March marks a seasonal and cultural transition in many parts of the United States. March is widely recognized for observances such as Women's History Month, highlighting the contributions of women across sectors, and St. Patrick's Day on March 17, a cultural celebration with Irish roots. In some years, Christian communities observe Lent during March, a period of reflection leading up to Easter. Collectively, March represents renewal, increased activity, and forward momentum as communities transition from winter into spring.
Cultural and Religious Celebrations
- St. Patrick's Day (March 17th): This holiday commemorates Ireland's patron saint and is known for parades, wearing green, and enjoying Irish culture.
- Purim (Judaism): This holiday commemorates the Jewish people's deliverance from destruction in the Persian Empire. Celebrations include the reading of the Book of Esther, charity, gift-giving, and festive meals. The date varies, occurring on March 2nd and 3rd in 2026.
- Ramadan (Islam): This holy month is for fasting, prayer, and reflection for Muslims worldwide. The start and end dates shift annually, occurring between late February and late March in recent years. Ramadan began on March 1, 2025, and ends around March 31, 2025.
- Feast of the Annunciation (Christianity): Celebrates the announcement by the Angel Gabriel to Mary that she would give birth to Jesus. It is celebrated on March 25th, but the date may vary depending on other holidays, such as Holy Week and Easter Week, or Sundays.
- Easter (Christianity): This major Christian holiday celebrates the resurrection of Jesus Christ. The date varies each year, occurring in late March or April. In 2024, it was on March 31st.
- Cherry Blossom Festival Japan: A much-anticipated spectacle, painting the landscape with delicate pink and white blossoms. It runs from March 24th to April 28th in 2025.
Raising Awareness
- Women's History Month: Throughout March, the nation celebrates the contributions of women to American history and society.
- International Women's Day: A global celebration honoring the achievements of women.
- Employee Appreciation Day: Recognizes and celebrates the hard work and dedication of employees, often observed with team-building activities, gifts, or awards ceremonies.
Significant Women's Events In March
- March 3, 1913: The first major march for women's suffrage in Washington, D.C., organized by the National American Woman Suffrage Association (NAWSA), aimed to secure the right to vote for women across the country, not just in individual states.
- March 1917: The National Woman's Party was formed, dedicated to getting women the right to vote.
- March 4, 1917: Jeannette Rankin took her seat as the first female member of Congress.
- March 4, 1933: Frances Perkins became the first female member of the United States Cabinet, serving as the United States Secretary of Labor.
- March 12, 1912: Juliette Gordon Low founded the Girl Scouts in Savannah, Georgia.
- March 12, 1993: Janet Reno was sworn in as the first woman U.S. Attorney General.
- March 20, 1925: Ramona Acosta Bañuelos, the first Hispanic to hold the role, became the 34th Treasurer of the United States.
To Your Success,
Dr. Di Ann Sanchez, SPHR, SHRM - SCP
