Kaiserslautern is welcoming spring with city shopping events starting on March 16 and 17. (Kaiserslautern City)

Kaiserslautern is set to shake off the winter blues with its “Lautern blüht auf,” or “Kaiserslautern blooms” event on March 16 and 17, offering a mix of shopping, live music, and automotive showcases. Downtown stores will offer extended browsing hours Sunday, opening from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m. Highlights include live performances by local bands and various offerings from the city’s retailers and craftsmen showcasing their wares and crafts at stands throughout downtown. For the young ones, the event promises a balloon artist and the presence of a local Easter bunny ready for photo ops.