maple syrup is made. Sap collected from the trees will be boiled on the evaporator at the Pavilion at the Grass River Center.
This is a great opportunity to watch as maple syrup is made; staff will be on hand to answer questions about the process. You can also hike on the trail to see where they tap trees, hang buckets and lines, and collect the sap. The Center will be open indoors from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. A limited supply of Grass River Maple Syrup may be available for sale.
Headlands International Dark Sky Park
At the end of winter, the consistent gray cloud coverage seems to lift a bit, meaning amateur astronomers get to enjoy the night sky again. There’s simply nowhere better in Michigan to enjoy that night sky than Headlands International Dark Sky Park in Mackinaw City. Here, light pollution is managed to ensure maximum night sky visibility. Sometimes visitors see shooting stars or northern lights as well, so a spring evening up here is truly otherworldly.
Try Winter Camping at a Michigan State Park
Just because it’s winter doesn’t mean that you can’t still enjoy some camping. Warren Dunes State Park, south of St. Joseph, is just one state park that offers winter camping. We put together a guide to six amazing state parks for overnight camping in March.
Blue Ice in Mackinaw City
You might think Mackinaw City is a summer destination, but during the winter, something amazing happens on the shores of Lake Huron that draws thousands of people into town. The amazing natural phenomena called Blue Ice returns to the shorelines of Michigan.
The ice forms in such a way that it reflects blue light, making the ice itself appear blue. The pieces break up and layer over each other creating a stunning view of icy blue layers all over the water.
It’s something everyone should see once, and March is the best chance to see it in Mackinaw City. Lake Huron’s coastline near the Mackinac Bridge is a great spot to catch a glimpse of this amazing natural spectacle up close and personal, and the month of March is the time to do it.
Visit One of Michigan’s Dark Sky Parks in Alpena
How does gazing at a sky filled with glittering planets and stars from Michigan’s Lake Huron shoreline sound? Alpena, MI is home to three of Michigan’s Dark Sky Parks. These are designated areas of darkness, free of light pollution and offer amazing views of the Northern Lights and meteor showers. March – April is one of the best times to catch a glimpse of the interstellar spectacles in a nature preserve. Choose from Rockport State Recreation Area, Thompson’s Harbor State Park or Negwegon State Park. Bonus? All of these parks are home to endless miles of hiking trails.
Things to Do in March in the Upper Peninsula
Munising’s Annual Taste & Glide
Valley Spur Ski Trails, Munising are the place to be on March 4, when the annual Taste and Glide takes place. This is a day of skiing and snowshoeing, enjoying food on the trails and in the lodge, listening to fun music and singing along and the company of good people. Valley Spur is the home of some of the top biking trails, cross country ski and snowshoe trails. Munising is located Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore.
Explore the Eben Ice Caves
March is the time to explore the Eben Ice caves, before they all melt away under the spring sun, Also known as the River Rock Canyon Ice Caves, these caves are natural phenomena, formed by melting snow that runs over the edge of the small cliff here and freezes. The sheets of ice and massive icicles create the “ice caves.”
If you go, you’ll park in a parking lot on privately owned land and traipse almost ¾ miles before you get to the caves, be sure to dress warmly and you might consider buying ice cleats to help you navigate the icy trail. The icy caves are a stunning site worth exploring and please be sure to purchase something from the snack bar to help support this attraction.
