MARCHing into Spring 2026

By Forest Riggs

March, illustrated name of calendar month on white background, vector illustration, eps 10 with transparency

The biggest party of the year, Mardi Gras, is over. Fat Tuesday came along and gave revelers a fun, last big bang. Ash Wednesday came the next day, it slowed things down, almost to a halt. Those on spiritual paths eased into the season of Lent, which spans forty days leading up to Easter. During those days, one is supposed to reflect, look inward, and practice self-denial and penitence. It’s a time to help others if you are into it. The forty days go by quickly unless you give up something like alcohol, and then it can be painful. (I did that before and was miserable and not fun to be around toward the end of the days.)
March is pretty much a lackluster month. Sort of the doldrums, if you will.

All is not lost, as there are some notable aspects to the month, such as St. Patrick’s Day, the Ides of March and, of course, basketball and March Madness. For some, that madness comes in other forms and activities. Maybe that is what ended Julius Caesar.

Galveston, still unwinding from Mardi Gras, does have a lot going on. Though the parades have stopped and the tossing of beads has ended, there are still things to do during March. A quick glance on Galveston.com or VisitGalvestonIsland.com websites show the many activities happening during March.
The Zoppé Italian Family Circus returns to the Island (March 6 through 30). This one-ring circus captivated packed audiences last year and promises to do the same this year, bringing old world charm in a friendly family atmosphere. This saw-dust floor circus offers breathtaking acrobatics, equestrian stunts, clowns and loads of laughter and awe. The troupe invites visitors to step back in time and experience an old-fashioned family circus. Fun for all ages.

The Zoppé Italian Family Circus returns to the Island

The 2026 Galveston Craft Show returns March 7 and 8 at the Galveston Convention Center on the Seawall. The show features a variety of handmade, vintage and artisan-crafted items from all over the state and Louisiana. Also, during those same dates and in the same center, the annual Corvette Chevrolet Expo showcases corvettes from vintage and classic to current and future models. This event draws many Corvette owners and enthusiasts, where the classy autos cruise up and down the Seawall.
On March 13, Gary Mullen and The Works bring their 20-year tradition to the 1994 Grand Opera House (2020 Postoffice). Their “One Night of Queen” has been performed all over the world. The music of Queen fills the opera house with legendary music. This show guarantees “they will rock you.” Don’t miss your chance to celebrate with “One Night of Queen.”

This year the Island hosts its first St. Patrick’s Parade. The Luck O’ the Irish Parade takes place downtown on March 14 (during Spring Break) at 5:30 p.m. This parade includes participating Mardi Gras Krewes with a flair of the Emerald Isle with floats, high-energy dancers and loads of music. Come dance in the streets.

That same evening, visitors and locals are encouraged to participate in the much-loved Galveston ArtWalk. Stroll through downtown streets and check out the shops, boutiques and art galleries offering some of Galveston’s finest. Many of the participating merchants offer complimentary wine and light finger foods. Come experience the Island through art.

Duke Ellington Orchestra

On the evening of St. Patrick’s Day, March 17, the Grand 1894 Opera House presents the world-famous Irish Tenors, performing traditional Irish music and highlight songs from their 10 best-selling CDs. A must-see for those who relish good ol’ Irish tunes and enjoy a bit of the Blarney and Celtic music.
On March 28, the Opera House presents the Duke Ellington Orchestra. Come enjoy the timeless jazz classics performed by this legendary orchestra. This music never goes out of style and conjures great memories.

On March 29, the annual Ironman 70.3 competition will take place. Numerous activities and events
highlight this grueling, annual event. If you like to watch athletes of all shapes and sizes, performing their best in this challenging race, then this event is for you.

So, it is easy to see that the doldrums of March are not so slow. Many other activities fill the month with great entertainment venues.

Make plans to turn a “boring” month into some fabulous adventures on Galveston Island.

Forest Riggs lives in Galveston. His book, ‘Galveston Memories and Related Stories’ is available at Amazon.com, OutSkirtsPress.com and ForestRiggs.com.

Related Posts

About author

Related Posts

Comments are closed.

Do not miss