I’m excited to be heading into March with the promise of spring just around the corner. It’s staying light a little longer and there’s a lot going on in March in the Petoskey Area to get excited about. It’s time to party and play and get out and enjoy the wrap up of winter.

Here are a few ideas on what to do:

Harbor Springs Restaurant Week, March 1-10 – I love how this event goes above and beyond offering not one, but two weekends of special deals on taste tempting meals. It’s a great time to get the comfort food fix before starting my annual “bathing suit season is coming” attempt to lose weight. Every year, I find something new I like and might not have tried without the eatery taking part in Harbor Springs Restaurant Week.

Here and There, through March 30 – This photographic exhibition wraps up at the end of March. Though I’ve heard rave reviews, I have yet to make it to check it out myself. Crooked Tree Arts Center never disappoints in bringing in passionate works of art, so I’ll be sure to stop in by the end of the month to see what’s in store from photographers Jin Lee, Larson Shindelman and Regan Golden.

Fustini’s Interactive Cooking Class: Legends-Julia Child, March 14 – These culinary classes are so much fun at Fustini’s!  Meet some new people, try a new recipe and get dinner all in one fell swoop. I’m no Julia Child, but then I don’t need to be to enjoy this class with Chef Jon. Make a reservation and come join the fun!

Carnival Weekend, March 15-17 – The ultimate spring event, this isn’t for the kiddos. There may be a beer or two consumed at the on-hill party at Boyne Mountain. Live music adds a great festive flair.

Krazy Daze, March 16 – The name says it all. Time to put on the fun hats and just have a good time – family style. Bring the kids. Listen to some tunes, play some games and be outside at Boyne Highlands.

Divine Divas of Rock-N-Soul, March 22 – I work hard for the money, but won’t mind spending it to see this show featuring tribute performances of Donna Summer, Diana Ross & the Supremes, and Tina Turner. I’m betting it will be hard to stay in the seats for this one. Order tickets online for just $20.

Mardi Gras, March 23 – Nub’s Nob brings in live music, challenges skiers to jump icy ponds and in general makes it a day to remember. This is another day for families to party together.

Skiing, snowmobiling and snowshoeing will continue through March, and for downhill skiing, at least, into April! Make the most of March because winter really won’t last forever and soon some of us will be complaining that it’s too warm.

About the author

Diane Dakins is passionate about all the lakeside communities that comprise the Petoskey Area of northern Michigan: Petoskey, Harbor Springs, Bay Harbor, Alanson and Boyne City. As assistant director of the Petoskey Area Visitors Bureau, she has ‘been there — seen that’ when it comes to virtually every area attraction. Her blogs give potential visitors the scoop on planning a northern Michigan vacation.