This is based on the Earth's position relative to the sun. It finishes at the vernal equinox , which in 2026 occurs on March 20 at approximately 2:46 PM PDT. At this exact moment, the sun passes directly over the equator, making day and night nearly equal in length.
This marks the official end of astronomical winter.
Astronomical seasons are defined by the Earth's physical position in its orbit and the tilt of its axis.
| Definition | End Date (Northern Hemisphere) | Based On | | :--- | :--- | :--- | | | March 19-21 (Vernal Equinox) | Earth's orbit & tilt | | Meteorological | February 28 / 29 | Annual temperature cycle | | Practical (Snow/Frost) | Varies by location (March to May) | Local climate patterns |
Scientists and calendars use two distinct methods to determine when a season officially ends:
It aligns with the calendar months, allowing for clean, consistent record-keeping. The Astronomical Finish
This is based on the Earth's position relative to the sun. It finishes at the vernal equinox , which in 2026 occurs on March 20 at approximately 2:46 PM PDT. At this exact moment, the sun passes directly over the equator, making day and night nearly equal in length.
This marks the official end of astronomical winter. when winter finish
Astronomical seasons are defined by the Earth's physical position in its orbit and the tilt of its axis. This is based on the Earth's position relative to the sun
| Definition | End Date (Northern Hemisphere) | Based On | | :--- | :--- | :--- | | | March 19-21 (Vernal Equinox) | Earth's orbit & tilt | | Meteorological | February 28 / 29 | Annual temperature cycle | | Practical (Snow/Frost) | Varies by location (March to May) | Local climate patterns | This marks the official end of astronomical winter
Scientists and calendars use two distinct methods to determine when a season officially ends:
It aligns with the calendar months, allowing for clean, consistent record-keeping. The Astronomical Finish