12+ Best Things to Do in New York City This Week (March 9–15)
Mid-March in NYC is weird. One day you need a puffer coat, the next you’re sweating on the subway platform. But the days are finally getting longer, the seasonal depression is lifting, and suddenly you’re asking yourself, “Should I actually leave my apartment this week?”
The answer is yes.
I’ve pulled together a guide for this week (March 9–15, 2026) to help you navigate the chaos. Whether you want to scream-sing at a concert or just look at some flowers in the Bronx, here’s what’s actually happening.
And a quick heads-up: double-check the official links before you swipe your MetroCard. Schedules change. Also, remember that “free” usually means “RSVP required,” and you’re definitely going to spend money on food once you get there.
Things to Do in New York City This Week (March 9–15)
Free Fun Events
NYC Art Bazaar
March 15, 2026 | 100 West 77th St., New York
If you like buying art directly from the people who made it, this NYC market is for you. Expect paintings, ceramics, photography, and plenty of one-of-a-kind pieces you won’t see anywhere else. It’s an easy way to support local creatives and pick up something meaningful.
Art x Fashion
Until April 19, 2026 | Museum at the Fashion Institute of Technology
At the Museum at FIT, this exhibition connects fashion and fine art across centuries, without feeling stuffy. You’ll see how designers and artists have influenced each other in ways that still show up on runways today. It’s a great midweek option for things to do Wednesday NYC when you want something inspiring but low-key.
Paid & Ticketed Things To Do
Big East Tournament
March 11-14, 2026 | Madison Square Garden
March basketball at Madison Square Garden? The Big East Tournament brings packed student sections, alumni pride, and nonstop energy from tip-off to buzzer. Even if you don’t follow every team, the atmosphere alone makes this one of the major events in New York City this week.
Go early and grab food at Mustang Harry’s, or celebrate a win with beers at Stout NYC right across from the arena.
New York City St. Patrick’s Day 2026 Bar Crawl
March 13, 2026 | Starts at Coyote Ugly Saloon
If you want one plan and zero decision-making, this NYC crawl makes it easy. You’ll bounce between multiple bars, skip cover charges, and end the night with full-on St. Patrick’s Day party energy. It’s chaotic in a fun, planned way.
St. Patrick’s 3-Day Pass East Village Crawl
March 13-18, 2026 | Multiple venues
This option is better if you don’t want to cram everything into one night. The East Village crawl lets you spread the celebration across several days, with drink specials and lively crowds all weekend. Ideal if you’re deciding what to do in NYC on a Monday night and still want St. Paddy’s vibes.
If you are interested in exploring more ways to celebrate the holiday across the city, take a look at our guide toSt. Patrick’s Events in New York City 2026.
United Airlines NYC Half
March 15, 2026 | Kicks off in Brooklyn
Running or cheering? Either way, the NYC Half is electric. Watching runners cross the Brooklyn Bridge, race through Times Square, and finish in Central Park turns a regular Sunday into something special. It’s also a great reminder of how alive the city feels during the NYC festivals 2026 season.
Brooklyn SeltzerFest 2026
March 15, 2026 | Brooklyn Seltzer Museum
Seven hours of seltzer tastings, egg cream competitions, art, music, and surprises at Industry City. This is the kind of niche event in NYC that ends up being way more fun than you expect, especially if you like discovering unique traditions.
The Orchid Show: Mr. Flower Fantastic’s Concrete Jungle
Until April 26, 2026 | New York Botanical Garden
This exhibition keeps delivering. Orchids take over the New York Botanical Garden with city-inspired designs that feel playful and surprisingly immersive. It’s calm, colorful, and a nice break from the usual pace of the week.
Must-Catch Concerts & Shows
Three Days Grace
March 12, 2026 | UBS Arena
If you grew up yelling “I Hate Everything About You” in your car, this concert will feel like a full-circle moment. Three Days Grace still brings serious energy live, with a setlist packed with throwback hits and heavy riffs. It’s a strong pick for things to do in NYC 2026 if you want something loud and cathartic.
New Edition
March 14, 2026 | Barclays Center
New Edition, joined by Boyz II Men and Toni Braxton, turns one night into a greatest-hits celebration. Expect big sing-alongs, throwback outfits, and a crowd that knows every word. Start the night with a relaxed dinner at The Simpson, then head to the show feeling fully warmed up.
Brandon Lake
March 15, 2026 | UBS Arena
Brandon Lake’s live shows feel powerful and personal, whether you know every lyric or you’re just discovering his music. With Grammy wins and chart-topping songs behind him, this concert lands somewhere between intimate and arena-level emotional.
FAQs
What’s on in New York in March 2026?
March is packed with sports tournaments, seasonal festivals, concerts, art markets, and early spring exhibitions. It’s one of those months where there’s always something happening, no matter your mood.
Is March a good month to visit NYC?
Absolutely. You get big events without summer crowds, cooler weather for walking, and plenty of indoor options when you want to warm up.
What are the top five things to see in New York City?
Broadway or live concerts, major sports games, iconic museums, seasonal festivals, and classic outdoor spots like Central Park usually top the list for first-timers and locals alike.
Paint the town green (without seeing red in your bank account)
New York City goes all out for St. Paddy’s, but the “luck of the Irish” usually doesn’t apply to your bank account once the holiday cover charges and $20 cocktails start rolling in. If you are interested in joining the sea of green without breaking the bank, take a look at our guide on How to Experience St. Patrick’s Day in New York City on a Budget.
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