When Is The First Day Of Spring 2022? - Spring Equinox, Explained

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Spring has a way of stealing the spotlight after a long winter. Brighter blooms, warmer days, and longer evenings truly make the season feel like a fresh start—and the calendar doesn't hurt, either with holidays like St. Patrick's Day, Easter, and Mother's Day giving us all even more reasons to celebrate the season.

That leads to the big question: When is the first day of spring in 2026? And how is that date officially determined? To answer both questions, you'll need a quick meteorological lesson. So, read on to figure out when spring will, well, spring!

What is the first day of spring 2026?

The official first day of spring depends on where you live and which system you follow. In the Northern Hemisphere, spring begins at the March (vernal) equinox—an event that happens at one exact moment worldwide, though the clock time varies by time zone. In 2026, the March equinox occurs on Friday, March 20, at 10:46 A.M. EST, marking the start of spring in the Northern Hemisphere. In the Southern Hemisphere, that same equinox signals the start of autumn instead.

There's also meteorological spring, which many meteorologists define as March 1 through May 31. Rather than basing its reasoning on the earth's rotation, this calculation system looks at annual temperature cycles to decide when spring really begins, splitting the year into three-month periods for each season.

What is the spring equinox, and why is it the first day of spring?

The equinox simply means that the length of day and night are (almost!) equal. (In fact, the word "equinox" comes from two Latin words that together mean "equal night": aequus (equal) and nox (night). So, on March 20, there will be approximately 12 hours of sunlight! After this day, this hemisphere starts tilting toward the sun, which means more daylight each day and warmer, springier weather. Hello, redbuds!

And keep in mind the time change that happens before the March equinox: Daylight Saving Time begins on March 8 (spring forward!), bringing longer evening light just in time for the first day of the season.

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How to Celebrate Spring

With spring comes warmer weather and an abundance of blooming plants, flowers, and trees—all symbolizing fresh starts and new beginnings. So, you should use that symbolism in your own life, and get outside to celebrate the season! Here are a few fun ways you can do that:

Get gardening: Whether you have a green thumb or are new to the hobby, spring is the perfect time to grab those seeds and start planting. You can grow anything from veggies and herbs to pretty flowers.
Enjoy the sunrise and sunset: The sun rises and sets at different times throughout the year due to the Earth's tilt. With longer days and warmer temperatures, it's the perfect time to sit outside and enjoy the colorful sky.
Watch for baby animals: Bunnies, fawns, calves, fox pups, lambs, and so many more furry little friends are born in the springtime. If you try, you might be able to see signs of new life.
Visit a botanical garden or arboretum: With beautiful blossoms and vibrant greenery abound, you'll definitely want to stop by your local botanical garden to enjoy the scenery.

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Cook something seasonal: There are so many fresh flavors to break out as the seasons change. Try lighter and brighter recipes filled with spring fruits and veggies that you'll be delighted to dish out.
Take a hike, go on a walk, or ride a bike: Since the cold has kept you cooped up all winter, take advantage of the warming temperatures and fresh air by spending some much needed time outside.
Set up a bird feeder: As our feathered friends who migrated for the winter return to their breeding grounds, it's a great idea to help them out by making a bird feeder full of foods like seeds, fruit, and peanut butter.
Make spring crafts: Let your creativity bloom and brighten up your home with a few fun crafts. Homemade flower pots, wind chimes, sun catchers, and wreaths are just the beginning.
Pack a picnic: Grab your picnic basket and blanket, then get ready to dine al fresco! There are plenty of portable recipes you can bring along to eat as you enjoy the great outdoors.