The average temperature in New York City in March is 51 degrees F; you can experience frost, or very warm temperatures, but generally it will be too cold to eat outdoors, but the ideal temperature for strolling through different neighborhoods. Keep in mind that a blizzard hit New York in March 1993, and a snowstorm hit the city in 2010. Be prepared for a range of temperatures.
New York's St. Patrick's Day Parade is the world's largest parade and takes places in March. The parade, from 44th to 86th streets along Fifth Avenue, has been held annually since 1762. Arrive early for a spot close to the curb, so you can see the bands, bagpipers and floats. Much of the city celebrates the holiday, whatever their heritage. Find green bagels and drink specials at bars throughout the five boroughs. The parade starts at 11 a.m. and ends around 5 p.m.
The Jewish holiday of Purim, a wild bacchanal where Jews are encouraged to drink, generally falls sometime in March. The holiday is like a Jewish Halloween, and kids dress up for events at The Jewish Museum, Yeshiva University Museum. Jewish Children's Museum in Brooklyn, The Children's Galleries for Jewish Culture, 92nd Street Y and The Jewish Community Center in Manhattan. These events often feature concerts and are open to those of all religious faiths.
March is usually too early for baseball, too late for football. But in 2011, the New York Yankees open their season at home on March 31. For more sports, the New York Knicks play basketball and the New York Rangers play hockey, both at Madison Square Garden. New York City also boasts many sports bar, which have specials centered around March Madness NCAA Basketball games.
