Most holidays and remembered dates celebrate the birth of someone or something. For instance, Read Across America Day is a nationwide reading celebration that takes place annually on March 2 – is Dr. Seuss’s (Theodore Geisel) birthday. Across the nation, schools, libraries, and community centers participate by bringing kids together with books. Read Across America Day calls for children in every community to celebrate reading on the birthday of this beloved children’s author.
However, Saint Patrick’s Day celebrates the Catholic feast of Saint Patrick, whose traditional date of death is March 17. It is believed that Saint Patrick brought Christianity to Ireland.
March 6, National Frozen Food Day, celebrates all those yummy foods and snacks in your freezer. The invention of the freezer made this day possible. You think maybe frozen food manufacturers had a hand in creating this one?
And, March 8 is the beginning of Daylight Savings Time this year. Begun in an effort to help save energy, and provide workers with more hours of serviceable daylight during long summer days, Daylight Savings Time was first introduced in the U.S. in 1918. However, it was not until 1966, when the Uniform Act was passed, that all states had to either observe DST or pass a state law to abstain.
Given a little imagination, any day can become a “holiday.” So, get out and celebrate every day this month. Here’s a sample of things to do in March all around Florida:
March 5 – 7: Sanibel Shell Fair and Show, Sanibel Island. In celebration of this world-renowned shelling island, the 89th Annual Shell Fair features shell displays and crafts, food, and entertainment. The fair takes place inside and outside of the Community House, 2173 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel. A $5 suggested donation for inside exhibits. Free Parking. For information, go to sanibelshellclub.com/89th-shell-show/http://sanibelshellclub.com/89th-shell-show/
March 5 – 8: Amelia Island Concours d’Elegance, Amelia Island. The car connoisseurs bring you another annual event such as Cars & Coffee, RM Sotheby’s Island sale preview, and a silent auction at the Ritz Carlton, Amelia Island. For tickets and information, go to ameliaconcours.com/
March 5 – 8: NHRA Gatornationals, Gainesville. The Amalie Oil NHRA Gatornationals has a long history as the East Coast opener for the NHRA Full Throttle Drag Racing Series. 11211 N County Road 225, Gainesville. For information, go gainesvilleraceway.com/
March 7: Conch Shell Blowing Contest, Key West. The annual Conch Shell Blowing Contest, sponsored by Old Island Restoration Foundation is hosting its 63rd Anniversary. This event is free and open to children and adults of all ages. Conch shells will be available for purchase for those who do not have their own. Hours – 10:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Location: Oldest House Museum & Garden, 322 Duval Street. For information, go to keywestconcierge.com/events/conch-shell-blowing-contest/
Through March 8: Bike Week, Daytona Beach. This 85th annual event and rally is one of the largest motorcycle gatherings around the world. Daily concerts, including Selwyn Birchwood Band, bike shows, a campground concert with Blu Diamond and others. Expect more than 500,000 motorcycles at the event. For information, go to officialbikeweek.com/
Through March 8: Florida Strawberry Festival, Plant City. Strawberry celebration dating back to 1930. Features daily entertainment, agriculture shows, livestock and the Midway with more than 60 rides. This year headliners include The Bellamy Brothers, The Marshall Tucker Band, Joan Jett and The Blackhearts, and many more. Gate admission ranges from $5 to $15, and headliner’s tickets are sold separately. At Plant City Festival Grounds. For information, go to flstrawberryfestival.com/
March 12 – 15: All-Florida Championship Rodeo, Arcadia. This annual rodeo includes Calf Scramble, Mutton Bustin’, Barrel Racing, Shootout and more. Located at the new Mosaic Arena. 2450 NE Roan Street. Arcadia, 34266. Premium Plus $75 (22″ Chairs with armrest); Premium $65 (22″ Chairs no armrest); General Admission $45 (22″ Aluminum bleacher no back). Concessions and vendors are available on site. For tickets and information, go to arcadiarodeo.com/march-rodeo.html
March 18 – 21: Mobil 1 Twelve Hours of Sebring, Sebring. Sebring International Raceway hosts race fans from around the world to witness the historic 12-hour classic. Gates open on Wednesday and remain open 24 hours a day through Saturday’s title race.For information, go to sebringraceway.com/events/mobil-1-twelve-hours-of-sebring-4/
