March is a fantastic time to visit Puerto Rico, with festivals happening across the island. From colorful carnivals and culinary celebrations to cultural events that highlight local traditions, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re a foodie, a music lover, or just looking to experience Puerto Rico’s vibrant spirit, these events promise an unforgettable experience. Here’s your ultimate guide to the top March festivals in Puerto Rico; mark your calendars!
March 1-3: Carnival Mabó – Guaynabo’s Biggest Celebration
Paseo Tablado, Guaynabo
One of the most anticipated festivals in Puerto Rico, Carnival Mabó brings together colorful parades, lively music, and traditional vejigante masks. This three-day event in Guaynabo features dance troupes, live performances, and vibrant floats that take over the streets. Expect an electrifying mix of salsa, bomba, plena, and reggaeton, along with food vendors serving classic Puerto Rican street food.
Must-See: The parade of Vejigantes (colorful masked figures) and the crowning of the carnival king and queen, the Burial of the Sardine
Perfect For: Families, music lovers, and travelers looking for a high-energy festival.
? More Info: Carnival Mabó
March 1: Festival de la Patita de Cerdo Guisá – A Foodie’s Delight
Coliseo Mario “Quijote” Morales, Guaynabo
Held during Carnival Mabó, this food festival is all about one thing: Patitas de Cerdo Guisadas—stewed pig’s feet, a traditional Puerto Rican dish. This event brings together local chefs, street food vendors, and culinary enthusiasts who showcase their unique take on this beloved comfort food.
Must-Try: Different versions of Patita de Cerdo, paired with plantains, rice, and local spices.
Perfect For: Food lovers, culinary adventurers, and those eager to try authentic Puerto Rican cuisine.
More Info: Festival De La Patita De Cerdo Guisá
March 1-4: Carnaval Ponceño – Puerto Rico’s Most Iconic Carnival Celebration
Ponce, Puerto Rico
Get ready for a non-stop celebration at Carnaval Ponceño, Puerto Rico’s most historic and lively carnival. Held in the vibrant city of Ponce, this centuries-old festival is famous for its elaborate parades, dazzling costumes, lively bomba and plena rhythms, and the legendary vejigantes—masked figures dressed in brightly colored, horned costumes that bring a thrilling energy to the streets.
The festivities include parades, live concerts, cultural performances, and the grand burial of the sardine (Entierro de la Sardina), a symbolic farewell to the carnival season. Expect plenty of traditional street food, artisans selling handmade crafts, and an electrifying party atmosphere that fills Plaza Las Delicias and the surrounding streets. If you want to experience Puerto Rico’s cultural heritage at its most vibrant, Carnaval Ponceño is the place to be.
Must-See: The Vejigantes Parade, featuring hundreds of masked performers dancing through the city.
Perfect For: Festival lovers, cultural explorers, and anyone ready to party like a local in Puerto Rico.
More Info: Carnaval Ponceño 2025
March 2-3: Festival Nacional del Café – A Celebration of Puerto Rico’s Coffee Culture
Yauco, Puerto Rico
For coffee lovers, there’s no better place to be than Yauco, Puerto Rico’s coffee capital, during the Festival Nacional del Café. This annual event celebrates Puerto Rico’s world-renowned coffee industry, bringing together local coffee farmers, roasters, and artisans to showcase the island’s finest brews.
Stroll through Plaza Fernando Pacheco and enjoy freshly brewed specialty coffees, artisanal chocolates, and coffee-inspired treats. Meet local caficultores (coffee growers) and learn about the history and process of Puerto Rican coffee production. The festival also features live music, folkloric dance performances, and a vibrant marketplace filled with local crafts and gourmet food products.
Must-Try: A steaming cup of Yauco Selecto, one of Puerto Rico’s most famous and exclusive coffee varieties.
Perfect For: Coffee enthusiasts, foodies, and anyone who wants to taste the rich flavors of Puerto Rico’s coffee culture.
More Info: FaceBook
March 6-9: Puerto Rico Open 2025 – World-Class Golf in Paradise
Grand Reserve Golf Club, Río Grande
Tee off in paradise at the Puerto Rico Open 2025, the island’s premier PGA Tour event. Held at the stunning Grand Reserve Golf Club in Río Grande, this tournament attracts top professional golfers from around the world to compete on one of the Caribbean’s most scenic courses. Set against a backdrop of lush greens, ocean breezes, and El Yunque Rainforest, this is a must-attend event for golf lovers. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or simply looking for an elevated sports experience, the Puerto Rico Open offers world-class golf, luxury hospitality, and breathtaking views.
Must-See: The championship round, where top contenders battle for the title.
Perfect For: Golf enthusiasts, sports fans, and travelers looking for an exclusive island experience.
More Info: FaceBook
March 8-9: Circo Fest 2025 – Puerto Rico’s Ultimate Street Performance Festival
Old San Juan
Step into a world of magic, acrobatics, and theatrical wonder at Circo Fest 2025, Puerto Rico’s largest street performance festival. For two days, the historic streets of Old San Juan transform into an open-air circus filled with fire dancers, aerialists, jugglers, clowns, and live musicians. Local and international artists take over plazas, alleyways, and waterfront promenades, creating an interactive, high-energy spectacle that blends traditional circus arts with modern street theater. Whether you’re watching a breathtaking tightrope act in Plaza Colón or laughing along with a comedy troupe in Paseo de la Princesa, CircoFest is a can’t-miss experience for all ages.
? Must-See: High-flying aerial performances set against the backdrop of Old San Juan’s colonial architecture.
? Perfect For: Families, art lovers, and travelers looking for a unique and immersive cultural experience.
More Info: Circo Fest 2025
March 14-16: Festival de la China – Celebrating Puerto Rico’s Sweetest Citrus
Plaza de Recreo, Las Marías
The Festival de la China (Orange Festival) in Las Marías is a vibrant agricultural celebration that honors the island’s famous sweet oranges. This festival is packed with citrus-themed events, live music, and local artisans selling handmade crafts. Visitors can also enjoy freshly squeezed juices, orange-infused desserts, and traditional Puerto Rican dishes.
Must-Try: China Dulce juice, a refreshing drink made from the island’s famous sweet oranges.
Perfect For: Families, foodies, and those looking for a more laid-back festival experience.
More Info: FaceBook
March 22-23: Festival de la Almojábana – A Tribute to Puerto Rico’s Favorite Fritter
Plaza de la Revolución, Lares
If you love traditional Puerto Rican street food, this festival is for you! The Festival de la Almojábana in Lares celebrates the almojábana, a delicious cheese-based fritter made from rice flour. Expect plenty of food stalls, cooking demonstrations, live music, and dance performances.
Must-Try: Freshly made almojábanas served with local coffee or hot chocolate.
Perfect For: Food lovers, cultural enthusiasts, and anyone with a sweet tooth!
More Info: FaceBook
March 29-30: Puerto Rico Coffee & Chocolate Expo – A Foodie’s Dream Weekend
Puerto Rico Convention Center, San Juan
For those who love rich coffee and indulgent chocolate, the Puerto Rico Coffee & Chocolate Expo is an absolute must. This two-day event at the Puerto Rico Convention Center brings together the best local and international coffee roasters, chocolatiers, and artisans, offering visitors the chance to sip, sample, and savor their way through the island’s most beloved flavors. Enjoy live barista demonstrations, chocolate-making workshops, expert panels, and tasting sessions that showcase the depth of Puerto Rico’s coffee culture and cacao traditions.
Must-Try: Handcrafted chocolate truffles and specialty Puerto Rican coffee blends.
Perfect For: Coffee lovers, chocolate connoisseurs, and anyone looking for a decadent foodie experience.
More Info: FaceBook
Plan Your March Trip to Puerto Rico
Visiting Puerto Rico in March means endless opportunities for fun, music, and amazing food. Whether you’re dancing at Carnival Mabó, tasting local flavors at Festival de la Patita de Cerdo Guisá, or enjoying fresh citrus at Festival de la China, there’s no shortage of excitement.
? Which festival are you adding to your Puerto Rico itinerary?
