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Make a Splash at These Joyful March Events in California

Whale sightings, desert art and more…

Mardi Gras Parade and Street Fair

March 1

Nevada City has been known to throw a party, and its version of Fat Tuesday is no exception. People come just for this colorful annual event that lights up the streets with bright costumes, beads and a sense of playfulness. Come early for lunch and shopping. The Street Fair on N. Pine Street will be open from 12pm-4pm, you can find accessories for your perfect costume, shop hand-made gifts, eco-vendors, masks, food, drinks, and more. Parade starts at 2 p.m.

Dana Point Festival of the Whales

March 7-9

This festival pays homage to the majestic whales that grace Dana Point’s shores each year during their migratory journey. Picture a vibrant tapestry of marine-themed activities, educational exhibits, and family-friendly entertainment that captures the essence of our deep-sea neighbors. 

Desert X

March 8-May 11

Curated by Artistic Director Neville Wakefield and co-curator Kaitlin Garcia-Maestas, Desert X 2025 brings together 11 international artists for an exhibition of art, architecture, sculpture and more set throughout the desert landscape of the Coachella Valley. 

Oakland Restaurant Week

March 20-30

Don’t miss this 10-day feast of global flavors in one of America’s top food destinations. Favorite foodie hot spots include Jack London Square and Temescal to Uptown and Fruitvale, to name a few, making Oakland Restaurant Week a perfect BARTable event.

California Artisan Cheese Festival

March 21-23

Get your ticket for three days of cheese bliss in Santa Rosa. This weekend of all things cheese is filled with cheese tastings and pairings, farm and producer tours, a cheese crawl, and the Artisan Cheese Tasting & Marketplace. 5% of the festival’s net proceeds will be donated to World Central Kitchen in support Southern California wildfire relief.

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