March 2025 brings with it a wide range of celebrations and festivals, drawing people from around the world to partake in cultural traditions, historical events, and the joy of human creativity. From music and dance to sports and arts, March is packed with events that celebrate the diversity of the human experience. Whether you’re a festival enthusiast, a traveler, or someone simply curious about global traditions, this guide will help you navigate the top festivals in March 2025.
These events provide not only entertainment but also insight into the customs and practices that define different regions.
Cheltenham Festival – March 11–14, 2025
The Cheltenham Festival is a must-attend event for horse racing enthusiasts. Held annually in Cheltenham, UK, this four-day festival features 28 exhilarating races, with the Cheltenham Gold Cup being the highlight of the event. The festival draws thousands of spectators who gather to witness some of the finest horses and jockeys compete for prestigious titles. Expect a lively atmosphere filled with betting, cheering crowds, and an overall vibrant experience.
Tampere Film Festival – March 5–9, 2025
The Tampere Film Festival in Finland is a haven for film lovers. Known for its impressive selection of short films from across the world, the festival hosts over 500 films, making it one of Europe’s most notable short film festivals. The event also provides a unique opportunity for filmmakers to showcase their work and engage in discussions with fellow industry professionals.
Holi Festival – March 6, 2025
The Holi Festival, or Festival of Colors, is one of the most joyous and widely celebrated festivals in India and Nepal. Holi marks the arrival of spring and celebrates the victory of good over evil. On this day, people gather to throw colored powder at each other, sing, dance, and enjoy traditional foods. It’s a festival that embraces unity, joy, and new beginnings.
Sofia International Film Festival – March 13–31, 2025
The Sofia International Film Festival is a major cinematic event in Bulgaria, bringing world-class films to Sofia’s theaters. With a lineup of contemporary films from around the globe, the festival offers a diverse selection of genres, including drama, documentaries, and experimental films. This is an exciting event for film enthusiasts looking to discover new talents and groundbreaking cinema.
St. Patrick’s Day Parade – March 17, 2025
St. Patrick’s Day is celebrated worldwide, but the parades in New York, Chicago, and Dublin are some of the most iconic. The St. Patrick’s Day Parade in 2025 will feature vibrant floats, marching bands, Irish dancers, and, of course, lots of green! Whether in Ireland or the United States, this celebration of Irish culture is an event full of joy and tradition.
Mardi Gras – March 4, 2025
Held in New Orleans, Mardi Gras is a colorful explosion of parades, costumes, and festivities. The festival is an essential part of the cultural fabric of New Orleans, with spectacular parades, street parties, and the famous King Cake being enjoyed by all. Mardi Gras marks the last day of feasting before the start of Lent, and it’s an experience filled with tradition, music, and indulgence.
Techkriti – March 27–31, 2025
The Techkriti festival, held at IIT Kanpur, is one of India’s largest technical festivals. This exciting event brings together some of the brightest minds in technology, offering workshops, competitions, and talks on a wide range of technological innovations. Whether you’re a student or a tech enthusiast, Techkriti is a great opportunity to explore new ideas and get involved in cutting-edge technology.
Cherry Blossom Festival – March 20–April 10, 2025
The Cherry Blossom Festival in Washington D.C. celebrates the beauty of the cherry blossoms as they bloom. The festival is an annual event that features cultural performances, art exhibitions, outdoor activities, and, of course, breathtaking views of the cherry trees in full bloom. It’s a peaceful, beautiful event perfect for nature lovers and those wanting to experience the beauty of spring.
Kyoto Hanami Festival – March 25–April 5, 2025
The Kyoto Hanami Festival celebrates the arrival of spring with the blooming of cherry blossoms, known as sakura in Japan. The festival is steeped in tradition, and visitors gather for picnics under the blooming cherry trees, enjoying food, drinks, and the beauty of nature. This cultural event is one of the best ways to experience traditional Japanese customs and the joy of spring.
Tibetan New Year (Losar) – March 3, 2025
The Tibetan New Year, known as Losar, is celebrated by Tibetans in Tibet, Nepal, and India. It marks the start of the Tibetan lunar calendar and is a time for family gatherings, prayers, offerings, and feasts. The festival includes traditional rituals to ensure a prosperous year ahead, and the streets are filled with processions and colorful celebrations.
Key Festivals in March 2025
| Festival Name | Date | Location | Type | Description |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cheltenham Festival | March 11–14, 2025 | Cheltenham, UK | Horse Racing | One of the UK’s most prestigious horse racing events. Featuring 28 races over four days. Expect intense competition, socializing, and a rich history. |
| Tampere Film Festival | March 5–9, 2025 | Tampere, Finland | Film Festival | A top European festival showcasing over 500 short films. A great opportunity to see emerging filmmakers’ works. |
| Holi Festival | March 6, 2025 | India, Nepal, and Worldwide | Cultural Festival | Known as the Festival of Colors, Holi is celebrated with exuberance and joy, marking the arrival of spring. It is an important Hindu festival. |
| Sofia International Film Festival | March 13–31, 2025 | Sofia, Bulgaria | Film Festival | A renowned film festival in Sofia, showcasing international films and cultural dialogues. |
| St. Patrick’s Day Parade | March 17, 2025 | Worldwide (especially USA & Ireland) | Cultural Parade | A global celebration of Irish culture, featuring parades, music, and vibrant festivities. |
| Mardi Gras | March 4, 2025 | New Orleans, USA | Cultural Parade | A vibrant event marked by parades, colorful costumes, and festivities to celebrate Fat Tuesday before Lent. |
| Techkriti | March 27–31, 2025 | Kanpur, India | Technical Festival | One of India’s biggest technical festivals, bringing together innovators to explore tech, robotics, and innovation. |
| Cherry Blossom Festival | March 20–April 10, 2025 | Washington D.C., USA | Cultural Celebration | A beautiful celebration of the cherry blossom season, featuring cultural events, traditional performances, and outdoor activities. |
| Kyoto Hanami Festival | March 25–April 5, 2025 | Kyoto, Japan | Cultural Festival | A traditional Japanese festival to admire cherry blossoms in bloom, celebrated with outdoor picnics and traditional tea ceremonies. |
| Tibetan New Year (Losar) | March 3, 2025 | Tibet, Nepal, India | Religious Festival | A major Buddhist festival celebrating the Tibetan New Year, marked by prayers, offerings, and celebrations. |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
When is the Cheltenham Festival?
The Cheltenham Festival takes place from March 11 to 14, 2025, in Cheltenham, UK.
What is the Holi Festival?
Holi is a Hindu festival celebrated on March 6, 2025, where people throw colored powder at each other, marking the arrival of spring and the victory of good over evil.
How long does the Sofia International Film Festival last?
The Sofia International Film Festival runs from March 13 to March 31, 2025, and features films from around the world.
What is celebrated during St. Patrick’s Day?
St. Patrick’s Day, on March 17, 2025, celebrates Irish culture, with parades, music, and traditional Irish symbols.
What is Techkriti?
Techkriti is an annual technical festival held at IIT Kanpur, India, focusing on technology, innovation, and robotics. It runs from March 27 to March 31, 2025.
