March brings together some of the UK’s most recognisable cultural, seasonal and food-focused celebrations. From patron saints and family occasions to globally recognised food and drink days, the month is filled with moments that are woven into the social calendar across England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. Here are the key dates that give March its distinctive character.
BIG NATIONAL DAYS – The Celebrations Everyone Knows
1 March — Saint David’s Day (Wales)
March begins by honouring Saint David, the patron saint of Wales. The day is marked by a strong display of Welsh pride, with daffodils and leeks worn as national symbols and celebrations of Welsh heritage taking place across the country. Traditional Welsh foods such as cawl, Welsh rarebit and bara brith are widely enjoyed as part of the occasion.
15 March — Mother’s Day (UK)
One of the most widely observed family occasions of the year, Mother’s Day sees families across the UK come together to celebrate mums, grandmothers and maternal figures. Shared meals, flowers and thoughtful gestures define the day, which carries a warm and celebratory atmosphere nationwide.
17 March — Saint Patrick’s Day (Northern Ireland & UK-wide celebrations)
Saint Patrick’s Day stands out as one of the most vibrant and widely recognised cultural celebrations of the year. Officially observed as a bank holiday in Northern Ireland and embraced across the UK, the day celebrates Irish heritage, culture, food and drink, with festivities and gatherings creating a lively and unmistakable atmosphere.
MID-MONTH HIGHLIGHTS – Cultural Dates with Nationwide Reach
Second Monday in March — Commonwealth Day
Commonwealth Day recognises the cultural and historic links between the nations of the Commonwealth. It is marked across the UK through ceremonies, community events and reflections on shared identity, diversity and global connections.
First Thursday in March — World Book Day
A celebration of reading and storytelling, World Book Day is widely recognised across schools, communities and families. The day highlights the importance of books and literacy, bringing people together through a shared appreciation of stories and creativity.
20 March — Spring Equinox
The spring equinox marks the official transition into spring, when day and night reach equal length. It signals the seasonal shift toward longer, brighter days and is one of the key turning points in the calendar year.
30 March — British Summer Time Begins
The clocks moving forward to British Summer Time mark one of the most noticeable seasonal changes of the year, bringing lighter evenings and signalling the transition into the spring and summer months.
FOOD & DRINK SPOTLIGHT DAYS – Celebrating Favourite Flavours
First Full Week of March — British Pie Week
British Pie Week celebrates one of the nation’s most iconic and enduring dishes. From traditional steak and ale pies to modern interpretations, the week recognises the pie’s place at the heart of British food culture.
9 March — National Meatball Day
A global celebration of one of the most versatile and widely enjoyed comfort foods, National Meatball Day recognises the many variations of this classic dish found across different cuisines.
24 March — National Cocktail Day
National Cocktail Day highlights the creativity and enduring popularity of cocktails, from timeless classics to contemporary favourites. It celebrates the role cocktails play in social occasions and modern drinking culture.
27 March — International Whisky Day
International Whisky Day honours one of the world’s most historic and culturally significant spirits. With Scotland recognised globally for its whisky heritage, the day carries particular significance within the UK.
CULTURAL & REGIONAL SPOTLIGHT DAYS – Traditions Closer to Home
5 March — St Piran’s Day (Cornwall)
St Piran’s Day celebrates the patron saint of Cornwall and the county’s unique cultural identity. The Cornish flag is proudly displayed and communities mark the occasion by recognising local heritage and tradition.
8 March — International Women’s Day
Observed worldwide, International Women’s Day celebrates the achievements and contributions of women across all aspects of society. It has become an important cultural date in the UK calendar.
WHY MARCH STANDS OUT
From major national celebrations like Saint Patrick’s Day and Mother’s Day to food-focused occasions such as British Pie Week and National Cocktail Day, March brings together a diverse mix of cultural, seasonal and culinary moments. These dates reflect the traditions, heritage and shared experiences that define the UK’s social calendar, making March one of the most culturally rich and recognisable months of the year.