21 Magnificent Things To Do In Philly This March

If you’re looking for a can’t-miss March night out, experience the magic of Astra Lumina at Abington Art Center, where a stunning light show transforms the venue into a celestial wonderland. Guests will walk illuminated trails and enjoy captivating visual displays showcasing the beauty of the night sky. Perfect for families and couples, this enchanting journey merges art and technology in a stunning fusion, offering abundant photo opportunities and unforgettable moments. Grab your tickets now before they’re all gone!

These unique performances blend classic and contemporary music in beautifully illuminated venues, creating magical evenings that resonate with audiences. While you’re mapping out your March must-dos, be sure to add this to your bucket list.

Enjoy enchanting Candlelight concerts featuring tributes to Whitney Houston, The Beatles, Queen vs. ABBA, and Hip-Hop on Strings. These unique performances blend classic and contemporary music in beautifully illuminated venues, creating magical evenings that resonate with audiences. Gift a loved one a Candlelight gift card for an unforgettable experience cherished worldwide.

Philadelphia lights up Comcast Center Plaza for a 100-day World Cup countdown pep rally. For a midday March pick-me-up, head to Comcast Center Plaza for Philadelphia’s high-energy 100-day FIFA World Cup 2026 countdown pep rally on Tuesday, March 3, 2026, featuring live performances, mascots, and an interactive fan campaign. The outdoor event runs from 11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.

An adults-only enchanted forest party with cocktails and dancing. For a magical March night out in Philly, this after-hours, 21+ event transforms the show into an enchanted forest with immersive displays, themed cocktails, dancing, and a whimsical atmosphere; separate ticket required.

Garden Glow is an enchanting after-hours experience where nature and light transform the Conservatory and Main Fountain Garden into a luminous winter dreamscape. Wander glowing paths, explore vibrant floral installations, and experience striking displays like illuminated bonsai and a suspended dreamlike creation in the West Conservatory. Outside, thousands of shimmering sparks rise into the night sky, turning the gardens into a magical world of color, movement, and discovery.

Celebrate 150+ years of lifesaving work at the Fur Ball gala. One of March’s most feel-good nights out, Morris Animal Refuge’s 29th annual Fur Ball gala takes place Friday, March 13, 2026 at 2300 Arena. The Las Vegas–inspired evening features an open bar, seated dinner, live music, auctions, and opportunities to meet adoptable animals to support lifesaving programs.

This unique event immerses diners in a sensory journey, encouraging you to savor a three-course meal without the distraction of sight. If you’re looking to mix up your March dining plans, Philly food lovers can head to the Dining in the Dark experience at the Pyramid Club, now back with new dates. This unique event immerses diners in a sensory journey, encouraging you to savor a three-course meal without the distraction of sight. Blindfolds enhance the flavors and aromas as you explore a diverse menu featuring vegan, seafood, and meat dishes. It’s a chance to enjoy a fun and memorable night out with friends or a special someone—get your tickets now!

The wait is almost over! This long abandoned 19th century bank in Old City has been completely transformed into a fantastical six-story art labyrinth where guests are encouraged to wander and truly be present in the moment. Think ultra-immersive and sensory-driven.

Ministry of Awe will officially open March 14, 2026.

The Espresso Martini Crawl returns to Northern Liberties on Saturday, March 14, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. If youre looking for a caffeinated way to spend a Saturday in Philly, this neighborhood-wide crawl brings 20+ bars, cafes, and restaurants together to serve specially priced espresso martinis and coffee-themed pop-ups from 11:00 to 16:00. Expect creative cocktail variations, coffee-inspired treats, and local makers throughout the neighborhood.

If you’re looking to add a little green to your March plans, Philly has you covered—Philadelphia was named the third-best U.S. city to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day. After all, Philly is the nation’s second-largest hub of Irish heritage.

In fact, the city boasts 56 themed events and 19 Irish pubs, plus a lively Instagram footprint with 3,897 posts showing off its Irish pride. It’s also home to McGillin’s Olde Ale House, one of America’s oldest continuously inhabited Irish pubs.

This year’s annual St. Patrick Day Parade returns to the Benjamin Franklin with all its signature green flair. The year’s theme, “250 Years of Irish Contributions to America,” honors the Semiquincentennial in a meaningful way. With all these celebrations, it’s no wonder Philadelphia shines on St. Paddy’s Day!

A one-night-only walk-around tasting showcasing Philly’s best chefs and flavors. For a standout March food event, the James Beard Foundation’s Taste America returns to Philadelphia on March 18, 2026, with a walk-around tasting at The Grand Belle at The Bellevue featuring 35+ food and beverage stations and chefs from across the city. Tickets start at $200, and proceeds support the Foundation’s programs for a more sustainable restaurant industry.

If you’re looking for a March day trip outside Philly, step into a quietly preserved stretch of Pennsylvania history aboard the Colebrookdale Railroad. The Colebrookdale Railroad offers a scenic springtime ride through the historic Secret Valley from Boyertown, PA, featuring vintage-style passenger cars and open-air viewing for photos and fresh-air sightseeing. Tickets start at $25 with optional dining upgrades and multiple seating choices.

Dig for real 66-million-year-old fossils just 30 minutes from Philly. If you’re itching for a quick March adventure outside the city, Edelman Fossil Park & Museum in Mantua Township, NJ delivers immersive, hands-on fossil digs and interactive exhibits where visitors can uncover 66-million-year-old marine fossils and occasional dinosaur remains. The active research quarry—where guests dig under specialist guidance—will reopen in Spring 2026, and the museum is about a 30-minute drive from Center City Philadelphia.

If you’re looking to add some high-octane fun to your March plans, F1 Arcade Philadelphia has officially opened in Center City, merging high-speed racing, dining, and nightlife into a unique experience. This 19,000-square-foot venue, featuring precision racing simulators and a gourmet menu by acclaimed chef LP O’Brien, caters to both motorsport enthusiasts and newcomers alike. With impressive drinks, sumptuous food, and immersive décor, it’s set to be a top gathering spot where friends and communities can connect. Book your racers now!

If you’re craving a quick escape from the city this March, set your sights on St. Peter’s Village. Nestled in Chester County, this dreamy, forgotten stone village enchants visitors with its picturesque charm and rich history, transporting you back to the 1800s. Once a granite quarry town, this hidden gem offers quaint shops, scenic trails, and a peaceful creek for sunbathing and picnicking. With no commercial distractions, it invites you to unwind and embrace its nostalgic ambiance—perfect for a day trip from Philadelphia. Experience the magic of a forgotten stone village amid nature.

The historic Philadelphia Zoo, America’s first, features innovative animal trails and focuses on animal welfare. If you’re looking to add a wild-card outing to your March plans in Philly, explore the area’s top three zoos—each with its own take on a wildlife adventure. The historic Philadelphia Zoo, America’s first, features innovative animal trails and focuses on animal welfare.

Elmwood Park Zoo in Norristown delights families with intimate interactions and a conservation message.

Lastly, the Brandywine Zoo in nearby Wilmington showcases animal care within a charming, compact setting. Each zoo promises an unforgettable adventure into the world of wildlife.

Lititz, PA, known as the spiritual homeland of soft pretzels, is a charming small town just 90 minutes from Philadelphia. When you’re craving a delicious escape beyond the city, point your March adventure toward Lititz, PA. This quaint small town is home to the Julius Sturgis Pretzel Bakery, the nation’s first commercial pretzel bakery—where visitors can even twist their own pretzels. Afterward, wander the picturesque streets lined with boutiques, indulge in delicious Wilbur Chocolate, and soak up the community vibe in Lititz Springs Park for a delightful food-lover-friendly day trip.

Nothing says spring quite like PEEPS, the colorful marshmallow treats from Pennsylvania’s own, Just Born, Inc.

Now in its seventh year, during this annual celebrations PEEPS serve as artistic inspiration for décor, wall art, dioramas, sculptures and much more. It’s truly a one-of-a-kind festival that’s sweet in every way.

A new Universal Theme Parks exhibition at the Franklin Institute brings cinematic worlds to life with dinosaurs, dragons, and legendary creatures. Dive into immersive displays, hands-on experiences, and behind-the-scenes insights from some of Universal’s most iconic attractions.

Celebrate spring in a vibrant way as Penn Museum hosts its CultureFest! honoring Holi, the joyful Festival of Colors. Enjoy a family-friendly day filled with music, dance, storytelling, art, and the iconic tossing of colorful powders.

Presented with the University of Pennsylvania South Asia Center, the event is included with regular museum admission.

This beloved annual festival is a celebration of Japanese culture, arts, and the beauty and history of the Sakura. Enjoy live performances, multiple vendors, authentic Japanese bites, a beer garden, and over 1000 beautiful blooms. It’s fun for the entire family!