What to Do in Groningen in March?
Welcome spring with some fun events! From performances to car meets, we hope that a few activities will catch your eye this month.
7 March - Emo Night Mainland in Groningen
Get ready to relive your emo phase at Emo Night Mainland – The SLAY Tour at De Oosterpoort. From My Chemical Romance to Bring Me The Horizon, DJs will spin all your favourite 00’s emo, pop-punk, and metalcore anthems alongside fresh hits from Neck Deep and Beartooth. Dig out your skinny jeans and black band tees—this is a night you won’t want to miss!
7 March - Drink & Draw #17 in Groningen
Join Drink & Draw #17 at WEP, Groningen, for a relaxed and creative Friday afternoon. This edition features illustrator and visual storyteller Anne Stalinski, whose narrative drawings blend humor with everyday life. Known for her work in Aline and Tijdgeest, she brings her unique perspective to this open drawing session. Whether you're a professional or just starting out, bring your favoruite tools or use the materials provided. Music by Daniël Janse (Natte Sokken, Piano Daniël) will set the atmosphere. Free admission, 16:00–20:00!
8 March - Lean In Groningen x Women Devs: International Women’s Day
Lean In Groningen and Women Devs host the third edition of their International Women’s Day event at MeetLAB, celebrating gender equality and empowerment. This year’s theme, 'Accelerate Action,' focuses on breaking barriers and addressing biases to drive meaningful change. Speakers include Beatriz Noheda, reflecting on 30 years in science, Astrid Cantineau, advocating for menopause awareness in large organizations, and Jörgen Raymann, offering a fresh perspective on diversity. The event is free, but spots are limited to 100—reserve yours now!
8 March – RunX Halve Marathon van Haren
The RunX Halve Marathon van Haren returns for its 40th edition, offering runners a scenic course through the Hondsrug landscape, the Noordlaarderbos, and the Vijftig Bunder. This year introduces a 5 km run and a 1-mile Frame Run, alongside the 21.1 km half marathon and 10 km OnnerRonde. All distances sold out within hours, highlighting the event's popularity. Prizes await top finishers, with a €250 bonus for breaking the course record. Participants can enjoy refreshment stations along the route and celebrate at the finish line on the Grote Markt.
8 March - FietsFriend Biking Workshop in Groningen
Discover the cycling culture of Groningen with FietsFriend, a free biking workshop designed to help you navigate the Dutch roads with confidence. Whether you’re new to cycling, want to learn local traffic rules, or simply explore the city on two wheels, this event offers practical lessons and a short outing to put your skills to the test. The workshop starts at 10:00, and participants are encouraged to bring their own bike. Spots are limited—sign up now!
8 March - American Car Cruise
Kick off the season with a classic car cruise through Groningen! Meet fellow enthusiasts, admire Hot Rods, Muscle Cars, and more, then cruise past the Martini Tower. Gather at the Porsche & Audi dealership on Bornholmstraat before hitting the road. Open to American cars and classic oldtimers—drive responsibly and enjoy the ride!
11 March - Flanor Literary Evening
Join Flanor, Groningen’s independent literary student association, for an evening dedicated to literature in all its forms. Whether you love fantasy, classic Dutch literature, or graphic novels, Flanor welcomes all book enthusiasts. This event features a guest speaker and a chance to connect with fellow readers. The evening takes place at 3 West from 20:00 to 21:30, and tickets are available for €12.50.
13 March - Symphonic Soundtracks by Noord Nederlands Orkest
Experience the magic of film music with the Noord Nederlands Orkest at De Oosterpoort. Under the direction of Dirk Brossé, the orchestra brings iconic soundtracks to life, from Titanic and Schindler’s List to The Godfather and Raiders of the Lost Ark. Relive the emotions of cinema’s most unforgettable moments in this mesmerising symphonic performance.
Wildlife Photographer of the Year – March 2026
The world-renowned Wildlife Photographer of the Year exhibition is back at Forum Groningen, showcasing the most breathtaking and thought-provoking nature photography. Featuring the winning images from the latest edition, this exhibition offers a unique insight into the beauty and fragility of the natural world. Don’t miss the chance to explore these stunning visuals and the powerful stories behind them, on display until May 3, 2026.
22 March - Parow Fest at De Oosterpoort
Parow Fest returns for its fourth edition, bringing a night of high-energy chaos led by South Africa’s grooviest rapper, Jack Parow. With a lineup featuring Bob Uit Zuid, Elmer, Chibi Ichigo, and Early B, expect a storm of beats, humor, and electrifying performances. Bob Uit Zuid delivers old-school hip-hop with gritty storytelling, Elmer brings raw, provocative rap, Chibi Ichigo blends electronic energy with Belgian lyrics, and Early B adds a touch of South African flair with witty and socially charged rhymes. Get ready for an unforgettable night!
23 March – AutoMadness Assen at TT Circuit
Kick off the 2025 car season at AutoMadness Assen, the biggest car meet in the Netherlands! With 3,000+ showcars, dragraces, supercars, tuning displays, and more, it’s a must-attend event for car enthusiasts. Want to show off your ride? Secure your showpaddock ticket for €10 (excl. entry). Tickets are €30 online (€35 at the door), so grab yours now before prices go up!
28-30 March – Lentefestival Oosterparkwijk
The Lentefestival in Oosterparkwijk returns for three days of music, street performances, food, and fun at Klaprooslaan. This free event invites residents and visitors to come together and enjoy a lively atmosphere filled with entertainment for all ages. Organised by Bewonersorganisatie Oosterparkwijk, the festival thrives thanks to dedicated volunteers and local sponsors. The 2025 program is yet to be announced, but expect a weekend full of community spirit and celebration.
31 March - MENA Monday in Groningen
Kick off the citywide MENA program with MENA Monday at De Oosterpoort. This event showcases music from professional MENA musicians in Groningen, along with artwork, literature, and poetry from talented creators. Enjoy delicious food and drinks while connecting with others in a welcoming atmosphere. The perfect introduction to a cultural journey through the Middle East and North Africa!
