The spring equinox is heralded as the commencement of spring in the Northern Hemisphere. Also referred to as the March equinox or vernal equinox, it signifies the moment when the sun crosses the equator line. As the sun journeys northward, it signals the onset of springtime.
According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, the term “equinox” originates from the Latin words “aequi,” meaning “equal,” and “nox,” meaning “night.” Together, “equinox” implies “equal night,” accurately describing the phenomenon of the spring equinox. Across the globe, during this event, both daytime and nighttime are of equal duration.
In 2025, the spring equinox, marking the first day of spring, will fall on Thursday, March 20. This date is determined by the anticipated crossing of the sun over the equator, recognized as the initial astronomical day of spring in accordance with the Gregorian calendar.
Is the Spring Equinox Fixed on the Same Date Each Year? Not quite. Due to Earth’s orbit taking approximately 365.25 days to complete, the spring equinox varies from one year to the next. Next year, in 2026, the spring equinox will occur on Friday, March 20.
As the sun shifts northward across the equator during the spring equinox, the Northern Hemisphere tilts closer to it. This tilt results in increased daylight hours and warmer temperatures. Conversely, in the Southern Hemisphere, this event signals the advent of fall, with reduced daylight hours and cooler weather.
The spring equinox holds deep cultural significance, symbolizing rebirth, fertility, and fresh beginnings. Celebrated for centuries, various cultures observe this occasion in diverse ways. From the ancient Maya gathering to watch shadows play on architectural structures to Japan’s week-long festival, the spring equinox is cherished worldwide for its associations with new life and rejuvenation.
One of the most renowned celebrations during this time is the Persian New Year, known as Nowruz or the Iranian New Year. Observed by millions globally, this secular holiday marks the beginning of the month Farvardin on the Iranian calendar, symbolizing renewal and hope for the year ahead.
Traditionally, people around the world joyously mark the arrival of the spring equinox with age-old customs such as leaping over a bonfire or setting off dazzling fireworks. However, in the United States, the observance of this seasonal event lacks a universal tradition that everyone adheres to. Instead, Americans have embraced a more diverse approach, focusing on relishing the pleasant weather, immersing themselves in the outdoors, tending to blooming flowers or nurturing gardens, and even engaging in the art of embellishing Easter eggs in anticipation of the upcoming holiday festivities. Stay tuned for more insights on related topics, including a delightful array of 35 spring appetizers that cater to a variety of celebratory occasions.
