St David is the patron saint of Wales, and this day is a celebration of all things Welsh. Expect plenty of red dragons adorning Welsh flags, as well as parades of daffodils, leeks and flags of St David himself. Traditionally, the capital, Cardiff, holds a National St David’s Day Parade.
5 – 8 March 2026: Crufts, Birmingham
If 24,000 dogs sound like your idea of heaven, you’re barking up the right tree with a trip to Crufts. Held since 1891, this dog show takes over Birmingham’s National Exhibition Centre for four days of competitions and performances. Watch the pups put their best paw forward in heelwork to music displays, and cheer on your favourite pooch in the iconic Best in Show competition.
Hitting big screens on 6 March 2026 (20 March 2026 on Netflix), grab your flat cap and explore key filming locations for Peaky Blinders and the new film, The Immortal Man, in the West Midlands, Bradford, Liverpool and more.
Inspired by China, Kew Garden’s Orchid Festival celebrates its 30th anniversary in March. Head to the Princess of Wales glasshouse for a masterclass in orchids and large-scale floral installations. The festival highlights the importance of plant conservation and collaborations with other countries around the world.
Until 8 March 2026: Glasgow Film Festival, Glasgow, western Scotland
The fastest-growing and third-largest film festival in Britain, with more than 350 events including new local and international film from all genres, from mainstream to art-house, classics to cult.
10 – 13 March 2026: Cheltenham Festival, Gloucestershire, south-west England
Held close to the lovely Regency town of Cheltenham, this National Hunt race meeting attracts prize money second only to the Grand National. Famous for the roar arising from the stands as the tape is raised for the start of the first race, the excitement continues to build until its climax with Friday’s signature Gold Cup – one of the greatest of all jump-racing events.
Regularly the largest event of its kind in Europe, this comedy extravaganza normally features a line-up of both big-league players and emerging talent from around Britain and beyond, performing in venues throughout the city.
Until 15 March 2026: Six Nations Rugby, Cardiff, London, Edinburgh
The Six Nations Championship for England, France, Ireland, Italy, Scotland and Wales will see matches take place at venues including the Principality Stadium in Cardiff, Twickenham Stadium in London and Murrayfield Stadium in Edinburgh.
17 March 2026: St Patrick’s Day, Northern Ireland and parts of Britain
The national saint of Ireland is celebrated in traditional fashion with festivals, parades, carnivals and concerts taking place across Northern Ireland and around Britain, usually including a parade in London.
Manchester is rolling out the red carpet for the international movie community, and film fans are the stars of the show. Take a seat for exclusive premieres, Q&As, panels, workshops and more at this welcoming festival, held at ODEON Manchester Great Northern. Past guests have included actors Simon Pegg and Shia LaBeouf, so you never know who you might bump into.