March is just around the corner, signaling that spring is on its way.
While we can still expect a few chilly days with slushy snow, the overall trend is definitely improving! Chicago has a lot to offer in March, including St. Patrick’s Day events, must-see concerts, and a variety of extraordinary exhibitions
Explore West Loop history on a four-mile Women’s Day running tour. If you’re looking for an active way to spend March in Chicago, Chicago Read & Run is leading a four-mile guided Women’s Running Tour of the West Loop that explores the neighborhood’s history and the stories of women who shaped it; the tour starts at Madison Street Books on March 7.
Join the Chicago Women’s March at Daley Plaza on March 8. If you’re looking for a meaningful way to spend a March day in Chicago, the annual Chicago Women’s March takes place Sunday, March 8, beginning with a rally and public speakers at Daley Plaza, followed by a march to the Chicago River. The event emphasizes community and peaceful activism.
Candlelight concerts provide a unique experience this month. Visit some of Chicago’s most beautiful venues to enjoy unforgettable performances.
The popular Candlelight series features a variety of talented musicians playing in these stunning spaces, illuminated by hundreds of candles. Due to high demand, additional concert dates have been added.
Expect a weekend-long festival blending traditional Irish culture with Chicago energy. For a St. Patrick’s Day outing in March, head to the weekend-long festival at Guinness Open Gate Brewery in the West Loop, featuring live music, entertainment, face painting, giveaways, interactive photo ops, and food & drink options.
From $6
Don your best Disney or Y2K outfit and celebrate Hannah Montana’s 20th with trivia, vendors, and a movie screening!
If you’re looking for a nostalgic night out this March, 2girls1city is hosting a Hannah Montana 20th-anniversary pop-up party on Tuesday, March 24, at The River Kitchen and Bar in Lakeview, featuring vendors, tattoos, trivia, drink deals, and a screening of the Hannah Montana movie. Tickets start at $6.
From the Green River dyeing to citywide bar crawls and parties, there are a ton of ways to celebrate in 2026.
Chicago’s layout follows a grid system, with streets aligned almost perfectly along compass directions—north-south and east-west. As a result, the sun aligns directly with the city’s east-west streets during the spring and fall equinoxes, illuminating the heart of the city.
Enjoy free admission to the Field Museum on a Wednesday
The famous museum announced that locals can view global wonders every Wednesday in 2026 for free.
Spend an evening at the Shedd Aquarium for free
In a move inspired by the Field Museum, the popular aquarium has announced that it will offer free entry every Tuesday in March.
Attend the Lincoln Park Conservatory’s spring flower show
Lincoln Park Conservatory, one of Chicago’s oldest public gardens, has kicked off this year’s Spring Flower Show with “Jewels of Spring,” which highlights the stunning flowers of the Tower of Jewels, also known as Echium or Pride of Madeira.
Celebrate Miles Davis’ 100th Birthday at the Jazz Room
Enjoy lamplight jazz and tributes to Miles at The Jazz Room year‑round.
If you’re looking for a laid-back night out in Chicago this March, The Jazz Room offers year-round, lamplight jazz nights featuring improv and tributes to Miles Davis, Louis Armstrong, and other legends — a relaxed spot to enjoy classic jazz with a drink.