At the spring equinox, which marks the beginning of spring in the northern hemisphere, the Earth’s axis tilts in such a way that day and night are nearly the same length. The equinox occurs twice a year – in March and September.
Wherever you are on the planet, the equinox happens at the same moment. For those south of the equator, the event marks the first day of autumn.
In 2025, the equinox will be on March 20 at 09:01 GMT.
Curiosity: Does the Equinox Really Mark the First Day of Spring?
There is a difference of opinion on when spring begins.
Meteorological spring began in the northern hemisphere on March 1. Indeed, those in the northern hemisphere have already noticed a slight increase in temperature and the first plant buds appearing. This date is the preferred option by meteorologists. It is set every year to ensure that statistics are consistent over time.
The equinox marks the beginning of astronomical spring – preferred by astronomers. It can vary slightly each year along with the equinox. Spring falls between March 19 and 23 when defined by this method.
You may also consider phenology – the behavior of plants and animals in response to climatic changes – as another marker for the beginning of spring.
For those who follow nature, the dates for the beginning of phenological spring are highly variable due to weather conditions and species.
But climate change is also impacting these dates.
Celebrating the Spring Equinox
The concept of the spring equinox was celebrated by ancient civilizations such as the Egyptians, Greeks, and Persians, often associated with the rebirth of nature and fertility rituals.
Even the date of Easter was determined by it, falling on the Sunday after the first full moon following the spring equinox.
Source: BBC