March 20: when spring is in the United States in 2026

Just three days away, the United States is preparing to welcome a new season. Next Friday, March 20th, marks the exact moment when spring begins in the United States, an astronomical phenomenon that signals the end of winter and ushers in brighter days, rising temperatures, and nature awakening. This spring equinox is not just a date on the calendar but a precise celestial event occurring at 10:46 a.m. Eastern Time.

Spring in the United States: the March equinox at 10:46 a.m.

Although many believe spring always starts on the same day each year, the reality is more complex. The northern hemisphere’s equinox can fall between March 19 and 21, depending on the adjustments of the Gregorian calendar. This year, the astronomical event marking the arrival of spring in the U.S. will occur precisely on March 20 at 10:46 a.m. (Eastern Time), the exact moment the Sun crosses the Earth’s equator.

During this special moment, day and night are nearly equal in length across the entire northern hemisphere. This happens because Earth’s rotational axis is in a neutral position, neither tilted toward nor away from the Sun. As a result, solar radiation is distributed more evenly between both hemispheres, leading to increasingly longer and brighter days.

From the equinox onward, the intensity of sunlight will gradually and steadily increase. This rise will continue until the June solstice, when the northern summer begins and the longest days of the year occur. This progressive increase in light directly impacts temperatures and reactivates natural cycles of flora and fauna throughout the United States.

92 days of spring: from March to summer

Spring in the United States in 2026 will last about three months. It will run from Friday, March 20th, until around June 20 or 21, when the northern summer begins. According to The Old Farmer’s Almanac, this season will span approximately 92 days and some hours.

However, the experience of spring varies significantly by region. While states in the south, like Florida and Texas, will have mild weather from early March, northern states like Maine and New York may still see late cold fronts. This climatic variability is characteristic of seasonal transition and reflects the geographic diversity of the U.S. Many areas will experience a gradual warming, with increasingly warm highs and milder lows.

During these three months, nature undergoes a visible transformation: trees sprout new leaves, flowers bloom in vibrant colors, and animals emerge from their winter dormancy. It is a period of renewal affecting ecosystems and human activities alike, from agriculture to tourism.

Astronomical vs. meteorological spring: two ways to mark the change of season

There are two main methods to define when spring begins in the United States, according to Los Angeles Times. Understanding the difference is key to why some calendars show different dates.

Astronomical spring is based on Earth’s position in its orbit around the Sun. It begins with the March equinox, which can occur on March 19, 20, or 21, and ends around June 20 or 21. This method is used by astronomers and scientific observatories, based on specific celestial phenomena.

Meteorological spring, on the other hand, follows the Gregorian calendar and historical climate patterns. Under this system, spring starts on March 1 and ends on May 31. Although it may seem more arbitrary, this approach is more practical for meteorologists and climatologists, as it groups similar climate periods.

A traditional third indicator marking the end of winter in the U.S. is the Groundhog Day, celebrated every February 2nd. This year, Punxsutawney Phil, the famous Pennsylvania groundhog, projected his shadow during the annual ceremony, predicting winter would last about six more weeks. This forecast places the first signs of seasonal change around March 16, just four days before the official equinox.

Thus, when spring begins in the U.S. depends on which system is referenced, but the meaning remains constant: the resurgence of light, warmth, and life after the cold winter months.