Spring equinox 2026: Time, meaning, and the science behind the turning of the seasons

Friday morning, March 20, marks the triumphant return of spring in the Northern Hemisphere.

Spring is a glorious, warm season after the harsh cold of winter—filled with light and more sun-induced vitamin D.

Friday, March 20, 2026 (at exactly 10:46 a.m. ET), marks both its triumphant return in the Northern Hemisphere and the spring equinox. So, get ready for longer days, warmer weather, and flower blooms that may cause sneezing.

Let’s take a deeper look at the science behind seasons and what exactly an equinox is.