The groundhog has spoken, spring is officially heading our way. As the trees bloom and folks start to make their way out of hibernation, Atlanta comes alive. There seems to be a festival or a race nearly every weekend. Here are the things you won't want to miss in March.

Atlanta Fair | Through April 2

Between rides on the Ferris wheel and snacking on footlong corndogs, the Atlanta Fair speaks to child in all of us. Whether you are 8 or 80, there is something to entertain you. This is the only fair within the city limits, so enjoy that Ferris wheel ride with the view of the Atlanta skyline right there.

Risotto Month | March 1 - 31

Purim on Ponce | March 5

1611 Ellsworth Industrial Blvd. NW, Atlanta, GA 30318

Purim is one of the wildest Jewish holidays on the calendar. Think a mix of Mardi Gras and April Fool's Day. Sojourn celebrates this raucous celebration every year with a costume party and fundraiser. This year's theme is "Wild" and guests are encouraged to dress in outfits that channel the wild kingdom. Leopard print is encouraged. Tickets start at $75.

Lady Locavores | March 8

1240 Old Chattahoochee Ave. NW Atlanta, GA 30318

In honor of the women who play a vital role in the food community, the Community Farmers Markets is hosting a night of great food from the best female chefs in Atlanta. Join such names as Virginia Willis and Linda Harrel for a night of dining at the GarnerGirls Culinary Studio. Tickets are $50.

Biggie Dinner | March 9

483 Edgewood Ave. SE, Atlanta, GA 30312

On Wednesday, March 9, The Sound Table is hosting T-bone steak, Cheese Eggs and Welch's Grape: A gastronomic tribute to the Notorious B.I.G. Attendees will enjoy a 5-course meal that will be paired with a special cocktail created by Navarro Carr. Tickets are $60.

St. Patrick's Day Parade| March 12

Midtown Atlanta

One of the nation’s oldest St. Patrick’s Day parades, Atlanta’s dates back to 1858. The parade winds up Peachtree Street in Midtown, and attracts revelers from Atlanta and beyond. In 2015, the prime minister of Ireland was the grand marshal. Who will it be this year — Bono? Dare we hope?

Hunger Walk | March 13 

755 Hank Aaron Drive SE, Atlanta, GA 30315

For the 32nd year, the Atlanta Community Food Bank is hosting the Hunger Walk to raise money for the hungry in Georgia. An expected 15,000 participants will gather at Turner Field for the 5K walk and run. Money raised goes to the Atlanta Community Food Bank and other nonprofits in the Atlanta area. Over the years, the walk has raised more than $7 million.

Acworth Egg Hunt | March 18

How about the Easter Bunny parachuting into an Easter egg hunt? Well, that’s exactly what Acworth will do to kick off their nighttime egg hunt this year. Other activities before the hunt will include face painting and a petting zoo. The hunt begins at 7:30 p.m. and is free.

For more Easter egg hunts in the dark, check out our roundup here.

Que & Brew for a Cause | March 20

Sweetwater Brewery and Fox Bros BBQ are teaming up to help out one of Fox Bros longtime employees, who was diagnosed with Stage II pancreatic cancer in 2015.  Tickets are $30 and include tastings of Sweetwater and bites from a dozen restaurateurs including, Ford Fry and Kevin Rathbun.

Publix Georgia Marathon and Half Marathon |March 20

Strap on your running shoes, it's time for a race. Now in its 10th year, the Publix Georgia Marathon and Half Marathon has grown to include thousands of runners. The race kicks off at Centennial Olympic Park before winding through Atlanta. If you're not quite ready to run, the race is in search of volunteers.

Baconfest | March 26

Every year the fine folks of Dad’s Garage step out of their usual role of making us laugh and does us one better, serve us bacon. Their annual bacon fete brings in funds by slinging bacon and beer and putting together one of the finest silent auctions any Atlanta lover will ever find.