Things to do in New York City in March While You’re Practicing Your English February 27, 2019

March in New York City can be a tricky time of the year. In the beginning of the month, it tends to still be pretty cold and blistery, and by this unofficial tail end of winter, it can be hard to be optimistic for the warmer months. By the end of March, typically, you’ll start to notice some whispers of early spring. You might have a really sunny day with the faint sound of birds chirping. You might start to notice the weather slowly creeping towards a comfortable 50 degree benchmark. Either way, March is a transition month, which might make it difficult to decide what to do in your free time. Should you bring your jacket? What shoes should you wear?

If you’re also new to the English language, it might make these decisions even more intimidating. I’ve come up with a few things to do this month so that not only can you take full advantage of this awesome city but so you can also put your English learnings to use in real life. Your weather app will be your loyal friend this month, so before you head out, check the forecast, dress accordingly, and remember: have fun!

1. Women’s History Month; all month

You may have noticed that recently there have been tremendous progress with feminism and women’s progress. This is a crazy exciting time to be involved in all the events around the city to honor all the achievements that women have made over the decades in all walks of life, from Congress and medicine to the entertainment industry and law. Throughout the whole month, there are all sorts of events set up, so depending on where you are and what interests you and your friends, you’re bound to find something that will move and inspire you. By checking out these talks and tours, you’ll expand on your English listening and engagement skills, so there’s no better time to put your learnings to practice.

2. Big Apple Comic Con; Saturday, March 9 – Sunday, March 10

While this event is smaller than the New York Comic Con, you can easily have a great experience rubbing elbows with some of the most well-known comic book creators of all time. Held at the Pennsylvania Hotel across from Madison Square Garden, you’ll have two full days to check out all the events and exhibits that this event has to offer. With some guests dressed up in costume or cosplay, it can be easy to get caught up in the feeling and reminisce about your favorite comic book superheroes. Check out the itinerary, grab your friends, and start practicing your favorite admiration English phrases, like, “I grew up with your work,” or “It’s such an honor meeting you.”

3. United Airlines Half Marathon; Sunday, March 17

If by chance you were able to check out the NYC Marathon in November, you’ll remember just how invigorating it was to cheer on so many participants as they stretched their physical limits all over the boroughs of New York City. If you’re chasing that same feeling, check out this half marathon will give you that fix. While this tour is obviously half in length as the race in November, the spirit remains. Starting in Brooklyn and ending in Central Park, you have amazing choices when it comes to where you want to take in your sights. Make signs cheering the runners on (great English writing practice) or pick out your favorite English optimism chants.

March is a fickle time of year, pretty much no matter where you go. It can be difficult planning your weekends when you’re not sure what the weather will be like, but keep in mind that you’re living in one of the best cities in the world, with so much to offer when it comes to activities. I always tell my visiting friends that if the weather is too extreme, don’t forget about all the museums New York City has so you can not only escape the harsh weather effects, but you can also be in the presence of incredible art and history. Always keep these options in the back of your mind when you’re making your plans. And as I always say, New York City is a huge melting pot, so if you’re trying to find ways to put your English learning skills to use in real time, don’t forget that you’re surrounded by thousands of other cultural transplants that are happy to help you!