March 2025 promises to be an exciting month filled with significant events, captivating festivities, and rich traditions. From the enthusiastic anticipation of college basketball tournaments to the community celebrations for children's activities, and the sacred observance of Ramadan, March is shaping up as a month of engagement diversity.
One of the most awaited events of March is the NCAA Basketball Tournament, commonly referred to as March Madness. This exhilarating tournament features 68 college basketball teams competing for the national championship title. March Madness kicks off with Selection Sunday on March 16, 2025, when the Selection Committee reveals the tournament brackets. According to reports, fans are particularly excited this year as Ohio State and Cincinnati have strong chances of making it to the tournament. Notably, the University of Dayton is set to host the 'First Four' games at UD Arena, commencing March 18, solidifying its position as the hub of initial tournament action.
For those enthusiastic about women’s sports, the women's NCAA tournament will commence the following day, March 19. This year's title games are highly anticipated, with the men's national championship scheduled for April 7 at 8:50 p.m. ET, and the women's championship set for April 6 at 3 p.m. ET, both promising thrilling displays of talent and sportsmanship.
Meanwhile, communities will have their hands full with local activities during March Break. At the Stirling-Rawdon Library, exciting activities will run from March 12 to 17, catering to children of all ages. Jaye Bannon, the Head Librarian, expressed her enthusiasm about the upcoming events, stating, "We are thrilled to be able to offer a range of truly amazing activities for kids of all ages." From games and crafts to events celebrating beloved characters from children’s literature, this year is filled with delightful occasions. Activities include Dog Man Day, Fancy Nancy Tea Party, and Scooby-Doo Library Mystery Scavenger Hunt, promising delight for all involved.
Stirling-Rawdon Library’s commitment to community service shines through as they offer these programs completely free of charge, ensuring accessibility for everyone. Notably, Hannah Collins, a recent graduate specializing in Animation, will lead workshops culminating in digital animation showcases. "Our facility should be viewed as an Essential community resource," states Bannon, reinforcing the library's role in fostering creativity and engagement.
Now, transitioning from recreation to solemn traditions, Ramadan is expected to commence on March 1, 2025, as noted by Abdullah bin Sulaiman Al Manea from the Senior Scholars Council, who stated, "Ramadan will start on March 1..." Following the lunar calendar, Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic year, is characterized by fasting from dawn to sunset. During this holy month, Muslims abstain from eating and drinking, engaging instead in increased prayer and spirituality.
The significance of Ramadan is palpable across Muslim communities as families come together, share meals after sunset, and offer prayers at mosques. Traditional iftar meals include delectable dishes like kabsa and sambusa, enhancing the sense of community during this important observance.
This March also serves as an opportunity to engage with various cultural events, bringing people together through sports, community activities, and religious observance. With March Madness igniting school spirit, the Stirling-Rawdon Library nurturing creativity, and Ramadan enriching faith and family bonds, this month holds promises of joy and connection.
All these events cements March 2025 as not just another month on the calendar, but as one where communities can celebrate their passions, nurtures creativity and faith, and share collective memories. The thrill of college basketball, the joy of community libraries, and the devotion during Ramadan all converge beautifully during this time, offering something for everyone.