The weather in Washington DC in March is considered the first month of Spring.
Since it is the transition between the season, the earlier half is colder and can even see snow, while the second half of March is usually warmer.
- Temperatures
- How much Sun, Rain, and Snow
- What to Wear
- Things to Do
- Seasonal Outlook
- Free Tours by Foot
While you're in town, be sure to check out the top things to do in DC in March.
HOW COLD IS DC IN MARCH
March in the nation's capital brings the beginning of spring but it will still have a few colder days, especially during the early part of the month.
Daytime high temperatures early in March tend to be mostly in the low 50s F (about 11 C).
But by the end of the month are more likely to be in the low 60s F (16-17 C) with a few of the warmer days reaching up into the mid-70s F (23 C) or higher.
Overnight low temperatures early in March tend to be in the low to mid-30s f (0-2C) with a few mornings dropping down into the mid-20s F (-3 C) or lower.
By the end of March, however, the morning low temperatures are more likely to be in the low 40s F (5-6 C).
HOW MUCH SUN, RAIN, AND SNOW?
About 15 days this month will see sunny or at least partly sunny skies with some form of precipitation falling on about 13 days.
Significant precipitation amounts of 0.5 inches (13mm) or more, however, usually occur on only 2 or 3 days.
Does It Snow in March in DC?
Snow does occur this month but measurable snowfalls, on average, on only 1 day with snowfalls of 1 inch (2.5cm) or more occurring on one day every 5 years.
Seasonal Outlook - January to March 2023 Washington, DC
There is an 80% chance for normal to above-normal temperatures with near-normal precipitation.
WHAT TO WEAR IN MARCH?
Be sure to read our post, What to Wear and Pack in DC, for advice all year round on DC weather and how to prepare for it.
Winter-like weather can still occur in March, especially early in the month, so you will need to bring some winter gear.
If you're coming later, there will be plenty of sunny days so pack lighter clothes.
Below we have a list of things we recommend packing for visiting DC in March:
1. Winter Coat
March is still cold in DC, so a good winter coat is recommended.
We like sporty coats like this one from Columbia, which is great for long walks amongst the DC memorials. It's not bulky and convenient to pack.
2. Layers
For warmer days, you might just need a sweater, so packing layers is important. Think of long-sleeved shirts and a few light to medium sweaters.
3. Accessories: Hats, Scarf, Gloves
You will want to accessorize with a hat, scarf, and gloves on cold days.
These unisex gloves by TRENDOUX are great because they have touch-screen capabilities, which allow you to easily use your smartphone without having to constantly remove your gloves.
WHAT TO DO IN DC IN MARCH?
Below are some of the top things to do in DC in March.
Be sure to read our full post on what to do in DC in March which includes free things to do, night and family-friendly activities and attractions, as well as our definitive post on the best things to do in DC.
And if you are planning on visiting many of DC’s top attractions, then you should consider a tourist discount pass.
These services could save up to 50% of retail ticket prices to tours, attractions, and restaurants.
- Attend a major concert.
- See a basketball, baseball, or hockey game.
- Enjoy Wicked or another theatre show.
- Save money with a tourist discount pass.
- See the St. Patrick's Day Parade.
- Take a walking tour.
- Laugh with a famous stand-up comic.
- Enjoy the annual Cherry Blossom Festival.
- Go to a Harlem Globetrotter's game.
- Have fun at a Monster Jam.
Be sure to check out all the top things to do in March in our main post.
