Local Events and Seasonal Traditions
March in Maine is a transition month. Winter is still holding on, but the first hints of spring start to appear across the state. It is also a great time to get out and experience some of the traditions, events, and local activities that make Maine unique.
From maple syrup weekends to local sports and cultural events in Portland, here are a few things happening across Southern Maine this March.
Maine Maple Sunday Weekend
Across Maine
March 21 to March 22, 2026
One of Maine’s most beloved spring traditions returns this month as sugarhouses across the state open their doors to the public. Maine Maple Sunday Weekend offers visitors a chance to tour sugarhouses, learn how maple syrup is made, and sample fresh syrup and maple treats.
Many locations host pancake breakfasts, maple candy tastings, and family friendly demonstrations showing how sap is collected and boiled into syrup.
For many Mainers, this weekend marks the unofficial start of spring.
Portland St. Patrick’s Day Parade
Portland
March 15, 2026
Portland’s annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade brings energy and celebration to Commercial Street each March. The parade features local community groups, Irish dancers, bagpipe bands, and festive floats.
It is one of Portland’s largest spring gatherings and a great way to experience the city’s lively downtown atmosphere.
Maine Mariners Hockey
Cross Insurance Arena, Portland
Hockey season continues through March as the Maine Mariners take the ice at Cross Insurance Arena. The Mariners are part of the ECHL and offer an exciting, fast paced game experience right in downtown Portland.
For sports fans looking for something to do on a winter evening, Mariners games are a great local option.
Maine Celtics Basketball
Portland Expo
Basketball fans can also catch the Maine Celtics at the Portland Expo. The team is the NBA G League affiliate of the Boston Celtics and regularly features rising professional talent.
Home games continue through March, making it a fun and accessible way to experience high level basketball in the city.
Art in Bloom
Portland Museum of Art
March 25 to March 29, 2026
Art in Bloom returns to the Portland Museum of Art with one of the museum’s most visually striking annual events.
Floral designers from across the region create arrangements inspired by artwork in the museum’s collection. Visitors can walk through the galleries and see how each floral installation reflects the colors, shapes, and themes of the art it accompanies.
It is a unique blend of art, design, and spring inspiration.
The End of Ice Fishing Season
As temperatures begin to warm across Maine, many lakes close to ice fishing in mid to late March. For outdoor enthusiasts, it is the final stretch of the winter fishing season before open water returns.
For others, it is simply another sign that spring is gradually making its way back to Maine.
Looking Ahead to Spring
March in Maine is a month of transition. Maple syrup season begins, outdoor events start to return, and communities across the state begin preparing for the busy spring months ahead.
Whether you are exploring a sugarhouse, attending a parade in Portland, catching a hockey game downtown, or visiting the museum, there are plenty of ways to enjoy the season.
