Tired of leaving work in the dark? If you enjoy longer daylight hours, you’re in luck—Daylight Saving Time (DST) is just around the corner! This annual time shift is set to begin on Sunday, March 9, 2025, giving millions of Americans an extra hour of evening sunlight.
Daylight Saving Time has been a long-standing practice in the U.S., aimed at maximizing daylight during the warmer months. However, the debate over whether to keep or scrap it continues. As we prepare for the next time change, here’s what you need to know.
When Does Daylight Saving Time Start in 2025?
Mark your calendars! Daylight Saving Time officially begins on Sunday, March 9, 2025, at 2:00 a.m. local time. At that moment, clocks will “spring forward” one hour to 3:00 a.m., resulting in a lost hour of sleep but extended daylight in the evenings.
Most modern devices, such as smartphones and computers, will automatically adjust to the new time. However, some appliances, such as microwaves, traditional alarm clocks, and car radios, may need to be changed manually.
What Happens When We Change the Clocks?
The shift to Daylight Saving Time means longer daylight in the evenings but darker mornings. As a result, sunrise and sunset will occur an hour later than the previous day. This change remains in effect until the first Sunday of November when clocks “fall back” an hour.
For those who struggle with adjusting their sleep schedule, it may take a few days to get used to the time change. Experts recommend gradually shifting bedtime in the days leading up to the transition to make it easier.
Why Do We Have Daylight Saving Time?
The idea of Daylight Saving Time dates back centuries. Still, modern implementation began during World War I as a way to conserve energy. Germany and Austria were the first to adopt DST in 1916, followed by the U.S. in 1918.
Many credit Benjamin Franklin with the concept, as he humorously suggested adjusting wake-up times in a 1784 letter. However, the practice as we know it today was formalized much later to align working hours with natural daylight and reduce energy consumption.
Will Daylight Saving Time Ever Be Permanent?
Over the years, many have questioned the effectiveness of DST, arguing that it disrupts sleep patterns and does not significantly save energy. In 2022, the Sunshine Protection Act—a bill aiming to make DST permanent—was approved by the U.S. Senate but ultimately stalled in the House of Representatives.
Former President Donald Trump voiced his opinion on the issue, stating that the Republican Party would work to eliminate Daylight Saving Time. While some states have pushed for permanent standard time, DST remains in place for now.
Who Doesn’t Observe Daylight Saving Time?
Not everyone observes Daylight Saving Time. Hawaii and most of Arizona, along with U.S. territories such as Puerto Rico, Guam, American Samoa, and the U.S. Virgin Islands, do not observe the time change.
For those living in these regions, there’s no need to adjust clocks—business and daily routines continue as usual.
When Does Winter End? The First Day of Spring 2025
As we move toward longer days and warmer weather, many are wondering: When does winter officially end?
The first day of spring in 2025 is Thursday, March 20. This marks the spring equinox when day and night are approximately equal in length. After that, daylight hours will continue to increase as summer approaches.
When Are the Longest and Shortest Days of 2025?
- The longest day of the year (Summer Solstice) occurs on Friday, June 20, 2025, when Central Texas will experience approximately 14 hours of daylight.
- The shortest day of the year (Winter Solstice) falls on Sunday, December 21, 2025, when locations such as Austin, Texas, will see just over 10 hours of daylight.
These solstices occur due to Earth’s axial tilt, which determines how much sunlight different parts of the world receive throughout the year.
Final Thoughts
Daylight Saving Time remains a widely followed yet controversial practice. While it provides longer daylight in the evenings, many question its relevance in today’s modern society. As 2025’s DST start date approaches, be prepared to adjust your clocks, adapt your routine, and enjoy those extra evening hours of sunlight!