As days grow longer and the temperatures rise, it’s the perfect time to embrace the arrival of spring — and all the South has to offer. From St. Patrick’s Day celebrations and charitable fundraisers to food and drink festivals, we’ve rounded up some of the best Southern events happening in March. Check them out!
March 1, 2025: 4th Annual Feast for Hope Gala — Birmingham, AL
The Community Food Bank’s 4th Annual Feast for Hope Gala, presented by Regions Bank, features a five-course menu with wine pairings curated by Les Dames d’Escoffier International Birmingham Chapter. Held at the Community Food Bank of Central Alabama, the event supports the fight against hunger, with individual tickets available for $125. feedingal.com
March 1, 2025: Mardi Gras Carnegie Carnival Celebration — Decatur, AL
The Carnegie Carnival season culminates in a day of family-friendly festivities along Downtown Decatur. Events kick off with the Carnival Frolic 13.1 & 5K, followed by live music, food trucks, a children’s art station, and the CASA Prince and Princess Parade. The Canine Carnival Parade and a free screening of The Princess & The Frog add to the fun before the grand finale — the Carnegie Carnival Parade at 6 p.m. carnegiecarnival.org
March 1, 2025: Tailspin Ale Festival — Louisville, KY
Head to Louisville’s historic Bowman Field for the annual Tailspin Ale Festival. During the event, attendees can enjoy access to 250+ beers from 50+ breweries, live music, a silent disco, and more. While VIP tickets are sold out, general admission tickets are $63.66. tailspinalefest.com
March 1, 2025: The Exceptional Foundation’s Chili Cook-Off — Birmingham, AL
The Exceptional Foundation’s annual Chili Cook-Off returns to Brookwood Village on March 1. Named “Best Community Event” by Mountain Brook Magazine, it features live music, a kids’ zone, and unlimited chili, with all proceeds supporting the foundation’s programming. Tickets start at $15. exceptionalfoundation.org
March 5 – 9, 2025: Charleston Wine & Food Festival — Charleston, SC
Celebrating its 20th anniversary, the Charleston Wine & Food Festival returns with a renewed commitment to showcasing and supporting the local culinary industry. The festival brings together top chefs, winemakers, artisans, and food enthusiasts for a five-day celebration of food and culture. This year, the Culinary Village moves to Johnson Hagood Stadium, offering Charleston’s largest sampling experience. Ticket prices vary by event. charlestonwineandfood.com
March 7, 2025: Whiskey Warmer — Memphis, TN
The 7th Annual Whiskey Warmer is an evening full of exceptional spirits, great company, and delicious food. Whiskey connoisseurs and newcomers alike can sample premier whiskey, bourbon, and scotch while learning from expert distillers. With live music by DJ Zetta, craft cocktails from local restaurants, a cigar lounge, and VIP access to exclusive tastings, the event supports Volunteer Memphis. whiskeywarmer.com
March 7 – 9, 2025: Savannah Antiques & Architecture Weekend — Savannah, GA
The Savannah Antiques & Architecture Weekend celebrates the city’s rich history through home tours, auctions, and expert lectures. This year’s event features renowned interior designer James Farmer, known for his signature Southern style. Highlights include a luncheon and book signing with James on March 8. Additional ticket information can be found at savantiquesweekend.com.
March 7 – 15, 2025: SXSW Conference & Festivals — Austin, TX
SXSW, held in the heart of Austin, TX, brings together the tech, film, television, and music industries for a dynamic week of discovery, networking, and professional development. The event features conference sessions, film screenings, music showcases, comedy sets, exhibitions, and awards. To see the full schedule and purchase tickets, visit sxsw.com.
March 8 & 9, 2025: 51st Annual Orange Beach Festival of Art — Orange Beach, AL
For over 50 years, the Festival of Art has marked Orange Beach’s first rite of spring, celebrating visual, literary, performing, musical, and culinary arts. The free event includes live entertainment across two stages as well as artwork for purchase. Event hours are Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Sunday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. orangebeachal.gov
March 8 – April 13, 2025: Cheekwood in Bloom: Love is in the Air — Nashville, TN
Celebrate the arrival of spring at Cheekwood Estate & Gardens, where 250,000 blooms create a breathtaking display. Snap a photo with Robert Indiana’s iconic LOVE sculpture and stroll among vibrant tulips, daffodils, and hyacinths. For additional details and to purchase tickets, visit cheekwood.org.
March 9, 2025: St. Paddy’s Half Marathon & 5K — Nashville, TN
Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day early by running through Nashville’s Two Rivers Disc Golf Course. Early bird registration starts at $39.99, and when you reach the finish line, you receive a commemorative stein, sugar cookie, and medal. runsignup.com
March 15, 2025: Silky Sullivan St. Patrick’s Parade — Memphis, TN
The annual Silky Sullivan St. Patrick’s Parade is one of the most exciting St. Patrick’s Day celebrations Memphis offers. Enjoy marching bands, steppers, twirlers, and colorful floats on America’s iconic Beale Street. The event is free to attend and open to locals and visitors alike. The fun begins at 2 p.m. bealestreet.com
March 21 – 30, 2025: International Cherry Blossom Festival — Macon, GA
Each March, the Cherry Blossom Capital of the World transforms into a pink paradise as thousands of Yoshino cherry trees bloom. The International Cherry Blossom Festival celebrates this breathtaking season with events like the Bed Race, Cherry Blossom Ball, and an exciting parade. To see the complete schedule, visit cherryblossom.com.
March 22, 2025: Hal’s St. Paddy’s Parade & Festival — Jackson, MS
Jackson’s beloved Hal’s St. Paddy’s Parade & Festival returns in 2025 with the theme, Hey, Hey, The Blues Is All Green. Grand Marshal Jesse Robinson leads the celebration, featuring a pet parade, children’s parade, and the main parade at 1 p.m. Festivities kick off March 21 with The Stomp, a lively tradition starting at Cathead Distillery and ending at Hal & Mal’s with food, drinks, and music. Parade events are free and open to the public. halsstpaddysparade.com
March 29 & 30, 2025: Bayou City Art Festival — Houston, TX
One of Houston’s premier art events, the Bayou City Art Festival in Memorial Park is a three-day celebration featuring hundreds of artists across multiple categories, live entertainment, and delicious food. Tickets start at $18 and must be purchased online. bayoucityartfestival.com
Have an amazing March!
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To see more great Southern events, check out our Happenings calendar!
