And no, I’m not talking about college basketball. I’m referring to the incredible opportunities that present themselves throughout our state’s Sonoran Desert communities during the glorious month of March. With clear skies and an average high temperature of 76 degrees, March is one of the busiest months for outdoor events and activities. And there are a lot of them!
Spring training is on most people’s radar, even if they’re not a baseball fan. Why? Because for one, it’s highly accessible. Cactus League Spring Training has more than 200 games scheduled on nearly every day of the week throughout ten stadiums for 15 teams. Phew! Then, add the fact that there’s equal opportunity to lounge around with friends and sun tan on the lush green lawn, or intently watch the game. And a bonus: lawn tickets are cheap.
Outdoor music festivals are in abundance, too. Almost every major city in the greater Phoenix area hosts some type of musical event in the spring, whether it’s an annual festival or a monthly concert series, there’s something for everyone. Literally everyone. Once you browse the municipal event calendars, you’ll discover the likes of jazz, country, symphony orchestras, folk, rock, hip-hop and more.
Culinary festivals, chili cook offs, BBQ s, and wine or beer tastings… again, you can find an outdoor food-themed event to fit your taste buds and your wallet. The great thing about food festivals and events is that they often partner with a popular venue or add live music. Or sometimes they do both! An example is the annual Birds and Beer night at the Rio Salado Audubon Center in Phoenix, or the Agave on the Rocks event at the Desert Botanical Garden. There are too many others to list, but with a little research, you’ll find your taste. Who’s hungry?
There’s plenty of culture to take in during March’s wonderful weather: Art walks, First Fridays, art festivals, and museum events. A few popular annual March events include: Arizona Renaissance Festival, Tempe and Scottsdale’s art festivals, and the Indian Fair & Market at the Heard Museum (which has been going on for more than 60 years strong!)
Let’s not forget to mention the hundreds of miles of trails that fill up with hikers, bikers, and horseback riders enjoying the weather. The Sonoran Desert is not only home to the largest municipal park in the United States, but it is also surrounded by public lands that anyone can enjoy. March is the perfect month to get out and view the desert’s colorful flora as wildflowers are out in full-force and cactus are starting to bloom.
March on!