March is another month with diverse celebrations that range from cultural and religious festivals to significant observances that impact daily life. Some of the most well-known holidays in March include St. Patrick’s Day, International Women’s Day, Holi, and Daylight Savings Time.
St. Patrick’s Day (March 17) One of the most widely celebrated holidays in March is St. Patrick’s Day. SUSAN SHERWIN This day honors St. Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland, who is credited with bringing Christianity to Ireland. Over time, the holiday has evolved into a global celebration of Irish heritage and culture with parades, festivals, and traditions such as wearing green, displaying shamrocks and feasting on corned beef &cabbage and green beer. Some cities like Dublin, New York, and Chicago host grand celebrations, with Chicago famously dyeing its river green. The U.S. has 31 million people who claim Irish descent; there are more Irish in America than in Ireland but one doesn’t have to be Irish to celebrate this holiday.
International Women’s Day (March 8) International Women’s Day (IWD) is a global holiday dedicated to recognizing women’s achievements and promoting gender equality.
Its origins date back to the early 20th century, when women around the world began advocating for equal rights, fair wages, and voting rights. Today, International Women’s Day may be celebrated in many countries with rallies, educational events, and campaigns to raise awareness of women’s contributions in society. In some countries, including Russia and China, IWD is even recognized as a public holiday.
Holi (Varies, Usually March) Another vibrant holiday in March is Holi, also known as the Festival of Colors. This Hindu festival is celebrated in India, Nepal, and many parts of the world where Hindu communities reside. Holi symbolizes the arrival of spring and the victory of good over evil, particularly the legend of Prahlada and Holika. The festival is famous for its joyful throwing of colored powders, music, dancing, and festive foods. Holi brings people together in a spirit of unity and renewal.
Daylight Savings Time (Second Sunday in March) While not a traditional holiday, Daylight Savings Time (DST) is an important observance that affects millions of people. In many countries, DST begins on the second Sunday in March, when clocks are set forward by one hour to make better use of daylight during the warmer months. While DST helps conserve energy, it also disrupts sleep patterns, leading to debates about its effectiveness.
Spring Equinox (March 20) Winter will end on the spring equinox, known also as the Vernal Equinox, on March 20 at 5:01 a.m. ET, in confirmation of Punxsutawney Phil’s Groundhog Day prediction last month. Punxsutawney Phil didn’t see his shadow then and predicted six more weeks of winter.
Whether it’s the joy of St. Patrick’s Day, the activism of International Women’s Day, the colors of Holi, the time shift of Daylight Savings Time or the Spring Equinox with the end of winter, March’s observances reflect some of the ways people mark the passage of time. Happy March, Grandezza Gazzette readers!
