March Equinox

March 20, Thursday

March Equinox
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The March Equinox is an astronomical phenomenon that occurs annually on March 19, 20, or 21. On this day, the length of day and night is approximately equal all over the world. It marks the change of seasons: in the Northern Hemisphere, astronomical spring begins, while in the Southern Hemisphere, autumn starts.

Astronomical significance
The March Equinox occurs when the Sun crosses the celestial equator, moving from south to north. At this moment, sunlight falls almost perpendicularly on the Earth's surface at the equator, resulting in nearly equal day and night lengths.

Date of the March Equinox
The exact date may vary due to leap years and the specifics of Earth's orbit. It usually falls on March 20 but can occasionally occur on March 19 or 21.

Traditions and celebrations
In many cultures, the March Equinox symbolizes renewal, the beginning of a new life cycle, and a time of balance. It is associated with numerous traditional festivals:
– Nowruz – the Persian New Year, celebrated in Iran, Afghanistan, Central Asia, and the Caucasus
– Ostara – a spring equinox festival in neopagan traditions
– Holi – the Indian festival of colors, marking the arrival of spring
– Shunbun no Hi – the spring equinox day in Japan, also considered a Buddhist celebration

How the March Equinox is celebrated
– Performing rituals related to purification, renewal, and gratitude to nature
– Visiting sacred sites such as Stonehenge or Chichén Itzá, where ancient civilizations aligned structures with the Sun
– Planting seeds and growing plants as a symbol of nature’s awakening
– Gathering with family and friends to celebrate the arrival of spring or autumn, depending on the hemisphere

The March Equinox reminds us of nature’s harmony, the balance of life, and the cyclical nature of time, bringing people around the world together to celebrate this important astronomical event.

March Equinox

March Equinox – days left: 2. Create Countdown to Event

March Equinox in other years

March Equinox in other countries

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