In Philadelphia there’s a wealth of things to do, making it challenging to keep up with all the museum exhibits, shows and other events. To make it easier, here’s a list of activities to keep you entertained in March.
1. Crocs: Ancient Predators in a Modern World
Visit The Academy of Natural Sciences special reptilian exhibit to meet and discover crocodiles past and present. Did you know their ancestors used to be galloping land predators? At this exhibit, you’ll discover other fun crocodilian facts, check out live species, observe an alligator’s nest, learn to speak croc and more.
2. Flower Show, March 3 – 11
By the time March rolls in, most of us have had enough of chilly temperatures and can’t wait for the blossoming of spring. That’s why so many people in the Philadelphia area flock to the annual Flower Show. The Philadelphia Flower Show has been honored as the best event in the world by the International Festivals and Events Association. The theme of this year’s show is the Wonders of Water. Visit the show to escape to tropical jungles, woodlands and arid landscapes. Discover the fantastic plants that flourish in each ecosystem. Walk the rope bridge, admire the multi-level bamboo waterfall, and learn some tips on how to create your own mini-water garden.
3. Best of Broadway, March 9 – 11
In the Kimmel Center’s Best of Broadway show, vocalists Debbie Gravitte, Christopher Seiber and Susan Egan join The Philly POPS to bring you some of Broadway’s favorite songs. Acclaimed conductor Todd Ellison will lead the musicians through hum-along tunes from Phantom of the Opera, South Pacific, Cabaret, Beauty and the Beast, Chicago and other top shows. Sit back and enjoy!
4. Leonard Bernstein: the Power of Music, March 16 – September 2
The National Museum of American Jewish History will open an exhibit in March to celebrate the life of Leonard Bernstein. While Bernstein is known for his music, such as West Side Story, many people are less familiar with how this American Jew lived with the crises during his day. Thus, this exhibit portrays a more holistic view of Bernsteinย the musician, the composer and the social activist.
5. Patrick’s Day Parade, March 11 Get your green on and enjoy the spirit of St. Patrick’s Day in one of the oldest parades in the country with over 20,000 participants. Enjoy the sights and sounds of marching bands, dancing, and music. This 247-year old tradition continues in Center City on March 11.
6. Philadelphia Wine Week, March 22 – 29
If you’re a wine lover, then you probably won’t want to miss Philadelphia Wine Week. Several concurrent events run throughout the week. At the Amada restaurant on 217 Chestnut, you can sample wines from different regions of Spain each day. For wines from Sicily and Sardinia served with antipasti pairings, visit Pizzeria Stella. Sample Sherry, Chablis, Lambrusco and more at Fishtown Social, a wine cafe that will be focusing on wines made using sustainable and organic processes. Or if you’re ready for a little mystery, head over to the Rittenhouse Hotel’s blind wine tasting. If you’re the first to identify the wine they serve, you’ll win a bottle of it!
7. Jean Shin Collection at Philadelphia Museum of Art,ย
Imagine works of art conjured up from objects that might otherwise be discarded. If that’s hard to do, come to see for yourself Jean Shins creations at the Philadelphia Museum of Art. She uses the discards of daily life โworn shoe soles, remnants of clothing, and more in her artwork. Or visit the museum before March 18 to catch the tail end of Patricia Urquiolaย exhibit of unique furniture and other decorative pieces for the home and office.
8. Philly Rabbit Run 5k/1m at the Philadelphia Zoo, March 31
It’s not often you have a chance to put on rabbit ears and run through a zoo! At the Rabbit Run, you can do it for a cause raise money to help fight Parkinson’s disease. The gates open at 7 a.m. to contestants and the race starts at eight, so you have a rare opportunity to tour the zoo’s gardens before the general public are admitted. And you can join in even if you’re not a runner walking and bunny hopping are perfectly acceptable. Afterwards, you can spend your day at the zoo. Bear in mind, it’s a popular event open to a limited number of people, so sign up early.
So make plans together now and make sure you don’t miss out on the fun activities Philly is serving up in March. Of course, always double check times and dates, and any tickets/reservations of Philly happenings before venturing out.