From the burning of towering dolls in Valencia to Delhi’s colorful streets during Holi, GoTravelDaily has rounded up seven vibrant festivals taking place this March.
Las Fallas – Valencia, Spain
Valencia is Spain’s third-largest metropolis and is often overlooked for more popular destinations like Barcelona and Madrid. However, it is teeming with unique traditions, futuristic architecture, and lush, miles-long parks. The best time to visit this Mediterranean city is during its most legendary tradition, the Las Fallas festival.
Local Valencians and visitors take to the sangria-soaked streets and historic plazas for a weeklong celebration that features cacophonous firecracker shows during the day and dazzling fireworks displays at night, with plenty of parties and paella in between. The highlight of the festivities culminates in the burning of giant papier-mache dolls representing both traditional and contemporary satirical figures (known as ninots) throughout the Old Town.
St. Patrick’s Day – Dublin, Ireland
Travelers flock to Dublin to experience St. Patrick’s Day in its homeland. The narrow lanes of the Irish capital are flooded with revelers during the long weekend, making it an exciting destination. While Guinness is consumed generously, Dublin shows a more authentic side to the holiday, which is often lost in American translations.
Enjoy traditional dishes like coddle or stew at a local pub, catch a rugby game, or find a peaceful moment in St. Stephen’s Green before joining the citywide parade.
LGBTQ Pride – Tampa, Florida
If you’re coming from a wintry area, then a visit to Tampa, Florida, is a fantastic choice for warm weather, particularly during the LGBTQ Pride Festival on March 28. Pirate-themed floats and exuberant drag queens march down the iconic 7th Avenue of Ybor City, showcasing the area’s diversity, acceptance, and vibrant spirit.
Holi Festival – Delhi, India
The kaleidoscopic Holi festivities celebrate the arrival of spring and the victory of good over evil.
With many origin stories linked to this Hindu holiday, it is celebrated in India and Nepal by splashing vibrant colors and enjoying the traditional drink Bhang made from cannabis. In Delhi, renowned for hosting some of the largest celebrations alongside Mumbai, the festivities are often musical, with events like the Holi Moo Festival featuring various performers across several stages.
Spring Equinox – Teotihuacán, Mexico
The Spring Equinox (March 20) marks the official start of the season associated with rebirth and renewal. Many believe in the energetic effects of this phenomenon, especially at Mexico’s ancient archaeological sites.
Thousands trek to the Pyramid of the Sun in Teotihuacán, outside of Mexico City, where rituals are performed, often clad in white clothing, to harness the energy of the sun’s rays. Traditional medicine practitioners also partake in ceremonies at the base of the ancient temples, paying homage to Mexico’s rich pre-Hispanic heritage and its celestial connections.
Wine and Food Festival – Charleston, South Carolina
Charleston is known for its rich history, preserved antebellum architecture, and acclaimed culinary scene. The city proudly showcases its food culture at the Wine and Food Festival from March 4 to 8.
Renowned chefs from across the nation gather in the Lowcountry alongside local farmers and purveyors to create an exciting schedule filled with foraging classes, oyster-shucking workshops, and lively brunches.
Chocolate Week – Antwerp, Belgium
Experience the gourmet indulgence of Belgian chocolate during Chocolate Week in Antwerp from March 6 to 15. A €10 pass provides access to over 20 renowned chocolatiers, showcasing meticulously crafted creations, fine pralines, and even unique offerings like cocoa lipstick.
