March Diversity Newsletter

March 2026 Cultural & Awareness Celebrations

March is full of opportunities for students and families to learn about cultures, traditions,

and important awareness topics from around the world. Below are several March

observances with ideas and local events where families can participate and learn

together.

March 3 – Purim ✡️

Purim is a Jewish holiday celebrating the story of Queen Esther and the salvation of the Jewish people. Families celebrate with costumes, storytelling, and sharing food and treats with friends.

Local Event on March 3:

Purim in the Shtetl! - JewishUtah.com

March 3 – Holi 

Holi, often called the Festival of Colors, is a Hindu celebration welcoming the arrival of spring. Families celebrate with bright colored powders, music, and community gatherings.

Local Event on March 28-29:

Festival Of Colors in Spanish Fork, UT -

Learn More:

Books That Teach Students About the Hindu Festival Holi

March 3 – World Wildlife Day 

World Wildlife Day celebrates the plants and animals that make up our natural world and reminds us how important it is to protect them. Students can learn about wildlife by exploring local nature, reading books about animals, and practicing ways to care for the environment such as recycling and conserving resources. This day encourages families to appreciate nature and understand how we can help protect wildlife for future generations.

Learn More:

About World Wildlife Day 2026 | Official website of UN World Wildlife Day

Watch the livestream celebration on March 3:

World Wildlife Day YouTube

March 4 – Abilities Day 

Abilities Day, hosted by Special Olympics Utah, celebrates the talents and abilities of individuals of all abilities. This event promotes inclusion, friendship, and community connection.

Local Event on March 4:

Calendar • Abilities Day with Special Olympics Utah

March 8 – International Women’s Day 

International Women’s Day celebrates the achievements and contributions of women throughout history and today. It is a wonderful opportunity to talk with children about strong role models and equality.

School Resources:

IWD: International Women's Day school resources

Local Events:

March 7 Change the World With Her hosted by Curly Me!:

March 7- 5 the Annual International Women’s Day Celebration:

5th Annual International Women's Day Celebration at Salt Lake County Government,

March 21- Join Utah Refugee Connection for an International Women’s Day celebration highlighting women and leadership at Millcreek Commons

Calendar • International Women’s Day Celebration

March 17 – St. Patrick’s Day ☘️

St. Patrick’s Day celebrates Irish culture and traditions. Many families enjoy parades, crafts, music, and festive green foods.

Local Event on March 14:

49th Annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade: Parade | Hibernian Society UT

Kids activities you can do at home:

42 Lucky St. Patrick's Day Activities for Kids

March 20 – Eid al-Fitr 

Eid al-Fitr marks the end of Ramadan, a month of fasting and reflection for Muslims. Families celebrate with special meals, prayers, and time together.

Teaching Resources:

Eid ul-Fitr (or Eid al-Fitr)- Teaching Resources - BBC Teach

Books:

Picture Books to Celebrate Ramadan - by Maya - MaiStoryBook

Read Aloud Story:

https://youtu.be/XWm0UCBajME

March 21 – International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination 

This day encourages communities to promote kindness, fairness, and respect for all people. Students can learn about inclusion and treating others with dignity.

Learn More:

International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination | United Nations

Watch a Short Video:

https://youtu.be/kEyjlqixq9c?si=ZVyOFDegRyxRo6dl

March 21 – World Down Syndrome Day 

World Down Syndrome Day celebrates people with Down syndrome and promotes inclusion. Many people participate by wearing colorful or mismatched socks to show support.

2026 Theme: Together Against Loneliness

Learn More:

World Down Syndrome Day 2026 - Down Syndrome International

Home - World Down Syndrome Day

Participate:

March 22 – World Water Day 

World Water Day highlights the importance of clean water and water conservation. Families can celebrate by learning ways to save water at home. A major focus of World Water Day is equality, particularly the role of women and girls in water access. In many parts of the world, women and girls are primarily responsible for collecting water for their families. This often requires long walks and hours of daily labor, which can limit their opportunities for education, employment, and economic independence. Lack of safe and accessible water also affects health and sanitation, disproportionately impacting women and girls. World Water Day emphasizes that equitable access to clean water is essential for gender equality. When communities have reliable water sources close to home, women and girls have more time for school, work, and leadership roles. Improving water access helps create healthier families, stronger communities, and more equal opportunities for everyone. 

Learn More:

World Water Day | United Nations

Fact Sheet:

WWD2026_Factsheet_English.pdf

Kids Activities:

WaterSense for Kids | US EPA

March 31 – International Transgender Day of Visibility 

International Transgender Day of Visibility celebrates transgender individuals and promotes understanding and respect for all people.

Learning Together

Exploring holidays, and awareness days, helps students develop curiosity, empathy,

and understanding of the world around them.