The vernal equinox marks the start of spring in the Northern Hemisphere — so does that mean this is the only day out of the year when you’ll be able to balance an egg? Or not see your own shadow?

The spring equinox always falls on March 20 or 21 (and occasionally on March 19 in a leap year). In 2025, the big day is Thursday, March 20.

In 2025, the spring equinox will arrive exactly at 9:01 UTC (Coordinated Universal Time) on Thursday, March 20, according to EarthSky. Here’s how UTC translates to your time.

This year's first day of spring in the Northern Hemisphere occurs precisely at 5:01 a.m. EST on March 20, according to NASA. The date and time of the equinox varies slightly from year to year.

The Northern Hemisphere’s spring — or vernal — equinox can land between March 19 and 21, depending on the year. Its fall – or autumnal — equinox can land between Sept. 21 and 24.

The Northern Hemisphere’s spring — or vernal — equinox can land between March 19 and 21, depending on the year. Its fall – or autumnal — equinox can land between Sept. 21 and 24.

The Northern Hemisphere’s spring — or vernal — equinox can land between March 19 and 21, depending on the year. Its fall – or autumnal — equinox can land between Sept. 21 and 24.

The Northern Hemisphere’s spring — or vernal — equinox can land between March 19 and 21, depending on the year. Its fall – or autumnal — equinox can land between Sept. 21 and 24.

The Northern Hemisphere’s spring — or vernal — equinox can land between March 19 and 21, depending on the year. Its fall – or autumnal — equinox can land between Sept. 21 and 24.

The Northern Hemisphere’s spring — or vernal — equinox can land between March 19 and 21, depending on the year. Its fall – or autumnal — equinox can land between Sept. 21 and 24.

The Northern Hemisphere’s spring — or vernal — equinox can land between March 19 and 21, depending on the year. Its fall – or autumnal — equinox can land between Sept. 21 and 24.