Start of Spring

Start of Spring

The observance of the Beginning of Spring, also known as the Spring Equinox, is an astronomical event that marks the start of the spring season. It holds great cultural significance and has been celebrated for centuries across different civilisations. In essence, the Spring Equinox symbolises new beginnings, renewal, and balance, reflected by the equal length of daytime and nighttime that occurs during this period. As an important time of the year, this event has influence on various aspects such as agriculture, climate, culture, and festivities.

Historically, the Spring Equinox holds particular importance in Sweden, playing a central role within traditional Nordic culture and customs. Being a country that experiences severe winters, the return of longer daylight hours and warmer weather has traditionally been viewed as a time of rebirth and celebration. Thus, the onset of Spring is linked to ancient Norse mythology with festivals devoted to goddesses symbolising fertility and growth. Furthermore, this period marks the transition for Swedes from bunker indoors to engaging in outdoor activities, enabling them to reconnect with nature and highlighting Sweden's deep appreciation for its scenic natural landscape.

The observance of the Beginning of Spring in Sweden is characterised by several rituals and traditions. People commonly celebrate by arranging outdoor nature walks, gardening, or just enjoying the returning warmth and daylight, symbolising a renewal of life and optimism. It's also common to hang colourful feathers on trees, a tradition known as "Påskris", a clear sign that spring has arrived and Easter is approaching. The Spring Equinox in Sweden usually falls on or around March 20, when the sun crosses the celestial equator and day and night are balanced, marking the official start of the spring season in Sweden.

Facts about Spring Begins

• The First Day of Spring is also called the Vernal Equinox.
• On the vernal equinox, the Sun crosses the equator into the Northern Hemisphere. This has the effect of making the days longer in the Northern Hemisphere until the Summer Solstice occurs.
• The Spring Equinox has roots in Pagan beliefs. As a way to ring in the spring, Pagans in Sweden and other parts of the world would participate in feasts and festivals to honor Freya, the Norse goddess of fertility and abundance.
• Spring in Sweden is generally mild with average temperatures ranging from 5°C (41°F) to 15°C (59°F) at the beginning of the season, reaching up to 20°C (68°F) towards the end. Rainfall is generally low, but may increase towards the end of spring.

In the News and Trending in Sweden for Start of Spring

Top things to do in Sweden for the beginning of Spring

• Visit a nursery and purchase seeds or plants.
• Plan your flower beds and garden.
• Visit Kungsträdgården: Kungsträdgården park in central Stockholm is a prime location to witness the beginning of spring. The park is filled with cherry blossom trees that create stunning displays of pink petals in late March or early April.
• Host Easter/Family Get-Togethers: Easter often marks the beginning of spring and is celebrated with family get-togethers. Swedes enjoy meals with traditional dishes like pickled herring, cured salmon, and potatoes. Kids dress up as witches and go door-to-door, similar to American Halloween traditions, exchanging painted eggs for sweets.