March is packed with opportunities to get outside, explore, learn something new, and connect as a family. From hands-on science and community celebrations to nature walks and kids-only fun nights, here are some of our favorite picks for the month.
Kick Off the Month With Community Fun — March 7
Start March with a choose-your-own-adventure Saturday: shopping, playing, or both.
Monterey Small Business Market
10:00 AM–5:00 PM | Del Monte Center, Monterey
Browse more than 20 local vendors featuring art, handmade goods, jewelry, and unique gifts. This is a great outing for families who want to support local makers while letting kids help pick out a special treasure.
Pop Up Fun in Monterey
11:00 AM–1:00 PM | Montecito Park, Monterey
Looking for something simple and active? Head to the park for games, activities, and neighborhood fun. No registration needed — just show up and play.
Why we love this day: Parents can split the time between a relaxed shopping stroll and free outdoor playtime, making it an easy low-stress family outing.
A Moment to Remember — March 10
COVID Memorial Garden Art Unveiling
10:30 AM | Board of Supervisors Chambers, Salinas
Families are invited to honor loved ones affected by COVID-19 in a meaningful community gathering. Attendees may speak names at the podium and reflect together.
Good for: older kids and teens learning about community, remembrance, and compassion.
Science or Nature? You Can’t Go Wrong — March 14
This is one of the best Saturdays of the month with two standout options depending on your child’s interests.
STEAM Family Science Day
10:00 AM–2:00 PM | Hartnell College, Salinas
Celebrate 20 years of hands-on learning with a tech challenge, computer science showcase, science demonstrations, music, dancing, and food vendors. Free and open to the public.
Best for: curious kids, builders, and future engineers.
Winter Wildflowers & Plants Guided Hike
10:30 AM | Garland Ranch, Carmel Valley
A guided hike through canyons and ridges focusing on seasonal plants and animals. Expect fresh air, movement, and a chance to slow down and observe nature together.
Best for: outdoorsy families and kids who learn best by exploring.
Parent tip: If your kids have different interests, divide and conquer — one parent to science, one to nature.
Our Big Family Event — March 21
Monterey Bay Parent Summer Fun & Camp Expo
10:00 AM–2:00 PM | Del Monte Center, Monterey
This free one-day event helps families plan their summer all in one place. Meet camps and local programs from across Monterey County while kids enjoy activities, giveaways, and face painting.
Why families shouldn’t miss it:
- Compare camps side-by-side
- Discover new programs you didn’t know existed
- Kids stay entertained while parents gather info
It’s basically summer planning made easy — and fun.
Parents’ Night Out (Kids’ Night In) — March 28
Kids’ Night Out at Rising Star Gymnastics
5:30–9:30 PM | Rising Star Gymnastics, Monterey
Drop off kids ages 4–12 for obstacle courses, games, pizza, and a movie while parents enjoy a night off.
Perfect for: date night, errands, or just a quiet evening at home.
How to Plan Your Month
- Younger kids: Pop Up Fun, Science Day, Camp Expo
- Active kids: Garland Ranch hike, Kids’ Night Out
- Creative kids: Small Business Market, STEAM Day
- Meaningful experiences: Memorial Garden event
March offers a great balance — active days, educational outings, community moments, and even a built-in parents’ night off. Mark a few now and you’ll have a month full of easy family memories.
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