What March feels like in Calgary
In Calgary, March brings early spring. Daytime temperatures stay cold, and a warm coat is needed even in the middle of the day. Once the sun goes down the air changes: nights drop well below freezing. Damp air makes the cold feel rawer than the numbers alone suggest.
Rain in Calgary in March
Wet days are occasional rather than regular, about one day in 5. Rainfall per wet day is small, about 3.7 mm (0.1 in), so showers tend to pass quickly. That is lighter than the city's yearly norm of about 5.3 mm per rainy day.
Daylight and sunshine in March
On 15 March the sun rises at about 7:53 am and sets around 7:39 pm local time, giving 11 h 46 min of daylight. Days are getting longer: 1 h 47 min more daylight than in mid-February. About 76% of daylight hours are sunny; in short, there are plenty of bright spells.
How March compares to the rest of the year
In Calgary's temperature order, March sits as the 5th coolest month. Afternoons run 5.7°C (10.3°F) warmer than in February, with 6 mm more rain. The warm-up continues into April. April averages a high of 9.9°C (49.8°F).
Who March suits
- Sightseeing: less ideal — it is cold for long walks.
- Parks & outdoor: less ideal — too cool to sit outside for long.
- Hiking: less ideal — trails are cool.
- Museums & indoor: a good choice — warm places to spend the coldest part of the day.
Tips for visiting Calgary in March
Versatile Layers
Pack pieces you can take off by noon and put back on at dusk.
Warm Layers
A proper winter coat, with gloves and a hat for early starts.
Sunglasses
Bright days make sunglasses worth packing.
Quick questions
How warm is Calgary in March?
It feels cold: typical highs are 4.2°C (39.6°F), with lows near -7.5°C (18.5°F).
Does it rain a lot in Calgary in March?
Only moderately: roughly 6 wet days and 22 mm, usually light showers.
What should I wear in Calgary in March?
Pack versatile layers, warm layers and sunglasses. Bring something extra for the cooler evenings.
Is March or April better for visiting Calgary?
April, clearly: it ranks #7 of 12 among Calgary's months, against #11 for the other. April is warmer and has more rainy days.