Official Start of Spring 2025: When Does Spring Begin?

The official start of spring is an exciting time of renewal, growth, and longer days. It marks the transition from winter to warmer weather, bringing flowers in bloom, outdoor activities, and more sunshine.

In 2025, the official start of spring will occur on Thursday, March 20, coinciding with the Spring Equinox. This guide explains the science behind the season change, its historical and cultural significance, and the best ways to celebrate spring’s arrival.

When Is the Official Start of Spring in 2025?

📅 Date: Thursday, March 20, 2025
⏰ Time: 03:06 UTC (Coordinated Universal Time)

🌍 Time Conversions for Different Regions:

United Kingdom (GMT): March 20, 03:06 AM
Eastern Time (ET, USA & Canada): March 19, 11:06 PM
Pacific Time (PT, USA & Canada): March 19, 8:06 PM
Central Europe (CET): March 20, 4:06 AM
Australia (AEDT): March 20, 2:06 PM

Since the official start of spring is determined by astronomical events, its exact timing varies slightly each year. However, it generally falls between March 19 and March 21.

What Is the Official Start of Spring?

The official start of spring is based on the Spring Equinox, also known as the Vernal Equinox.

What Happens on the Spring Equinox?

☀️ The Sun crosses the celestial equator, moving from the Southern Hemisphere to the Northern Hemisphere.
🌍 Day and night are nearly equal in length across the world.
🌱 Spring officially begins, bringing longer daylight hours and shorter nights.

The term “equinox” comes from the Latin words “aequus” (equal) and “nox” (night), symbolizing the balance of light and darkness on this day.

After the Spring Equinox, the Northern Hemisphere starts tilting toward the Sun, leading to warmer temperatures and extended daylight hours.

The Science Behind the Start of Spring

Why Does Spring Begin on March 20?

Earth is tilted at a 23.5-degree angle as it orbits the Sun.
On the Spring Equinox, the Sun shines directly above the equator, creating nearly equal daylight and darkness worldwide.
After the equinox, the Northern Hemisphere starts tilting toward the Sun, leading to longer, sunnier days and rising temperatures.

How Do Daylight Hours Change After the Equinox?

Before March 20: Days are shorter and nights are longer.
After March 20: Days grow longer and nights shorter as summer approaches.
Farther north, regions experience rapidly increasing daylight hours, leading up to the Midnight Sun in Arctic areas.

Cultural and Historical Significance of the Official Start of Spring

Since ancient times, many cultures have honored the start of spring with festivals, traditions, and ceremonies that celebrate renewal and fertility.

1. Nowruz (Persian New Year)

📍 Iran, Central Asia, Middle East

Nowruz, meaning “New Day,” marks the Persian New Year on the Spring Equinox.
Traditions include spring cleaning, feasting, fire-jumping, and family gatherings.

2. Ostara (Pagan and Wiccan Traditions)

📍 Europe, Modern Paganism

Ostara is a Pagan festival celebrating fertility, balance, and new beginnings.
Eggs, rabbits, and flowers symbolize rebirth and renewal, influencing modern Easter traditions.

3. Holi (Hindu Festival of Colors)

📍 India, Nepal, South Asia

Holi, or the Festival of Colors, celebrates spring’s arrival with joyful dancing, music, and throwing colored powders.
The festival represents love, unity, and the triumph of good over evil.

4. Higan (Japanese Buddhist Tradition)

📍 Japan

Higan is a Buddhist holiday observed during the Spring and Autumn Equinox.
Families visit graves, clean tombstones, and reflect on balance in life.

5. Chichen Itza (Mayan Equinox Ceremony)

📍 Mexico

The Mayan pyramid of El Castillo aligns with the Spring Equinox, creating a shadow of a serpent moving down the stairs.
Thousands of people gather to witness this astronomical and spiritual event.

Ways to Celebrate the Official Start 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: Observe the first sunrise or sunset of spring.
Benefit: Connects you to seasonal rhythms and natural beauty.

2. Start a Garden or Plant Flowers

Idea: Plant spring flowers, herbs, or vegetables.
Benefit: Encourages growth, renewal, and sustainability.

3. Do a Spring Cleaning

Idea: Refresh your home, workspace, or wardrobe.
Benefit: Creates a clean and positive environment.

4. Spend Time Outdoors

Idea: Go for a walk, hike, or picnic in nature.
Benefit: Boosts mental and physical well-being.

5. Try a Traditional Spring Recipe

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

6. Celebrate With a Spring Ritual

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

7. Decorate With Flowers and Spring Colors

Idea: Bring fresh flowers and pastel colors into your home.
Benefit: Adds brightness and renewal to your space.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Official Start of Spring 2025

1. When does spring officially start in 2025?

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

2. Why does the Spring Equinox happen?

It occurs when the Sun crosses the celestial equator, making day and night nearly equal worldwide.

3. How long is daylight on the first day of spring?

Daylight lasts about 12 hours, but days will get longer after the equinox.

4. Is the first day of spring the warmest day of the year?

No, temperatures gradually increase after the equinox, with the warmest days typically in summer.

5. What happens in the Southern Hemisphere?

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

Conclusion

The official start of spring in 2025 occurs on March 20, marking the Spring Equinox. This special day symbolizes renewal, balance, and longer daylight hours.

Whether you observe the equinox through science, culture, or personal rituals, take time to appreciate the changing seasons, embrace nature, and set new intentions.

🌸 Celebrate spring 2025! Welcome longer days, blooming flowers, and new beginnings! 🌞