March Madness Arrives, Seals Face Buffalo, Community Events Fill the Weekend

It is a busy Saturday across San Diego, with college basketball, pro lacrosse and community celebrations drawing crowds from Mission Valley to La Jolla.

March Madness at Viejas Arena

The NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament is officially in town. Viejas Arena is hosting first and second round games through March 22, bringing national attention and an economic boost to the SDSU campus area.

While San Diego State narrowly missed the tournament this year, the city is still front and center as fans pack hotels, restaurants and trolley lines for a full weekend of action.

Seals Take on Buffalo Tonight

At Pechanga Arena, the San Diego Seals face the Buffalo Bandits in a key matchup tonight. The game adds to a packed sports weekend that also includes the San Diego Gulls’ Friday night home game and more events on Sunday.

With playoff positioning tightening, tonight’s lacrosse showdown is expected to draw a lively home crowd.

World Down Syndrome Day Celebration

Families are also gathering today for the 2026 World Down Syndrome Day event in San Diego. The afternoon celebration highlights inclusion, advocacy and community support, with local organizations hosting activities and outreach efforts.

The annual event has grown in recent years, becoming an important moment of connection for families across the county.

Aquarium and Safari Park Highlights

In La Jolla, Birch Aquarium continues its Animal Crossing Aquarium Tour, blending pop culture with marine science in a family-friendly experience running through late March.

Meanwhile, the San Diego Zoo Safari Park is showcasing its newly opened Denny Sanford Elephant Valley habitat, offering visitors an immersive savanna-style setting included with admission.

From college hoops to community gatherings and wildlife adventures, the first weekend of spring is keeping San Diego moving.

Sources

https://www.axios.com/local/san-diego/2026/03/16/sdsu-ucsd-basketball-march-madness-bracket-2026-ncaa-tournament
https://pechangaarenasd.com/events/month/2026-03/
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/2026-world-down-syndrome-day-in-san-diego-tickets-1983548281305
https://www.sandiegofamily.com/things-to-do/events-calendar/day/03-21-2026