If you haven’t started revving up for more fun in the city, now is the time. Check out our picks for Chicago’s best March events.
Chicago Beer Festival
Photo Credit: Chicago Beer Festival via Eventbrite
March 3
From 8pm – 11pm (or starting at 7pm for VIP guests), try seasonal spring brews from 70 breweries at Chicago’s iconic Field Museum, where you can also enjoy food, music, and tour select museum exhibits. Tickets are $45 for general admission and $55 for VIP.
CHIditarod
Photo Credit: Kirstie Shanley for Chiditarod
March 3
Also known as the Chicago Urban Shopping Cart Race, this fun run through Wicker Park and Ukrainian Village takes place on the same day as the real Alaskan Iditarod, except this race consists of teams of five costumed people collecting food for charity, and every year is a blast.
Country Day Party
Photo Credit: Country Day Party
March 3
Grab your cowboy boots, hat, and daisy dukes, because this is about to be the best country-themed party of the year. Make your way to Old Crow Smokehouse for beer, a brunch buffet, and live country music. Tickets start at $50, but be sure to look out for discounts!
Chicago’s Birthday
March 4
It’s the big 1-8-1 for the Windy City this year! On this day in 1837, Chicago was incorporated as a city, and 181 years later, it’s still going strong. Wondering how to celebrate? We recommend asking yourself, “What’s my favorite thing about Chicago?” Find it, then do it.
Windy City Brewhaha
Photo Credit: Windy City Brewhaha
March 10
A little more beer on any list is a good thing, in our opinion. In two sessions from 1pm – 4pm and 6pm – 9pm, this event for beer lovers of all backgrounds takes place for its sixth year at The Geraghty. Early bird general admission tickets are $42 before they raise to $52, and VIP tickets are $62. A max of 15 three-ounce pours are served per person each session.
Pretty Woman: The Musical
Photo Credit: Chicagoland Musical Theatre
March 13
Your mom’s favorite romantic comedy is getting a life-sized reboot. The Cinderella story of a Los Angeles hooker who falls in love with a wealthy businessman gets a live stage adaptation, premiering in Chicago this spring. Tickets start at $50.
Chicago Flower & Garden Show
March 14 – March 18
Visit Navy Pier to see over 20 life-sized gardens, participate in gardening seminars and DIY workshops, and collect fun items from a floral marketplace. They’ve even got activities for kids too. This event from the Chicago Horticulture Society runs multiple sessions Wednesday through Sunday. Tickets range from $10 – $15 for adults depending on the session, and are $5 for kids ages 4-12.
St. Patrick’s Day Events
March 17 – March 18
There’s no doubt that Chicago is one of the best places on Earth to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day, other than maybe an actual city in Ireland, of course. The entire city is going green and there’s no escaping the Irish spirit that will take over Chicago. Stay tuned for our in-depth guide that will share every single event taking place for St. Pat’s.
Chicago Tattoo Arts Convention
March 23 – 25
Head to the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center in Rosemont to witness the best tattoo artists in the country doing what they do best. Watch live tattooing and seminars by your favorite tatted icons and enjoy freakishly fun entertainment from contortionists and burlesque dancers. Tickets are $20 for a day pass, $40 for a three-day pass, and kids under 12 are free.
Randolph Street Market Festival
Photo Credit: Youtube
March 24 – March 25
One of the largest street festivals in Chicago takes place on famous Randolph Street, and the spring edition is always a blast. Spend your weekend perusing the unique booths on Randolph while you enjoy crafts, food, drinks, and more. General admission tickets are $8 online and $10 at the door.