With snow still on the ground from this past weekend, Memphis events synonymous with warm spring days—the start of the Redbirds’ season, Memphis in May, even picnics at Shelby Farms—feel a long ways off. But before we bid adieu to cool temperatures for good, there’s still plenty going on in March in Memphis.

For college basketball fans March means one thing—March Madness. The surging Memphis Tigers, led by seniors Antonio Anderson and Robert Dozier and stand-out freshman Tyreke Evans, will look to make another run deep into the NCAA Tournament. The Tigers have made it at least to the Elite 8 the past three seasons, coming up just short of winning the national title last year against Kansas. Before the team vies for a spot at this year’s Final Four in Detroit, they’ll look to win their fourth straight Conference USA Tournament, which runs March 11-14. Including post-season games, Memphis is riding an incredible 56-game C-USA winning streak. To watch the Tigers try to extend that streak and take home another conference tournament title, order your tickets now at www.fedexforum.com or by calling 1-888-867-UofM.

If you’re looking for some roundball action with lots of razzle-dazzle, the Harlem Globetrotters will make at stop on their 2009 World Tour at the FedEx Forum on March 15. The Globetrotters have wowed spectators with their unique blend of skill, athleticism, and comedy for nine decades. For a look at their current roster, go to www.harlemglobetrotters.com.

Put on something green and head down to Beale Street on March 14 for the annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade. Don’t limit your day to just downing some green beer and parade-gazing, though. Stop by one of the city’s Irish pubs to enjoy the day’s festivities by feasting on some traditional Irish cuisine—and maybe having another pint of green beer. I recommend Celtic Crossing. The cozy pub located at 903 South Cooper offers a host of tasty lunch and dinner dishes as well as a nice selection of Irish beers, whiskeys, and liquors. If the weather is nice, be sure to ask for a seat on their patio. Other pubs include Murphy’s, Dan McGuiness, and Silky O’Sullivan’s, home of the "diver," a gallon-sized bucket of beer.