Spring will officially arrive in Quebec on March 20, 2026, at 10:45 AM, coinciding with the equinox. Despite this seasonal shift, residents should prepare for cooler temperatures as they transition into spring. The proverb, “in April, don’t take off a thread,” remains relevant this year.
Understanding the Equinox
An equinox marks a unique moment in the year when day and night are approximately equal in length. There are two equinoxes annually, with one occurring in spring and another in autumn. The spring equinox indicates the start of spring while the autumn equinox marks the beginning of fall.
The Science Behind the Equinox
Olivier Hernandez, director of the Montreal Planetarium, explains that during an equinox, sunlight strikes the Earth perpendicularly in both the Northern and Southern Hemispheres. On this day, day and night both last about 12 hours. However, due to light refraction, the durations may slightly differ on the actual date of the equinox.
The phenomenon that synchronizes day and night occurs three days later and is referred to as “equilux.” Events held during equinoxes are simultaneous globally, although local times may vary.
Spring Weather Expectations
With the arrival of spring, residents in Quebec can still expect chilly conditions throughout March and part of April. MétéoMédia’s chief meteorologist, André Monette, notes that despite average seasonal temperatures, many days may remain colder than expected.
It’s crucial to recognize that the equinox does not signify the beginning of “meteorological spring.” The 20th of March marks only the astronomical onset of spring, while meteorological spring begins with the first day of March. The summer months—June, July, and August—are based on statistical temperature averages.
Daylight Duration and Seasonal Changes
As March progresses, daylight hours will gradually increase until the summer solstice on June 21. At that time, the day will be the longest of the year. Around March 20, residents can expect to gain about three to four minutes of additional daylight each day, with gradual changes leading into summer.
Global Celebrations for the Equinox
The equinox is marked by various cultural celebrations worldwide. Notable festivities include:
- Norouz: Celebrated by Persian communities, marking the Persian New Year with family gatherings and traditional dances.
- Chichén Itzá: The Mayan pyramid in Mexico witnesses shadow play during equinoxes, attracting tourists to observe the phenomenon.
- Holi: The Hindu festival of colors celebrating the end of winter occurred on March 4 this year.
- Easter: Although not directly related to spring, Easter celebrations incorporate themes of rejuvenation and joy as warmer days approach.
As residents of Quebec prepare for spring, they can enjoy the promise of longer days while participating in significant cultural celebrations that highlight the transition into a new season.
