Illinois in March: A Vibrant Celebration of Spring Awakening

As the harsh winter gradually loosens its grip, March ushers in the much-awaited arrival of spring across the Land of Lincoln. The state comes alive with a burst of color, vibrant festivals, and a diverse array of indoor and outdoor activities, offering something for everyone to enjoy. From the iconic St. Patrick’s Day celebrations in Chicago to the blooming gardens and nature trails, Illinois in March is a true feast for the senses.

The Emerald Extravaganza: St. Patrick’s Day in Chicago

No discussion of March in Illinois is complete without mentioning the grand St. Patrick’s Day festivities in Chicago. This city, with its rich Irish heritage, goes all out to celebrate the Emerald Isle’s patron saint. The highlight of the celebrations is the iconic dyeing of the Chicago River, a tradition that dates back to 1962. On March 16th, the Chicago Plumbers Union Local 130 will once again turn the river a brilliant shade of green using an environmentally friendly vegetable-based dye.

For the best views of this stunning spectacle, head to the east side of the Michigan Avenue bridge or the west side of the Columbus Drive bridge. Alternatively, the Chicago Riverwalk between State Street and Columbus Drive offers an equally mesmerizing vantage point.

After witnessing the river’s transformation, the city’s streets come alive with parades and marches celebrating Irish culture. The official St. Patrick’s Day Parade on Columbus Drive, the historic South Side Irish Parade on Western Avenue, and the Northwest Side Irish Parade on Northwest Highway are all must-see events.

For those seeking a truly immersive experience, Wrigleyville’s Charm’d pop-up bar offers an enchanting, multi-level extravaganza complete with Irish decor, photo opportunities, and an impressive array of themed drinks and snacks.

Nature’s Awakening: Blooming Gardens and Spring Festivals

As the temperatures rise and the snow melts away, Illinois’ gardens and parks come alive with the vibrant hues of spring. The Lincoln Park Conservatory’s annual Spring Flower Show is a must-visit, featuring nearly 300 whimsical gnomes amidst a stunning display of tulips, lilies, violas, and other blooming beauties.

Nature enthusiasts can also explore the Belleville Strawberry Festival, where they can pick fresh strawberries from vast berry fields, enjoy wagon rides, and indulge in farm-fresh treats. Alternatively, the Maple Syrup Festival in Makanda offers a unique opportunity to witness maple syrup demonstrations, nature hikes, and lumberjack shows, all while savoring delicious pancakes and waffles.

Cultural Immersion: Festivals and Exhibitions

March in Illinois is not just about embracing the great outdoors; it’s also a time for cultural exploration. The Chicago Latino Film Festival, the European Union Film Festival, and the Irish Film Festival offer a glimpse into diverse cultures through the art of cinema.

For those seeking a more hands-on experience, the Boneyard Arts Festival in Champaign-Urbana showcases the work of hundreds of artists across various mediums, including sculpture, painting, photography, and more. This festival transforms traditional venues like theaters and cafes, as well as non-traditional spaces like salons and retail stores, into vibrant art galleries.

The Field Museum in Chicago is also a hub of activity in March. The highly anticipated “Unseen Oceans” exhibition, opening on March 15th, takes visitors on an immersive journey into the depths of the ocean, showcasing life-sized projections of bizarre and bewildering deep-sea creatures.

Additionally, the museum has announced free admission every Wednesday throughout 2024, making it accessible to all Illinois residents.

Indoor Adventures and Unique Experiences

While outdoor activities abound, March in Illinois also offers a wealth of indoor adventures and unique experiences. For thrill-seekers, the state boasts several state-of-the-art indoor skydiving centers, such as iFly Indoor Skydiving in Lincoln Park and Rosemont, where visitors can experience the thrill of free-falling without leaving the ground.

Those seeking a more leisurely indoor experience can indulge in Chicago’s extravagant mini-golf cocktail bar, Puttery. This 23,000-square-foot venue in the Fulton Market District combines high-tech gameplay with craft cocktails and curated cuisine, providing an immersive and unforgettable experience.

For a truly unique dining adventure, Chicago offers a “Dining in the Dark” experience at the Hubbard Inn. Diners can savor a three-course meal while their senses are heightened by the darkness, allowing them to focus solely on the flavors and aromas of their meal.

Culinary Delights and Nightlife

Illinois, and particularly Chicago, is renowned for its diverse culinary scene, and March is an excellent time to explore it. From the city’s top-ranked pizzerias, like Pequod’s Pizza, to its acclaimed coffee shops, like Big Shoulders Coffee, there’s no shortage of gastronomic delights to savor.

For those seeking a more indulgent experience, Chicago’s revered speakeasies, such as the High Cocktail Club at the Four Seasons Hotel, offer a trendy and immersive cocktail experience. Alternatively, the newly opened Guinness Taproom in the West Loop provides a unique opportunity to enjoy the world-famous Irish dry stout in a stylish and inviting setting.

Candlelight Concerts: A Magical Musical Experience

Among the most enchanting experiences in March are the Candlelight Concerts hosted in various exquisite venues across Chicago. These concerts feature talented musicians performing amidst the warm glow of hundreds of flickering candles, creating a truly magical and intimate ambiance.

From tributes to music legends like Amy Winehouse and Gorillaz to captivating performances of Bollywood tunes and Hisaishi’s compositions, the Candlelight Concert series offers a diverse array of musical experiences to suit every taste.

Outdoor Adventures and Natural Wonders

For those seeking a break from the city’s hustle and bustle, Illinois offers a wealth of outdoor adventures and natural wonders to explore in March. The state is home to several breathtaking waterfalls, monolithic marvels, and diverse ecological landscapes that transform into winter wonderlands during this time of year.

Stargazers can also enjoy free evening admission to the iconic Adler Planetarium every Wednesday, providing access to the largest public telescope in the Midwest and a range of exciting astronomy events and activities.

In conclusion, Illinois in March is a truly enchanting time, offering a diverse array of experiences that cater to every interest. Whether you’re seeking cultural immersion, outdoor adventures, culinary delights, or unique indoor experiences, the state has something to offer. So, embrace the vibrant spirit of spring and embark on an unforgettable journey through the Land of Lincoln this March.