Free & Paid Things To Do in New York City This March 2026
March always brings that in-between feeling, when winter starts to loosen its grip, but plans still matter. You might be itching to get out more, switch up your routine, or finally pencil in something fun after work. In this guide to free & paid things to do in New York City this March 2026, I’ve pulled together events, activities, and experiences that fit real schedules and real moods. You’ll find city favorites, low-key plans, and a few standout ideas just outside the city when a quick trip sounds refreshing.
Event details change, so make sure to check the official source for the latest updates before you go. Keep in mind that even if a show is free, you might still need to RSVP to secure entry, and you’ll still want to bring some extra cash for refreshments or special venue activities.
Things to Do in NYC This March (2026): Parades, Festivals & Concerts
Free Fun Events
Grand Bazaar NYC
100 West 77th St., New York
This weekend market mixes vintage finds, handmade goods, and food vendors while supporting local public schools. It’s an easy way to shop small and spend a slow afternoon browsing.
- March Madness Bazaar (March 1)
- Women-Owned Business Bazaar (March 8)
- NYC Art Bazaar (March 15)
- Spring Bazaar (March 22)
St. Patrick’s Day Parade
March 17, 2026 | Begins on 5th Avenue at 44th Street
One of the city’s oldest traditions takes over Fifth Avenue with bagpipes, marching bands, and plenty of green. The parade feels lively without being overwhelming and remains a staple of things to do in March 2026 and early spring.
Art X Fashion
Until April 19, 2026 | Museum at the Fashion Institute of Technology
This museum at the FIT exhibition explores how art and fashion have influenced each other across centuries. It’s visually rich without feeling heavy, perfect for a relaxed museum visit.
Paid & Ticketed Things To Do
Salon du Chocolat
March 7-8, 2026 | Center 415
Chocolate lovers will want to block this weekend off. With tastings, demos, and international chocolatiers under one roof, this event is indulgent in the best possible way.
Big East Tournament
March 11-14, 2026 | Madison Square Garden
High energy hits NYC as college basketball fans pack the arena for the Big East Tournament. Even if you’re not loyal to a team, the atmosphere alone makes this a fun spectator event.
United Airlines NYC Half
March 15, 2026 | Kicks off in Brooklyn
The NYC Half turns the city into a racecourse, with runners passing landmarks most people only see from sidewalks. Even non-runners enjoy cheering from the sidelines, especially in Times Square.
Brooklyn SeltzerFest 2026
March 15, 2026 | Brooklyn Seltzer Museum
SeltzerFest is playful, fizzy, and educational. Between tastings, egg cream competitions, and interactive exhibits, it’s a quirky highlight of the month.
Asia Week New York
March 19-27, 2026 | Multiple venues
Asia Week brings together galleries, auctions, and exhibitions celebrating Asian art across centuries and styles. It’s a highlight for collectors and casual visitors alike, and a strong pick for anyone tracking NYC festivals 2026.
Outsider Art Fair
March 19-22, 2026 | Metropolitan Pavilion
The Outsider Art Fair spotlights artists working outside the traditional art world, with pieces that feel raw, personal, and deeply expressive. It’s a great stop if you enjoy discovering work that doesn’t look or feel like anything else in a gallery.
25th Flamenco Festival
Until March 8, 2026 | New York City Center
This milestone edition brings powerhouse flamenco performers straight from Spain. The mix of tradition and contemporary flair makes every show feel electric.
New York International Children’s Film Festival
Until March 15, 2026 | Multiple venues
This long-running festival proves that kids’ films can be just as thoughtful and creative as adult cinema. Expect animated shorts, international features, and stories that keep both kids and parents interested, making it one of the more unique things to do in NYC this March 2026.
Concerts
Three Days Grace
March 12, 2026 | UBS Arena
Three Days Grace brings their signature hard rock energy to the stage with heavy riffs, raw emotion, and a setlist packed with classics that fans still scream along to. Expect a loud, cathartic night fueled by hits like Animal I Have Become and Pain.
New Edition
March 14, 2026 | Barclays Center
Before boy bands ruled pop radio, New Edition set the blueprint, and they’re still proving why. And this tour mixes nostalgia, smooth harmonies, and extra star power with special guests Boyz II Men and Toni Braxton.
Brandon Lake
March 15, 2026 | UBS Arena
Brandon Lake’s live shows feel equal parts powerful and personal, blending worship anthems with moments that hit close to home. Fans of faith-driven music will hear tracks from King of Hearts alongside the songs that earned him multiple Grammy wins.
Lady Gaga
March 19-20, 2026 | Madison Square Garden
Lady Gaga’s Mayhem tour is big and theatrical, with bold visuals and a setlist that moves between pop spectacle and darker synth-driven moments. This is one of those concerts people will still talk about long after the lights go down.
Ramon Ayala
March 21, 2026 | UBS Arena
Ramon Ayala takes the stage for a heartfelt farewell tour celebrating decades of Norteño classics. It’s a rare chance to hear the songs that shaped generations, performed by one of the genre’s true legends.
FKA twigs
March 21, 2026 | Madison Square Garden
FKA twigs turns a concert into a full sensory experience, blending music, movement, and striking visuals into something closer to performance art. Every moment feels intentional, intimate, and unlike anything else on the calendar.
Zara Larsson
March 24, 2026 | Brooklyn Paramount
Zara Larsson’s Midnight Sun Tour leans into glossy pop, strong vocals, and a high-energy crowd-ready set. It’s the kind of show that feels effortless, fun, and perfect for a night out with friends.
Cardi B
March 25-26, 2026 | Madison Square Garden
Cardi B brings pure main-character energy to the stage, mixing viral hits, bold visuals, and zero-filter attitude. If you’ve been tracking concerts in New York March 2026, this late-March stop still deserves a spot on your must-see list.
Up for a Drink With a View?
If you’re sticking around the city before or after a concert or show, it might be the perfect excuse to head upstairs. This guide to 20+ Best Rooftop Patios in NYC rounds up skyline spots that are great for post-show cocktails, late-night bites, or just enjoying the city lights without rushing home.
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