When does spring begin? Here's when the first day of spring falls in 2024

Between the unseasonably warm start to the month and Punxsutawney Phil predicting an early spring in 2024 when he didn’t see his shadow, it might feel like spring in February in Columbus.

But the official astronomical first day of spring – the vernal equinox, when day and night are the same length – has a set date each year that doesn’t change based on early warm weather or rodent predictions.

When is the first day of spring 2024?

The first day of spring 2024 is Tuesday, March 19.

Meteorologists recognize a different date, though. The meteorological first day of spring is the same every year and occurs on March 1.

That’s because meteorological seasons are based on monthly temperatures – March, April and May are the three spring months that precede the three warmest months of the year, which make up meteorological summer.

What is the vernal equinox?

The vernal equinox is one of two days per year when day and night are the same length. Equinox in Greek roughly translates to “equal night.” On these dates, the Earth is tilted neither toward nor away from the sun.

The vernal or spring equinox occurs during March each year. The autumnal equinox, which marks the first day of autumn, occurs in September each year.

How is the vernal equinox celebrated?

Cultures around the world celebrate the vernal equinox. In many cultures, it represents new beginnings, rebirth and growth.

Druids and pagans have celebrated the equinox at Stonehenge for thousands of years. The celebration begins early in the morning at the ancient landmark, where hundreds still gather to celebrate the spring.

Nowruz, the Persian New Year, also coincides with the vernal equinox. The ancient festival dates back to at least the 6^th century BCE. In one tradition, revelers jump over flames at the beginning of Iran’s festival of fire, or Chaharshanbe Soori, held the Wednesday before Nowruz. Jumping over the fire is meant to purify, burn away evil, and bring good for the new year.

Some historians believe current Easter traditions, such as the Easter Bunny might date back to ancient equinox celebrations. The name of the holiday may be linked to the pagan springtime goddess Eostre, whose symbol is the hare.

bagallion@dispatch.com