When Does Spring Start? Your Guide to the Spring Equinox & Wallpapers!

6 minutes read

Ah, spring—the season of blooming flowers, longer days, and fresh beginnings! But when does spring start, exactly? The answer isn’t as simple as flipping a calendar. Depending on where you live and how you define it, the first day of spring can vary.

Most people recognize the spring equinox as the official start of spring. In the northern hemisphere, this usually falls around March 20 or 21, marking the moment when the sun crosses the celestial equator, granting nearly equal daylight and darkness. But in the southern hemisphere, spring begins around September 22 or 23. This split highlights why asking “when is spring?” requires a geographic check-in!

Meteorologists, however, define the spring season by temperature cycles, pegging it to March 1 in the north and September 1 in the south. This “meteorological spring” simplifies forecasting but leaves many wondering: when does spring start this year? In 2025, the spring equinox lands on March 19 for the northern hemisphere—a tad earlier than usual!

Beyond dates, the spring season meaning resonates deeply. Symbolizing renewal, it’s a time for shedding winter’s chill and embracing growth. Whether you’re planting a garden, planning adventures, or simply craving sunshine, knowing when the spring season starts helps you prepare.

So, when does spring begin and end? Typically, it spans three months: March to June in the north, September to December in the south. But nature doesn’t follow strict calendars. Ready to dive deeper into the magic of this vibrant season? Let’s explore!

Understanding the Spring Season

The spring season is one of the four temperate seasons, nestled between winter and summer. It’s a time when nature comes alive: flowers bloom, trees regain their leaves, and animals emerge from hibernation. But what exactly defines spring, and how do we determine when does spring start?

There are two primary ways to define the start of spring: astronomically and meteorologically. Let’s break down both.

Astronomical Spring: The Spring Equinox

The astronomical start of spring is marked by the spring equinox, also known as the vernal equinox. This event occurs when the sun crosses the celestial equator, moving from south to north. During the equinox, day and night are nearly equal in length all over the world—hence the term “equinox,” which comes from the Latin words “aequus” (equal) and “nox” (night).

When Does the Spring Equinox Occur?

In the northern hemisphere, the spring equinox typically falls on March 20 or 21. This marks the first day of spring for countries like the United States, Canada, and most of Europe. In the southern hemisphere, however, the seasons are reversed. For countries like Australia, South Africa, and Argentina, the spring equinox occurs around September 22 or 23.

The exact date of the spring equinox can vary slightly each year due to the Earth’s elliptical orbit and the way we measure time. For example, in 2025, the spring equinox in the northern hemisphere will occur on March 19—a day earlier than usual.

Why Is the Spring Equinox Significant?

The spring equinox has been celebrated for centuries across various cultures. It symbolizes balance, renewal, and the return of light. Many ancient civilizations, such as the Mayans and the Egyptians, built monuments aligned with the equinoxes to mark the changing seasons. Today, it’s still a time of celebration, with festivals like Nowruz (Persian New Year) and Holi (the Hindu festival of colors) coinciding with the equinox.

Meteorological Spring: A Simpler Approach

While the spring equinox is the astronomical start of spring, meteorologists use a different system to define the seasons. Instead of focusing on the Earth’s position relative to the sun, they divide the year into four equal spring months based on temperature patterns and the calendar.

When Does Meteorological Spring Start?

In the northern hemisphere, meteorological spring begins on March 1 and ends on May 31. In the southern hemisphere, it runs from September 1 to November 30. This system is simpler and more consistent, making it easier for weather forecasting and climate studies.

Why Use Meteorological Seasons?

Meteorological seasons align more closely with our calendar and temperature cycles. For example, December, January, and February are typically the coldest months in the northern hemisphere, so they’re grouped as winter. Similarly, March, April, and May are considered spring months because they represent the transition from cold to warm weather.

When Does Spring Start and End?

Now that we’ve covered the two main ways to define spring, let’s answer the question: when does spring start and end?

Astronomical Spring: In the northern hemisphere, it begins on the spring equinox (around March 20) and ends on the summer solstice (around June 21). In the southern hemisphere, it starts around September 22 and ends around December 21.
Meteorological Spring: In the northern hemisphere, it runs from March 1 to May 31. In the southern hemisphere, it spans September 1 to November 30.

This means that the spring season typically lasts about three months, regardless of which system you use. However, the exact timing can vary depending on your location and local climate.

The Meaning of the Spring Season

Beyond its scientific definitions, the spring season meaning holds deep cultural and symbolic significance. Spring is often associated with themes of rebirth, growth, and new beginnings. After the dormancy of winter, the world awakens with vibrant colors and renewed energy.

Symbolism of Spring

Renewal: Spring is a time for cleaning, decluttering, and starting fresh. This is why many cultures have spring cleaning traditions.
Growth: Plants and animals thrive during this season, making it a symbol of fertility and abundance.
Hope: The return of warmth and sunlight after winter’s darkness brings a sense of optimism and possibility.

Spring in Literature and Art

Spring has inspired countless works of art, poetry, and music. From William Wordsworth’s “I Wandered Lonely as a Cloud” to Vivaldi’s “Spring” concerto, the season is often portrayed as a time of beauty and joy.

when does the spring season start this year

When Is Spring in Different Parts of the World?

The timing of spring varies depending on your location. Here’s a quick overview:

Northern Hemisphere: Spring typically begins in March and ends in June. Countries like the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom experience spring during these months.
Southern Hemisphere: Spring occurs from September to December. Countries like Australia, New Zealand, and South Africa enjoy spring during this time.

If you’re wondering when is spring in your area, check the local equinox dates or meteorological calendar.

Frequently Asked Questions About Spring

1. When Does Spring Start This Year?

In 2025, the spring equinox in the northern hemisphere will occur on March 19. In the southern hemisphere, it will take place on September 22.

2. When Does Spring Begin in the Northern Hemisphere?

In the northern hemisphere, spring begins around March 20 (astronomical) or March 1 (meteorological).

3. When Does Spring Begin in the Southern Hemisphere?

In the southern hemisphere, spring starts around September 22 (astronomical) or September 1 (meteorological).

4. How Long Does Spring Last?

Spring typically lasts about three months, ending with the summer solstice in June (northern hemisphere) or December (southern hemisphere).

5. What Are the Spring Months?

In the northern hemisphere, the spring months are March, April, and May. In the southern hemisphere, they are September, October, and November.

Celebrating the Spring Season

Spring is a time for celebration and outdoor activities. Here are some ways to make the most of this vibrant season:

Gardening: Plant flowers, vegetables, or herbs to enjoy the fruits of your labor later in the year.
Outdoor Adventures: Go hiking, biking, or picnicking to soak up the sunshine and fresh air.
Spring Cleaning: Declutter your home and create a fresh, organized space.
Festivals and Events: Attend local spring festivals, such as cherry blossom viewings or Easter celebrations.

The Science Behind Spring

Spring isn’t just a pretty season—it’s also a fascinating scientific phenomenon. Here’s a closer look at what happens during this time:

Earth’s Tilt: The changing seasons are caused by the Earth’s 23.5-degree tilt on its axis. During spring, the hemisphere tilted toward the sun receives more direct sunlight, leading to warmer temperatures.
Plant Growth: Increased sunlight and rainfall trigger plants to grow and bloom. This is why spring is often associated with colorful flowers like tulips and daffodils.
Animal Behavior: Many animals mate and give birth during spring, taking advantage of the abundant food and mild weather.

Conclusion: Embracing the Magic of Spring

Now that you know when does spring start—whether by the equinox or meteorological standards—you’re set to make the most of this lively season! Remember, the official start of spring hinges on your location, so mark your calendar for March (northern hemisphere) or September (southern hemisphere) and watch for nature’s cues: budding trees, chirping birds, and sunlit evenings.

Curious about when spring begins this year? Keep an eye on the ever-shifting equinox dates, which can vary slightly annually. And if you’re wondering when does the spring season start and end where you live, check local climate patterns—they’ll guide your gardening, travel, or outdoor plans better than any generic timeline.

The spring season meaning goes beyond dates. It’s a reminder of resilience and transformation. Whether you’re soaking up the first warm rays or marveling at cherry blossoms, spring invites you to grow alongside it.

So, when is the first day of spring for you? Wherever you are, embrace it. After all, spring’s magic lies not just in its start date but in the joy it brings. Here’s to brighter days ahead—may your spring be as vibrant as the season itself! 🌸