March 15

Ides of March

A heritage observance on March 15 rooted in the ancient Roman calendar, marking religious observances to Jupiter and Anna Perenna, debt settlements, and the midpoint of the month.

Yearly Date

March 15

Observed

Internationally

Introduction

Mark your calendars for the Ides of March on March 15! This day has a long and interesting history, with roots tracing back to ancient Rome. It is said that Julius Caesar was warned to “beware the Ides of March” by a soothsayer shortly before he was assassinated in 44 B.C. Today, it's a day to celebrate resilience and overcome the challenges life throws at us. Whether you use it as a reminder to stay strong or take some time out for self-care, the Ides of March is an excellent opportunity to reflect and appreciate all that we have.

Ides of March Timeline

753 BC

Foundation of Roman Calendar

The legendary founding of Rome and the creation of the Roman calendar, which marked the Ides as the 15th day of March, May, July, and October.

509 BC

Roman Republic Established

The Roman Republic is established, further institutionalizing the calendar system and its notable dates, including the Ides of March.

44 BC

Assassination of Caesar

Julius Caesar, the Roman dictator, is assassinated on the Ides of March by a group of conspiring senators, making the date notorious.

1599

Shakespeare's "Julius Caesar"

William Shakespeare's play "Julius Caesar" is first performed, popularizing the phrase "Beware the Ides of March" and cementing the date's infamy in popular culture.

1781

Discovery of Uranus

Astronomer William Herschel discovers the planet Uranus on the Ides of March, adding a modern scientific significance to the date.

Today

Continued Observance

The Ides of March continues to be noted for its historic and cultural significance, often serving as a day of reflection on the past.

How to Celebrate Ides of March

1 Watch a Shakespeare Play

Head to your local theater for a production of one of Shakespeare's most famous plays, Julius Caesar. Immerse yourself in the tragedy and drama of the Ides of March.

2 Read Julius Caesar

Pick up a copy of Julius Caesar at your local library and read it to learn more about the history of the Ides of March. Discuss it with friends and family to get more perspectives on the play.

3 Host a Murder Mystery Dinner

Host a dinner party with a twist—a murder mystery dinner! Invite friends and family to dress up as characters from Julius Caesar or other famous plays and explore the theme of betrayal and political intrigue.

4 Bake Ides of March Cookies

Bake cookies shaped like daggers, swords, or crowns to commemorate the Ides of March. Decorate them with icing and sprinkles and share with friends and family.

5 Hold an Ides of March Parade

Gather your friends and family together for an Ides of March parade. Dress up as characters from Julius Caesar or other plays, decorate floats, and march through your town to spread the word about this important day in history!

Why We Love Ides of March

It marks the beginning of spring

The Ides of March marks the middle of March, which is traditionally seen as the start of spring in many parts of the world. This means warmer weather, beautiful blooms and the opportunity to enjoy all that nature has to offer us after a long winter!

It has a significant historical significance

For those who are familiar with Roman history, it's important to note that the Ides of March was the day on which Julius Caesar was assassinated on in 44 BC. Unfortunately, this is not something to be celebrated but rather recognized as a significant event in history.

It's an opportunity for celebration

Despite having a dark past associated with it, the Ides of March is still an excellent excuse for people to get together and celebrate! Whether you plan a gathering or just take some time to connect with friends and family, it's always nice to have an occasion to look forward to.