Welcome to March! It appears to have come in like a lion, which is good news for those who like skiing, sledding, snowshoeing, falling down, watching icicles form on their eyebrows and whatnot. For the rest of us, however, it’s kind of a bummer.

But don’t fret, all you lovers of warmth and dryness — with March comes some of Maine’s signature events that won’t require you to freeze your tushies off in the process. Here are just a few:

MAINE RESTAURANT WEEK — Once a year, restaurants throughout Maine offer three-course meals at a fraction of the normal cost. This is your chance to check out that nationally renowned restaurant you’ve been hearing about for years but couldn’t afford. The week also includes several special events, including “Wines Around the World,” “Camden Gourmet Adventure” and the ever-popular “Incredible Breakfast Cook-Off.”

Maine Restaurant Week officially begins today and continues through March 10. For information on events and a list of participating restaurants, go to mainerestaurantweek.com; for a full story, go to www.pressherald.com/life/foodanddining.

PORTLAND FLOWER SHOW — This annual event at the Portland Company Complex is a sure-fire way to get into the mood for spring. Exhibitors create elaborate designs to showcase their products; lecturers provide tips on planting, growing and displaying your garden; and everything from plants and flowers to crafts and food are on sale. You can save money by buying tickets in advance — especially if you plan on going more than one day.

The Portland Flower Show kicks off Wednesday with an opening-night gala, and continues through March 11. For a full schedule and prices, go to portlandcompany.com/flower. Look for a preview in this week’s Maine Sunday Telegram.

MAINE MAPLE SUNDAY — Sure, you can buy authentic Maine maple syrup at the grocery store, but what fun is that? Better to get it straight from the tap, pour it on a mess ‘o pancakes and eat it with friends on the same farm from whence it came.

On March 25 (and, in some cases, March 24), sugarhouses throughout the state will throw open their doors to hungry visitors, who will not only be able to eat free samples but listen to live music, take tours of the grounds and watch demonstrations on how maple syrup is produced. The Maine Maple Producers Association says that there will be more sugarhouses than ever participating this year, so build up an appetite.

For more information and a map of participating sugarhouses, go to mainemapleproducers.com.

Deputy Managing Editor Rod Harmon may be contacted at 791-6450 or at:

rharmon@pressherald.com

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