Spring is upon us! And you never know what kind of weather you will get in Michigan during the spring, especially during the month of March. It may come in like a lion and go out like a lamb – or vice versa. You may see a snow or ice storm but there are also plenty of sunny and warm days to enjoy. You might even notice sturdy, yellow daffodils popping up through the snow.
While (hopefully) the last of snow and ice is on the ground, there are plenty of things to do in Michigan with the promise of spring in the air. And March is a sweet time of year in our state. It has been named Michigan Maple Syrup Month and there are plenty of people all around the Mitten State who enjoy the annual celebration.
Think green! There is a little bit of Irish in all of us on St. Patrick’s Day and there are observances all around the state on March 17. It’s always fun to attend the Ancient Order of Hibernians St. Patrick’s Day celebration at St. Matthews Catholic Church in Downtown Flint. The annual St. Patrick’s party begins at 1:15pm featuring lots of food, drinks, music and prize raffles. The day ends with the annual Pot O’ Gold 4 Mile Run & Walk at 6pm.
There are also many entertaining events held locally during the month of March. I am looking forward to attending two performances at FIM Whiting Auditorium Flint’s Cultural Center. The international sensation, STOMP, a contemporary form of rhythmic expression, will perform on March 15. I can’t wait to take my grandson to see this explosive performance. I am also interested in seeing “The Simon & Garfunkel Story” on March 24, featuring their iconic hits such as “Mrs. Robinson”, “Bridge Over Troubled Water”, “Homeward Bound”, “Scarborough Fair”, “The Boxer”, “The Sound Of Silence” and many more.
It’s time to spring forward! And what many of us look forward to most is longer hours of daylight. Daylight Saving Time will begin Sunday, March 12 this year.
Another sign that spring has sprung in Michigan is the Novi Boat Show, taking place March 9-12 this year. With our abundance of great lakes to enjoy, boating and water enthusiasts from all over the state come to see watercraft of all types.
The most welcome thing about March in Michigan is that everything comes alive after the dark winter days. Red-winged Blackbirds are the first species to return to the state in March, singing their hearts out and announcing the change in seasons. Robins in your yard are also a signal that winter is waning.
What I like best about the spring season is the sense of renewal and rebirth that it brings. The trees begin to bud and the grass turns green. Flowers begin to sprout under the melting snow. On those rare warm spring days, I can fling open the windows and let the fresh air in. Winter is wiped away by the fresh spring breeze.
Spring! Michigan is always ready for your arrival.
