March ushers in the Madness — and not just the basketball kind. Yes, there are basketball tournaments that tend to claim our attention on some days, but even if you’re not a hoops fan, you don’t need to look far to find things to do. Here are our top picks for family friendly fun in March:
Champaign Park District Youth Theatre Presents Amélie, March 2-4
Seventh- through 12-graders will perform at the Virginia Theatre, and the subject is based on the Academy Award nominated movie of the same title. (The production has been altered to eliminate any inappropriate dialogue, but the story and music remain the same.) Performances available Thursday through Saturday.
The first 1,000 kids — 1,000! — will receive a book bag and free book. If you’ve never experienced this event, we promise it is worth your time. At Lincoln Square Mall in Urbana from 10 a.m.-1 p.m.
Monarch and Pollinator Fair, March 4
If butterflies are your thing, you won’t want to miss this. Head to the McKinley Foundation (1-4 p.m.) to learn about Monarch butterflies and how to help them thrive in Illinois. Plant milkweed seeds to raise at home, do kid-friendly crafts and games, see butterfly art and movies and much more.
Land of Lincoln Short Track Regional Speedskating, March 4-5
This is a short track speedskating competition at the UI Ice Arena, and if you’ve never seen it — perhaps you caught some on TV during a previous Olympics — you’re missing out. It can be terribly fun to watch. Fast, exciting, crashes (people rarely get hurt) — it makes for a cool viewing experience.
Sunday morning bird walks, March 5
It’s the Urbana Park District’s first bird walk of the season. Happening every Sunday through May 28, walk with Champaign County Audubon Society leaders and search for birds in Busey Woods and Crystal Lake Park. Get more details here.
IHSA Boys Basketball State Tournament, March 9-11
The state tournament returns to the State Farm Center for the second year in a row following its two-and-a-half decade run in Peoria. In addition to great on-court action, don’t forget about the KidsZone, featuring plenty of fun inside the SFC for kids of all ages.
Spring Break Activities, March 9-19
If you’re looking for something to do during spring break — which, for Champaign schools runs March 10-20, but can vary for other districts — we just happen to have a list of more than 50 ideas. You can find it here.
Illini women’s gymnastics vs. No. 12 Kentucky and Illinois State, March 11
The Illini women hit the gym for some exciting 2 p.m. action at Huff Hall. Admission is free. This is the “We wILL Rise Meet” which promotes mental wellness, including a mental wellness clinic in the classrooms at Huff.
Illini baseball vs. Indiana State, March 14
Baseball! Yes, the Illini open their home season on Tuesday, March 14 — weather permitting, of course. Game time is 3 p.m. and admission is free.
Illini softball vs. Valparaiso, March 15
The Illini take on Valparaiso in their home opener starting at 1 p.m. Admission is free but the fun you’ll have is priceless! Again, as always, double-check fightingillini.com to make sure weather hasn’t impacted the game’s status.
A Shamrockin’ Glow at Allerton, March 17
Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with a unique treat at Monticello’s Allerton Park. Allerton is painting GLOW green. Shimmy your way through the park after dark while listening to Irish tunes. Food trucks will be available.