How Many Days Until Spring?
Spring 2026 begins on Friday, March 20, 2026.
About Spring
Spring is the season of renewal and rebirth, marked by the Spring Equinox when day and night are nearly equal in length. As temperatures rise, plants bloom, animals awaken from hibernation or return from migration, and the world transforms with vibrant colors and new life.
The Science of Spring
The Equinox
The Spring (or Vernal) Equinox occurs when the Sun crosses the celestial equator, moving from south to north. This astronomical event marks the first day of spring in the Northern Hemisphere and happens around March 20-21 each year.
Hemispheric Differences
While the Northern Hemisphere experiences spring in March-June, the Southern Hemisphere experiences autumn during this time. The seasons are reversed due to the Earth's axial tilt relative to the sun.
Changing Temperatures
Spring is characterized by gradually warming temperatures as the Earth's hemisphere tilts more directly toward the sun. This warming triggers biological changes in plants and animals.
Changing Daylight
After the Spring Equinox, daylight hours become increasingly longer than nighttime hours, until reaching the Summer Solstice when daylight is at its maximum.
Spring Phenology: Nature's Calendar
Phenology is the study of cyclic natural phenomena, especially in relation to climate and plant and animal life. Here's how spring unfolds:
First Signs
- Snowdrops and crocuses emerge
- Tree sap begins to flow
- First frogs and toads become active
- Early birds begin nest building
Peak Bloom
- Fruit trees blossom
- Leaf buds burst on deciduous trees
- Amphibian breeding peaks
- Butterflies emerge from hibernation
Full Transformation
- Trees fully leafed out
- Migratory birds return
- Insect populations increase
- Spring wildflowers at peak bloom
Important Spring Dates & Celebrations
Easter
Date varies (March-April)
A Christian holiday celebrating the resurrection of Jesus, Easter is also associated with secular traditions like egg hunts and the Easter Bunny.
Arbor Day
Last Friday in April (US)
A holiday dedicated to planting and caring for trees, first observed in Nebraska in 1872 and now celebrated in many countries worldwide.
Earth Day
April 22
An annual event demonstrating support for environmental protection, first celebrated in 1970 and now recognized in more than 193 countries.
Mother's Day
Second Sunday in May (US)
A celebration honoring mothers and motherhood, and the maternal bonds and influences of mothers in society.
Holi
Full moon in March (varies)
A Hindu spring festival known as the "festival of colors" or "festival of love," celebrated primarily in India and Nepal.
May Day
May 1
A traditional spring holiday in many cultures, celebrating the midpoint of the season with maypoles, flowers, and dancing.
Spring Activities & Gardening Tips
Spring Planting
- Start seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before last frost
- Prepare garden beds by clearing debris and adding compost
- Plant cool-season vegetables like lettuce, peas, and spinach
- Divide and transplant perennials before they reach 4-6 inches
Spring Cleaning
- Clean gutters of winter debris
- Check for winter damage on roofs and exteriors
- Open windows to refresh indoor air
- Declutter and reorganize indoor spaces
- Deep clean carpets and upholstery
Outdoor Activities
- Go birdwatching during spring migration
- Visit botanical gardens for spring blooms
- Take a nature walk to spot wildflowers
- Fly kites in the spring breezes
- Start a nature journal to track seasonal changes
Spring Photography
- Capture macro photos of emerging buds and insects
- Document spring blooms in your neighborhood
- Photograph morning dew on spider webs
- Catch the "golden hour" light as days lengthen
- Create a spring time-lapse of a growing plant
Fascinating Spring Facts
The first day of spring in the Northern Hemisphere (Spring Equinox) is the first day of fall in the Southern Hemisphere.
Birds are more vocal during spring as males sing to attract mates and establish territories, with dawn choruses reaching peak intensity.
Spring fever is real—increased light exposure leads to decreased melatonin production, which can lead to feelings of restlessness and increased energy.
The term "spring" as a season name has been used since the 16th century, replacing the Old English term "lent" (which now refers only to the religious period).