California Bucket List: Top Things to Do in March

Spring is nearly upon us, so there are endless things to do in March. From spending some highly anticipated days outside, to planning your ideal spring break vacation, to eating your weight in cheese and pie before bathing suit season is here, the possibilities are endless in the Golden State. 

Before your calendar fills up with work events and school fundraisers, set aside some time to experience the best of California at March’s top events.

The Flower Fields at Carlsbad Ranch

When: March 1

Plan your visit to The Flower Fields at Carlsbad Ranch during the season opening on March 1 to see the stunning array of giant, colorful ranunculus in all their glory. Whether you’ve been planning the perfect proposal or you’re searching for a photoshoot location, wander the iconic fields for a picture-perfect March celebration.

North Lake Tahoe Snowfest

When: March 1–8

If you’re not quite ready to welcome spring with open arms, head up north to Lake Tahoe’s Snowfest for some frozen fun. This event is undoubtedly one of the best things to do in Lake Tahoe in March. Enjoy ice carving– and ice cream–eating competitions, meet Squaw Valley’s rescue dogs, and make snowballs in the winter wonderland.

Presidential Primary Elections

When: March 3

Your voice matters, so make sure to vote in the 2020 presidential primary election. Head to your local polling place between 7 a.m. and 8 p.m., or mail in your ballot to ensure your vote counts.

Disneyland After Dark: PIXAR Nite

When: March 5

Are you crazy about Cars and Coco? Are you always raving about Ratatouille, Toy Story, or The Incredibles? If so, you have to add Disneyland After Dark: PIXAR Nite to your March itinerary. The event takes place from 8 p.m. to midnight, but your ticket gives you access to Disney California Adventure Park at 5 p.m., giving you plenty of time to snag your favorite snacks, visit the top attractions, and get hyped for a night of dancing and fun. Look forward to themed foods, photo ops, and characters at the coveted March event.

The Coachella Valley Wildflower Festival

When: March 7

Drive over to Palm Desert Civic Center Park between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. to admire the beauty of the desert at the Coachella Valley Wildflower Festival. Hosted by Friends of the Desert Mountains, the flower fest is now in its 13th consecutive year. This free, family-friendly celebration makes our list of fun things to do in March, thanks to the art displays, 5K fun run, raffles, live music, and food vendors.

First Day of Spring

When: March 19

From checking out the local flower fields to hiking California’s best trails, there are infinite ways to welcome spring. Whatever you have planned, make sure to mark this momentous day on the calendar, and keep an eye out for things to do in March 2020.

When: March 21

Now in its 27th year, the Taste of Yountville celebrates the incredible food and music of the Napa Valley. Bringing together 50-plus eateries and boutiques, this one-of-a-kind event can’t be missed. 

Claremont Pie Festival

When: March 21

If you’re planning a weekend in the quaint town of Claremont, make sure to add the Claremont Pie Festival to your to-do list. Carve out your schedule between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. to witness the pie-baking contest, artisan demonstrations, food booths, classic car show, pie walk, and pie-tasting buffet—trust us, there’s nothing quite like it. 

California Artisan Cheese Festival

When: March 27–29

The 14th annual California Artisan Cheese Festival is finally here! Held at the Sonoma County Event Center in Santa Rosa, the weekend features several farm and producer tours, seminars, demos, tastings, brunches, and so much cheese. Get all the details, and start planning your trip now.

Looking for even more adventure? Drive to California's Great America on opening day, March 21, to take advantage of the springtime temps, see the opening ceremony, and get a jump-start on the brand-new collectible button program. 

Are you looking forward to an event in March? Let us know in the comments.