When Do The Four Seasons Start And End -
The start and end dates of the four seasons depend on whether you use the astronomical or meteorological calendar. Astronomically, seasons are marked by the Earth's position relative to the sun (solstices and equinoxes), while meteorologists use fixed three-month blocks based on temperature cycles. Seasonal Dates for 2026 Meteorological Dates Astronomical Dates (Northern Hemisphere) Spring March 1 – May 31 March 20 – June 20 Summer June 1 – August 31 June 21 – September 22 Autumn September 1 – November 30 September 23 – December 20 Winter December 1 – February 28 December 21 – March 19 (2027)
Starts December 21 (Winter Solstice) and ends March 19, 2027. The Old Farmer’s Almanac 2. Meteorological Seasons (Temperature Cycles) when do the four seasons start and end
- False (in the Northern Hemisphere). Earth is actually closest to the sun (perihelion) in early January. The seasons are caused by the tilt of the axis, not distance. Winter is cold because the sun's rays hit at a lower angle for fewer hours.
Most people are familiar with the astronomical seasons. These are defined by the Earth's position relative to the sun. Because the Earth is tilted on its axis at roughly 23.5 degrees, different parts of the planet receive varying amounts of sunlight throughout the year. The start and end dates of the four
🍂 Autumn (Autumnal Equinox)
Autumn begins when the Sun crosses the celestial equator moving south. False (in the Northern Hemisphere)
- Begins: September 22nd or 23rd (Vernal Equinox)
- Ends: December 21st or 22nd
🌱 Equinox = roughly equal day & night.