As spring takes hold in the Valley of the Sun, Phoenix bursts into life with an array of events and activities perfect for March 2025. From the vibrant Ostrich Festival showcasing family fun and local culture to Extra Innings baseball games that excite sports fans, the city offers something for everyone. In this guide, azcentral.com and The Arizona Republic highlight the best things to do in Phoenix this month, capturing the spirit of the season and the diverse experiences awaiting residents and visitors alike.
Best Outdoor Festivals to Experience in Phoenix This March
As the desert blooms in March, Phoenix bursts into a lively array of outdoor festivals that celebrate everything from culture to cuisine. One can start with the Ostrich Festival in nearby Chandler, a vibrant event featuring ostrich races, artisan vendors, and family-friendly activities. For those seeking a taste of local art, the First Fridays Art Walk transforms downtown Phoenix into an open-air gallery with live music, food trucks, and colorful exhibits. Meanwhile, the Arizona Renaissance Festival offers a journey back in time with jousting knights, themed performances, and handcrafted goods – all under the warm spring sun.
Sports fans won’t want to miss the Extra Innings Festival, a celebration coinciding with spring training baseball games, featuring live performances, gourmet snacks, and interactive baseball-themed attractions. For a more eclectic experience, the Holi Festival of Colors paints the city in vibrant hues, inviting participants to throw colored powders and enjoy traditional music and dance. These outdoor gatherings not only highlight the rich cultural tapestry of the Phoenix area but also provide scenic backdrops perfect for enjoying the temperate March weather.
| Festival | Location | Highlights | Dates |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ostrich Festival | Chandler | Ostrich races, artisan market, live music | March 8-10 |
| First Fridays Art Walk | Downtown Phoenix | Art galleries, food trucks, street performers | March 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 |
| Arizona Renaissance Festival | Lone Butte | Jousting shows, period crafts, themed food | Weekends in March |
| Extra Innings Festival | Tempe | Live music, baseball games, gourmet snacks | March 15-17 |
| Holi Festival of Colors | Phoenix Civic Space Park | Color powder throws, traditional dance & music | March 23 |
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites for Food Enthusiasts
Phoenix’s culinary landscape in March bursts beyond its well-trodden paths, revealing a trove of lesser-known eateries and cherished local spots. Food enthusiasts can dive into the eclectic flavors of The Welcome Diner in downtown, where classic American comfort meets innovative twists, or savor farm-fresh dishes at Farm 101, a neighborhood favorite known for its dedication to sustainable, locally sourced ingredients. For those with a sweet tooth, the artisanal pastries from Churn offer handcrafted delights that perfectly complement a sunny spring afternoon.
Exploring further afield, the vibe-rich Taqueria El Goloso serves arguably the city’s most authentic street-style tacos, overlooked by tourists but beloved by locals. Not far from the bustling city core, O.H.S.O. Brewery blends excellent craft brews with a vibrant menu of pub fare, creating a community gathering spot that’s both laid-back and lively. To make your culinary adventure seamless, here’s a handy guide to some hidden gems worth bookmarking:
- Pizza People: Creative, wood-fired pies in a cozy atmosphere.
- Nobuo at Teeter House: Elevated Japanese farm-to-table dining.
- The Breadfruit & Rum Bar: Caribbean flavors fused with a spirited bar scene.
- Welcome Diner: Inventive brunch specialties with a nostalgic touch.
Family-Friendly Activities and Entertainment Highlights
March in Phoenix bursts with activities perfect for families seeking fun and engaging entertainment. The annual Ostrich Fest in nearby Chandler offers a quirky blend of live ostrich races, petting zoos, and carousel rides that delight children and adults alike. Across the city, botanical gardens showcase spring blooms alongside interactive exhibits designed to spark curiosity in young minds. For those drawn to the arts, many local theaters present family-friendly plays and puppet shows, providing a mix of culture and enjoyment for all ages.
Sports enthusiasts will not want to miss the Extra Innings Baseball Experience, where families can catch glimpse of rising stars during spring training games, coupled with activities like batting cage sessions and autographed memorabilia contests. To complement the events, Phoenix parks and recreational centers are buzzing with creative workshops, DIY crafts, and outdoor movie nights, ensuring that every family day out is filled with laughter and lasting memories.
- Ostrich Fest – Interactive animal experiences and carnival rides
- Botanical Garden Spring Exhibits – Hands-on learning for kids
- Family Theater Performances – Puppet shows and children’s plays
- Extra Innings Baseball Experience – Spring training fun and kid-friendly activities
- Outdoor Movie Nights – Classic favorites under the stars
Exploring Sports Events and Unique Seasonal Attractions
March in Phoenix is a thrilling time for sports enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike. The Cactus League spring training games kick off, offering baseball fans an up-close view of MLB teams as they prepare for the new season. Whether you’re cheering from the stadium or enjoying the vibrant game-day atmosphere around Scottsdale, the energy is palpable. Alongside baseball, the city hosts events like the Ostrich Festival in nearby Chandler, where visitors can experience unique races, artisan markets, and family-friendly activities that celebrate the quirky side of desert wildlife.
For those looking to explore beyond traditional sports, the month brings Extra Innings, an extended celebration of local arts and culture inspired by baseball’s influence on the community. This includes pop-up performances, culinary events focusing on ballpark classics, and interactive exhibits detailing the history of baseball in Arizona. Here’s a quick look at what’s happening:
| Event | Date | Location | Highlight |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ostrich Festival | March 15-17 | Chandler | Ostrich races & artisan crafts |
| Cactus League Spring Training | March 1-31 | Multiple stadiums | MLB pre-season games |
| Extra Innings Cultural Fest | March 20-23 | Phoenix Arts District | Art exhibits & baseball-themed cuisine |
The Way Forward
As March 2025 unfolds, Phoenix continues to offer a vibrant mix of events and activities that showcase the city’s unique culture and spirit. From the lively Ostrich Festival to the exciting Extra Innings baseball experiences, residents and visitors alike have plenty of ways to engage with the Valley’s dynamic community. Whether you’re seeking family-friendly fun, outdoor adventures, or cultural celebrations, Phoenix in March promises something for everyone. Stay tuned to azcentral.com and The Arizona Republic for up-to-date coverage on these must-see happenings throughout the month.
