Regardless of what Punxsutawney Phil says, spring activities will be underway this March! It's time to get outside, explore and maybe even celebrate one of your favorite holidays. Here are a few ideas for things to do in The Bend this March. Don't forget to embrace the Madness!

St. Patrick's Day Parade 

Scheduled for March 14, the St. Patrick's Day parade in downtown South Bend is a fun way to celebrate the holiday. After the parade ends, those lining the streets head to the East Race Waterway for the river to be turned green.

St. Patrick's Day Events

Zoo Luminate

A spectacular lantern festival made of huge, luminous, artistic lanterns returns to Potawatomi Zoo! In partnership with Tianyu, an experienced lantern festival producer, Zoo Luminate will bring more than 60 lantern displays to life. The lanterns will only be on display from March 18 to May 24, so don't miss out on this unique experience. Winter Days at the Zoo will also still be taking place March 1, 7-8 and 14-15.

 

Zoo Luminate Dragon

Experience Broadway in The Bend

Everyone’s favorite Scottish nanny is headed to South Bend when MRS. DOUBTFIRE hits the Morris stage March 13-15. The hilarious sequal to the smash-hit Menopause The Musical, Menopause the Musical 2: Cruising Through 'The Change' floats into town March 22. Enjoy broadway in The Bend at Morris Performing Arts Center all year long.

Sugar Camp Days 

One of our favorite annual traditions, Sugar Camp Days returns March 14-15 to Bendix Woods County Park as we celebrate the coming of spring by making maple syrup. Visitors can tour the Sugar Bush, learn more about the syrup-making process and explore the park with other family friendly activities.

March Madness in South Bend

What sports fan doesn't love the madness of March? The NCAA men's and women's basketball tournaments tip off March 19 and 20. There are plenty of sports bars around The Bend to spend full days of game watching. Here's our list of the 8 best spots to watch March Madness.

RELATED CONTENT: March Madness in South Bend

Head Out for a Hike 

As The Bend thaws out from winter, everyone wants to head outside. Late winter or the early days of spring are a great time to visit some of our best places for a hike. 

Spring Sports at Notre Dame

The NCAA basketball tournaments will be underway but so will spring sports at Notre Dame! The back-to-back National Champions, Notre Dame men's lacrosse, return to the pitch as well as women's lacrosse, baseball and softball. Check the Spring Sports at Notre Dame schedules and catch the action for free.

Midwest Meow Fest

The Midwest Meow Fest is a puuurfect way for cat and animal lovers to spend a Saturday! Celebrate and enjoy all things feline at the Century Center March 21.

2026 South Bend Auto Show

Get ready for a weekend packed with horsepower, nostalgia, and show-stopping style! The South Bend Auto Show returns to the Century Center March 28-29. Explore the region’s top muscle cars, vintage classics, race cars, custom builds, and bikes—all under one roof. Whether you’re a lifelong gearhead or just love a good shine and rev, there’s something for everyone.

Events Around The Bend

Winter Restaurant Weeks Feb 07

Winter Restaurant Weeks

Downtown Restaurant Weeks are back! From January 23 to February 8, you've got the time to taste, sip…

Comedy Night Feb 19

Comedy Night

Get ready to laugh, sip, and settle in for a night of comedy at Bar Louie Granger! We’re serving up…

Daddy Daughter Dance Feb 20

Daddy Daughter Dance

Get ready to boogie, glow, and shine at our DiscGlo Daddy Daughter Dance—where disco meets…

Mother Son Dance Feb 21

Mother Son Dance

Get ready to boogie, glow, and shine at our DiscGlo Mother Son Dance—where disco meets…