Storms still roll through San Francisco in March, but the hills turn green and the first wildflowers appear. The clocks spring forward mid month, so evenings in the parks get longer. St. Patrick’s Day brings the city’s biggest Irish celebration, and hotels are usually cheaper than they will be in late spring.
In this guide
This page is part of our San Francisco events calendar.
March 2027 at a glance
- Mar 2 Free First Tuesday at the de Young and Legion of Honor
- Mar 7 Free First Sunday at the Asian Art Museum
- Mar 14 Daylight saving time begins
- Mar 17 St. Patrick’s Day, a Wednesday
- Mid March St. Patrick’s Day Parade, usually on a Saturday
- Weather Average high 62°F, low 49°F, about 3.2 inches of rain
St. Patrick’s Day
San Francisco’s St. Patrick’s Day Parade has been held for more than 175 years. It is usually on a Saturday in mid March and starts at 11:30am at 2nd and Market streets, marching to Civic Center Plaza, with a free festival near City Hall afterward. In 2026 it was on Saturday, March 14. The 2027 date had not been confirmed by the organizer when we published this, so check the United Irish Societies of San Francisco before you plan. On the day itself, a Wednesday this year, the Irish pubs in the Richmond, the Sunset and downtown are busy from the afternoon.
Wildflowers and green hills
Late winter rain turns the city’s hills green in March. Good places to see early wildflowers include Bernal Heights Park, Twin Peaks, the Presidio and the coastal trails at Lands End. Golden Gate Park’s gardens start to bloom too. See outdoor activities in San Francisco and the best views.
Longer evenings
Daylight saving time starts on Sunday, March 14, 2027. Sunset moves past 7pm, which makes after-work walks along Crissy Field or the Embarcadero easier. See things to do at night.
Rainy day backups
March still has rainy spells. The rainy day guide and free museum days list good indoor plans.
Coming up in April
The Northern California Cherry Blossom Festival in Japantown runs April 10 and 11 and 17 and 18, 2027. See San Francisco events in April.
Official resources: United Irish Societies of San Francisco, San Francisco Recreation and Parks, Presidio Trust.
Frequently asked questions
When is the St. Patrick’s Day Parade in San Francisco in 2027?
It is usually held on a Saturday in mid March, starting at 11:30am at 2nd and Market. The 2027 date had not been confirmed when we published this.
Is March a good time to visit San Francisco?
It is a good value month with green hills and fewer crowds. Pack a rain jacket.
When does daylight saving start in 2027?
Sunday, March 14, 2027.
Photo credits
Featured image: 4300streetcar / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY 4.0.