Astronomical spring in 2026 begins on Friday, March 20, at 10:46 AM EDT, while meteorological spring starts on Sunday, March 1, 2026.
Astronomical Spring
The first day of astronomical spring, also known as the vernal equinox, occurs when the Sun crosses the celestial equator moving northward, resulting in nearly equal day and night across the globe. In 2026, this moment happens on March 20 at 10:46 AM Eastern Daylight Time (EDT), marking the official start of spring in the Northern Hemisphere and autumn in the Southern Hemisphere. After this date, the Northern Hemisphere tilts more toward the Sun, leading to longer daylight hours and gradually warmer temperatures.
The Old Farmer's Almanac
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Meteorological Spring
Meteorological spring is based on the Gregorian calendar and temperature cycles rather than the Sun’s position. It begins on March 1 and ends on May 31, providing a consistent three-month period for climate statistics and seasonal comparisons. Both definitions are correct but serve different purposes: astronomical spring is used in astronomy and cultural observances, while meteorological spring is used in weather reporting and climatology.
calendarcute.com
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Key Facts
Astronomical Spring Start: March 20, 2026, 10:46 AM EDT
Meteorological Spring Start: March 1, 2026
Day and Night: Nearly equal on the equinox, though atmospheric refraction makes daytime slightly longer than nighttime
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Season Duration: Astronomical spring lasts until the summer solstice on June 20, 2026, while meteorological spring ends on May 31, 2026
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Understanding these two systems helps clarify why different sources may list different start dates for spring. For most practical purposes, March 20, 2026, is recognized as the official first day of spring in the Northern Hemisphere.
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@Very-Rusty saidWOW. You are a veritable font of very important information. Thanks. Did you learn all this in school?🤔
Astronomical spring in 2026 begins on Friday, March 20, at 10:46 AM EDT, while meteorological spring starts on Sunday, March 1, 2026.
Astronomical Spring
The first day of astronomical spring, also known as the vernal equinox, occurs when the Sun crosses the celestial equator moving northward, resulting in nearly equal day and night across the globe. In 2026, this moment ...[text shortened]... poses, March 20, 2026, is recognized as the official first day of spring in the Northern Hemisphere.
@Great-Big-Stees saidCalled copy and paste for those who didn't know!!!! 😛
WOW. You are a veritable font of very important information. Thanks. Did you learn all this in school?🤔
Sarcasm?
-VR
