March reminds us that while spring may be on our doorstep (it arrives on the 20th), winter is not quite read to loosen its frosty grip. The good news is that there are plenty of events on the calendar that will keep us entertained.
Philadelphia Flower Show
March 1-9
Pennsylvania Convention Center
Just in time to get you inspired for a new season of gardening, the theme for 2025’s show is Gardens of Tomorrow, which will take you into a new world of imaginative designs and boundless inspiration. Visitors will explore the future through the eyes of visionary designers, expert gardeners and passionate green enthusiasts as they merge nature’s brilliance with human ingenuity. The show will also feature the world’s biggest plant competition, unique shopping experiences, behind-the-scenes tours, activities for all ages and the Know to Grow speaker series.
Now in its 196th year, the award-winning show is sponsored by the Pennsylvania Horticultural Society (PHS) and serves as its main fundraiser to support impactful greening work that advances health and well-being in the region. General hours are 10 a.m.-8 p.m. (closing at 6 p.m. on March 9). 1101 Arch St., Philadelphia. Information: Phsonline.org
The Hunchback of Notre Dame
March 1-9
CAVOD Theatre
Based on the Victor Hugo novel, with songs from the Disney animated feature, The Hunchback of Notre Dame begins as the bells of Notre Dame sound through the famed cathedral in 15th century Paris. Quasimodo is the deformed bell-ringer who longs to be “Out There,” but is held captive by his devious caretaker, the archdeacon Dom Claude Frollo. Quasimodo escapes for the day, only to be treated cruelly by all but the beautiful Esmeralda. He isn’t the only one captivated by her free spirit, though – the handsome Captain Phoebus and Frollo are equally enthralled. As the three vie for her attention, Frollo embarks on a mission to destroy the Roma – and it’s up to Quasimodo to save them all. Times vary. 641 W. Main St., New Holland. Information: CAVOD.org
Maker Monday
March 3, 10, 17, 24, 31
The Felted Fox
Every Monday, The Felted Fox hosts a weekly workshop that’s devoted to felting. Projects vary from month to month. While there’s no fee for the workshop, participants must purchase the project kit. Registration is required. 6-8 p.m. 2029 Miller Rd., East Petersburg. Information: Felted-fox.com
Fasnacht Day!
March 4
Lancaster County
It’s the time of the year to indulge in that Lancaster County puff of dough that pays homage to the German tradition in which items like lard, sugar and butter were used up ahead of the Lenten season. Today, these delectable treats can be eaten plain or covered in a glaze, cinnamon or powdered sugar. Churches and fire companies make and sell fasnachts as fundraisers. Stores, bakeries and markets are also sources for the treats.
First Friday @ The Lancaster Science Factory
March 7
Lancaster Science Factory
Each First Friday, The Lancaster Science Factory offers free admission to children in grades K-8 and their families. Here, students with an interest in STEM will be able to explore more than 70 interactive exhibits. 5-7 p.m. (Note: this event is held every First Friday.) 454 New Holland Ave., Lancaster. Information: lancastersciencefactory.org
Run4Luck
March 8
Baker Field
The Junior League of Lancaster is hosting its 20th annual Run4Luck event that welcomes the participation of kids (Fun Run) and adults (4-mile run or 2-mile walk). The walking/running route winds through School Lane Hills. Awards will be presented. Proceeds benefit the Junior League’s mission to better communities through volunteerism. As the JLL celebrates this milestone event, its members look forward to welcoming back past participants and Junior League of Lancaster supporters. Events begin at 8 a.m. Baker Field, Wilson Dr. & Clayton Rd., Lancaster. Information: Jllancaster.org
Charter Day
March 9
PA-managed historical sites and museums
The Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission welcomes residents and visitors to celebrate the Commonwealth’s 343rd birthday by visiting museums and historical sites that are operated by the state, where free admission will be in effect. Such sites in the area will include Landis Valley Village and Farm Museum, Ephrata Cloister, Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania (all in Lancaster County), Cornwall Iron Furnace (Lebanon County), Daniel Boone Homestead (Berks County), and the State Museum (Harrisburg), where the original charter issued from King Charles II to William Penn will be on view. Information: Phmc.pa.gov, as well as the individual websites of museums and historical sites.
Sip & Clip Bonsai Workshop
March 13
Nissley Vineyards/Tanger Outlets
Explore the Japanese art form known as bonsai with your hosts Steven and Nate, who together have been studying bonsai for 20 years. Following a brief discussion of styles and design, you will select your tree, prune, pot and then shape your very own masterpiece to take home. The workshop includes a complimentary wine tasting (age 21+), a tree, a pot, soil, chopstick, wire (if needed), a small pair of pruners and a how-to-care-for guide. Wine by the glass/bottle, as well as light snacks, will be available for purchase. You are welcome to bring your own food and outside non-alcoholic beverages. 5:30 p.m. 301 Stanley K. Tanger Dr., Lancaster. Information: Nissleywine.com
Little Women, The Musical
March 14-April 12
Servant Stage
This stage adaptation of Louisa May Alcott’s beloved novel follows the lives of the four March sisters — Jo, Meg, Beth, and Amy — as they navigate personal growth, family bonds, love, and loss during the Civil War era. With music by Jason Howland, lyrics by Mindi Dickstein, and a book by Allan Knee, the musical highlights the strengths, ambitions and creativity of the sisters, particularly Jo, the aspiring writer. It combines heartwarming moments with an uplifting score, capturing the timeless themes of resilience, hope and the pursuit of dreams. Times and locations vary. Information: Servantstage.org
The Fly Fishing Show
March 15-16
Lancaster County Convention Center
Spring is just around the corner, which means fishing season will soon arrive. According to the Outdoor Foundation, 6 to 10 million people now engage in fly fishing on an annual basis. If you’re interested in joining the ranks, the show will provide you with plenty of information, as it will feature classes, demonstrations, seminars, tying advice, vendors and even a film festival. Saturday, 9 a.m.-5 :30 p.m. Sunday, 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m. (Note: admission at the door is cash only; tickets can be pre-purchased online.) 25 S. Queen St., Lancaster. Information: flyfishingshow.com/Lancaster-pa
Lancaster County Woodcarvers’ Show
March 15-16
Millersville University
Lancaster County Woodcarvers is celebrating the 50th anniversary of its show, with the theme, Wonders in Wood. Vendors, sister clubs and artists will be participating. This year’s guest carver is Joe You, a California resident who began carving in 1991 and is now known for his caricature carvings. The show will also feature demonstrations, lectures, a silent auction, door prizes, competitions and more. Saturday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Sunday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Student Memorial Center, 108 Shenks Lane, Millersville. Information: Lancarvers.com
Doug Tallamy
March 15
Bright Side Baptist Church
Bright Side Baptist Church and the Alliance for the Chesapeake Bay will welcome Doug Tallamy, the T. A. Baker Professor of Agriculture in the Department of Entomology and Wildlife Ecology at the University of Delaware, where he has authored 106 research publications and has taught insect-related courses for 41 years. His books include Bringing Nature Home, The Living Landscape (co-authored with Rick Darke), Nature’s Best Hope (a New York Times Best Seller), and The Nature of Oaks (winner of the American Horticultural Society’s 2022 book award). In 2021 he cofounded Homegrown National Park with Michelle Alfandari.
Tallamy will share his philosophy that choosing the right plants for our landscapes will not only address the biodiversity crisis but will help the climate crisis, as well. His lecture will also mirror his next book, How Can I Help?, which will be released in April. 1 p.m. 515 Hershey Ave., Lancaster. Information: Eventbrite.com
Baroque Laments to Romantic Triumphs
March 21-22
Gardner Theatre
The Lancaster Symphony’s program will feature John Dowland’s Lachrimae Antiquae and Tchaikovsky’s Symphony No. 5. You’ll also experience the emotional depth and technical mastery pianist Norman Krieger brings to Mozart’s Piano Concerto No. 24 in C minor. Krieger, who is regarded as one of the most acclaimed pianists of his generation, has performed across the world. A Los Angeles native, he began studying at Julliard at the age of 15. Krieger is the founding artistic director of the Prince Albert Music Festival in Hawaii. Since 2008, he has served on the summer faculty at the Brevard Music Festival in North Carolina. From 1997 to 2016, he was a professor at the Thornton School of Music at the University of Southern California. In August 2016 he was appointed Professor of Piano at the Jacobs School of Music at Indiana University. Friday, 7:30 p.m. Saturday, 2:30 & 7:30 p.m. 725 Hamilton Rd., Lancaster. Information: Lancastersymphony.org
St. Pooch’s Day Carnival
March 22
Shops @ Rockvale
Now in its 6th year, the event was created to help raise awareness for area animal rescue organizations. The event will feature pet rescues, adoptable pets, demonstrations, family-friendly activities, raffles, a mini makers market, food trucks, live music, games and more. 11 a.m.-3 p.m. 35 S. Willowdale Dr., Lancaster. Information: Shoprockvale.com
Themed Dinner/Mardi Gras & Bourbon Street
March 27
John Wright Restaurant
John Wright Restaurant takes you to New Orleans via a menu that features Cajun favorites such as Shrimp & Grits, Gator Sausage, Shrimp Jambalaya, Dirty Rice and more. 6 p.m. 234 N. Front St., Wrightsville. Information: Jwrpa.com
Lancaster City Restaurant Week
March 31-April 6
Dozens of restaurants, cafés, bakeries, bars and pubs will be participating in this spring edition of the event that celebrates the city’s culinary diversity, with most offering promotions throughout the week. Here’s your chance to support a favorite eatery or discover a new one. Information: Lancastercityrestaurantweek.com
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