March is one of those in-between months. For many of us, it's a transition month from winter to spring. That makes it one of my favorites. The daylight hours are getting longer, the magnolias are starting to bloom, and there are those wonderful days you can smell spring in the air.
But the change of seasons isn't all that's happening in March.
McDonough Area News Bits
- Starshines Cafe announced it is merging with and moving into the restaurant known as The Kitchen, located behind Scoops at the Neighborhood Lot. No word yet on how and if menus will be merged. They expect to be open April 1.
- The corner building on the square in McDonough that was historically a bank, most recently a pawn shop, is on its way to becoming Cigar Bank, a cigar lounge and retail establishment. New signage has gone up!
- State Senators have introduced a proposal for new County Commission districts with changes to McDonough - Stockbridge
- New Walking Club in McDonough - Henry County Parks and Rec and Henry County Extension have started an initiative for residents to get out in nature, meet friends, and exercise. Walk-A -Weigh is an 8-week walking club beginning on Monday, March 14. Come out at 5:30 pm at Heritage Park, 99 Lake Dow RD, McDonough, GA and explore the beautiful walking trails with the group.
Here are 10 holidays, events, and observances your family can celebrate or learn more about in March.
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Mardi Gras - March 1
Also known as Fat Tuesday, Mardi Gras is the celebration before the beginning of Lent, traditionally a time to eat rich and fatty foods before fasting. Now, of course, Mardi Gras goes hand-in-hand with New Orleans-style fun, but why not take part in a more laid-back family-friendly celebration — complete with beads, masks, a king cake, and a parade through your own neighborhood!
You can also take a short drive over to Conyers to experience a little New Orleans, the town is all decked out in Mardi Gras decor and is set as New Orleans for the filming of Legacies - A spin off of The Vampire Diaries and The Originals.
Closer to home, you can experience the kid-friendly party atmosphere at Mardi Gras Glow Night at Sky Zone on February 27.
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Read Across America Day - March 2
Many schools celebrate Read Across America Day each year. You can celebrate at home too by visiting your local library or reading together as a family. Need some book suggestions? Check out these books suggested by the National Education Association, which celebrate an array of experiences and cultures.
You can also go to the Dr. Suess Reading Party on March 2 for family fun, arts & crafts, book reading, refreshments, games, from 5 pm - 7 pm at Jim Huie Recreation Center in Jonesboro.
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International Women's Day - March 8
International Women's Day is a global day to celebrate the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women while also marking a call to action for gender parity. Mark the day by celebrating women's achievements, raising awareness about women's equality, or fundraising for women-focused charities. March is also Women's History Month.
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Daylight Saving Time - March 13
It's time to spring forward! That means you set your clocks ahead an hour, which means the sun sets at a later hour, which means ... summer is on its way!
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Pi Day - March 14
Celebrate ... with pie, of course! Try this amazing apple pie recipe that is sure to add up to a totally happy family (see what I did there?)
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St. Patrick's Day - March 17
It's time to make an elaborate leprechaun trap! Maybe this will be the year your kids catch hold of that little troublemaker. Looking for St. Patrick's Day crafts with kids? Check out these three fun and easy crafts!
Get into the spirit at the St. Patrick's Day Parade in Conyers on March 17 at 5 p.m. There will be contests, games, and specials.
First Day of Spring - March 20
Oh, happy day. Watch the National Geographic video above to learn about equinoxes.
 Jennifer Sheran |
World Down Syndrome Day - March 21
World Down Syndrome Day is observed the 21st day of the 3rd month each year to signify the uniqueness of the triplication (trisomy) of the 21st chromosome causing Down syndrome. On this day, people with Down syndrome, along with their families and friends, participate in activities and events to raise public awareness and advocate for people with Down syndrome. You can start at home by helping your child learn to embrace differences in all.
This day has special significance to me, my son Joey (11, pictured above) has Down syndrome. I shared a bit of our story in this article: Raising Joey: One Mom's Story of Having a Child with Down Syndrome.
Watch this amazing video that explains more about having Down syndrome from some awesome kids and their friends.
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National Single Parent's Day - March 21
Support a single parent today! How? Let them know you see how many self-sacrifices they make for their kids. Bring them a meal. Offer childcare. Listen, so they know they're not alone.
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International Transgender Day of Visibility - March 21
Trans Day of Visibility is dedicated to celebrating the accomplishments of transgender and gender nonconforming people while raising awareness of the work that still needs to be done to achieve trans justice. Want to know how you can help? Visit GLSEN for resources.
