1st Day of Spring 2025: When Does Spring Begin?

The first day of spring in 2025 marks the Spring Equinox, an astronomical event that signifies the transition from winter to spring in the Northern Hemisphere. This day brings longer daylight hours, blooming flowers, and warmer temperatures, making it a time of renewal and seasonal change.

In 2025, the Spring Equinox will occur on Thursday, March 20. This guide explores the science behind the equinox, cultural traditions, and ways to celebrate the arrival of spring.

When Is the 1st Day of Spring in 2025?

The first day of spring in 2025 will be:
📅 Date: Thursday, March 20, 2025
⏰ Time: 03:06 UTC (Coordinated Universal Time)

In North America (Eastern Time Zone) → March 19, 2025, at 11:06 PM ET.
In the UK (GMT) → March 20, 2025, at 03:06 AM GMT.
In Australia (AEDT) → March 20, 2025, at 2:06 PM AEDT.

Since the Spring Equinox is based on the Earth’s position in its orbit, the exact time varies slightly each year. However, it typically occurs between March 19 and March 21.

What Is the Spring Equinox?

The Spring Equinox, also known as the Vernal Equinox, is one of two equinoxes that occur annually (the other being the Autumn Equinox in September).

On this day:
☀️ Day and night are nearly equal in length due to the Sun crossing the celestial equator.
🌍 The Northern Hemisphere moves toward the Sun, leading to longer daylight hours and warmer temperatures.
🍃 Spring officially begins, bringing the return of greenery, flowers, and new life.

The word “equinox” comes from the Latin words “aequus” (equal) and “nox” (night), meaning “equal night”, as day and night are nearly the same length worldwide.

The Science Behind the Spring Equinox

Why Does the Spring Equinox Happen?

The Earth orbits the Sun at a 23.5-degree tilt.
As the Earth moves around the Sun, different parts receive varying amounts of sunlight, causing the seasons to change.
On the Spring Equinox, the Sun shines directly over the equator, making day and night nearly equal in length across the world.

How Does Daylight Change After the Equinox?

After March 20, the Northern Hemisphere starts getting more sunlight, leading to longer days and shorter nights.
The further north you live, the greater the increase in daylight each day.
In contrast, the Southern Hemisphere experiences the Autumn Equinox, as they transition into fall and shorter daylight hours.

Cultural and Historical Traditions of the 1st Day of Spring

Many ancient civilizations and modern cultures have celebrated the arrival of spring with festivals, traditions, and rituals.

1. Nowruz (Persian New Year)

📍 Iran, Central Asia, Middle East

Nowruz (meaning “New Day”) is an ancient Persian festival celebrating the new year on the Spring Equinox.
Traditions include family gatherings, feasts, fire-jumping ceremonies, and cleaning homes (spring cleaning).

2. Ostara (Pagan and Wiccan Traditions)

📍 Europe, Modern Paganism

Ostara is an ancient Pagan festival honoring the goddess of spring, fertility, and renewal.
Eggs, hares, and flowers symbolize new beginnings—many of these traditions influenced modern Easter celebrations.

3. Holi (Hindu Festival of Colors)

📍 India, Nepal, South Asia

Holi, also known as the Festival of Colors, marks the arrival of spring with joyful celebrations, music, dancing, and throwing colored powders.
The festival represents love, unity, and the triumph of good over evil.

4. Higan (Japanese Equinox Celebration)

📍 Japan

During Higan, Japanese families visit the graves of ancestors, clean tombstones, and reflect on Buddhist teachings.
The Spring and Autumn Equinoxes are special Buddhist holidays that emphasize balance, renewal, and gratitude.

5. Easter and Passover (Christian and Jewish Traditions)

📍 Worldwide

Easter, the Christian celebration of Jesus Christ’s resurrection, is linked to springtime renewal.
Passover, a Jewish holiday, celebrates freedom and new beginnings, often aligning with spring themes.

How to Celebrate the First Day of Spring 2025

Whether you enjoy nature, spirituality, or cultural traditions, there are many ways to welcome spring in 2025.

1. Watch the Sunrise or Sunset

Idea: Wake up early to see the sunrise or enjoy the longer daylight hours in the evening.
Benefit: Connect with nature and appreciate seasonal changes.

2. Start a Garden or Plant Flowers

Idea: Plant flowers, herbs, or vegetables to celebrate growth and renewal.
Benefit: Enhances well-being and brings beauty to your surroundings.

3. Do a Spring Cleaning

Idea: Refresh your home by decluttering and deep-cleaning.
Benefit: Creates a positive and energized environment.

4. Spend Time Outdoors

Idea: Go for a walk, picnic, or hike to enjoy the warmer weather and fresh air.
Benefit: Boosts mood, reduces stress, and improves health.

5. Celebrate with a Spring Equinox Ritual

Idea: Light a candle, set new goals, or meditate to embrace new beginnings.
Benefit: Encourages self-reflection and personal growth.

6. Decorate with Flowers and Spring Colors

Idea: Bring fresh flowers, pastel colors, and nature-inspired decorations into your home.
Benefit: Adds vibrancy and positivity to your space.

7. Try a Traditional Spring Recipe

Idea: Cook a meal using seasonal ingredients like asparagus, strawberries, and fresh greens.
Benefit: Supports healthy eating and seasonal awareness.

Frequently Asked Questions About the 1st Day of Spring 2025

1. When does spring start in 2025?

Spring begins on Thursday, March 20, 2025, with the Spring Equinox.

2. Why does the date of the Spring Equinox change?

The equinox timing shifts slightly due to Earth’s orbit and leap years, but it always falls between March 19-21.

3. How many hours of daylight will there be?

Day and night are nearly equal worldwide (around 12 hours each), but daylight hours will continue increasing after the equinox.

4. Does the Spring Equinox affect the weather?

Not immediately, but temperatures gradually warm up as sunlight increases.

5. What happens in the Southern Hemisphere?

In the Southern Hemisphere, March 20, 2025, marks the Autumn Equinox, the start of fall.

Conclusion

The 1st day of spring in 2025 will be on March 20, marking the Spring Equinox. This event symbolizes renewal, balance, and growth, inspiring cultures worldwide to celebrate.

Whether you observe the equinox through science, spirituality, or traditions, take time to appreciate the changing seasons, enjoy nature, and embrace new beginnings.

🌸 Welcome the beauty of spring 2025 with longer days, blooming flowers, and joyful celebrations! 🌞