March Welcomes the Vernal Equinox
/“Spring is nature’s way of saying, “Let’s party!””
As March arrives, we eagerly anticipate the upcoming Vernal Equinox on Tuesday, March 20, 2025. The promise of warmer, sunnier days fills the air, as it does every year at this time. The classic saying, "If March comes in like a lion, it will go out like a lamb," continues to ring true, heightening our excitement for the changing weather.
This year, let's embrace the diverse Vernal Equinox traditions from around the world. Each one brings its own special meaning and charm, offering a beautiful chance to learn, appreciate, and celebrate our global differences. As we come together to celebrate this momentous occasion, let’s create lasting memories with our loved ones, marking the arrival of the Vernal Equinox and the fresh beginnings it brings.
USA: Visit a Local Farm
The Bay Area is surrounded by lush farms, making Harvest Time an especially exciting season. Farms are brimming with a variety of fresh, delicious treats, offering a true taste of the season’s bounty. Cheesavores can indulge in a journey along the Cheese Trail, or explore hidden farming gems along the Sonoma County Farm Trails. It’s the perfect time to savor the best local flavors!
Christianity: Easter
Easter is all about hope, new life, and, let’s be honest, watching a bunch of kids go full-speed ahead in search of those elusive Easter eggs! It’s a spring tradition we can all get behind. So, if you’re wondering how to make this Easter extra memorable, here are some fun ways to celebrate with your family around the Bay Area—because who doesn’t love a good egg hunt?
Pagan: Make a Miniature Greenhouse
Celebrate the Pagan rituals of Ostara by channeling your inner plant parent and kickstarting your summer garden! It’s time to get those seedlings growing—because nothing says "spring" like talking to your plants like they’re your new best friends. Here are some sneaky (and slightly crafty) ways to create your own greenhouse, park it in a sunny spot, and watch your garden go from "meh" to "wow!" in no time.
Nowruz: A Persian New Year Celebration of Spring
Persian New Year is almost here, right on the heels of the vernal equinox, and the Bay Area is ready to celebrate with some seriously festive events. From food to music to dancing, here are a couple of family-friendly happenings where you can jump in and join the fun. Bring your dancing shoes... or at least some good snack-handling skills!
Purim: Judaism
Get ready for chaos—because anything goes on Purim! Throw on your wildest costume, belt out some tunes, snack like there’s no tomorrow, and maybe even have a drink or two. It’s the one holiday where being ridiculous is not only encouraged, it’s required!
Japan: Kayak
Higan (彼岸) is a Buddhist holiday that celebrates the changing of seasons and honors the memories of deceased family members. The name “Higan” means "crossing over to the other shore," symbolizing the journey from the world of the living to the realm of those who have passed. During this time, people offer flowers, sweets, and prayers. So, grab a metaphorical kayak, paddle to the other side, and leave a gift or prayer to remember a loved one—just don’t forget to pack a snack for the journey!
Visit Your Local Famers Markets
Grab your totes and hop out the door like it's a race to the farmers market! A whole bounty of spring produce is waiting, ready to help you whip up tasty dishes that even the pickiest kids won’t be able to resist. Get ready for some veggie victories!
India: Holi
Holi is the Hindu festival of love… and color explosions! Join the parade of people who are basically having a full-on, colorful frolic, turning into walking rainbows. Just make sure to wear something you don’t mind looking like a paint palette by the end of it!
Keep a Nature Journal
Take a good look around! What screams "spring" in your neck of the woods? Grab your nature journal, or if you're feeling extra, just scribble your observations on a napkin—spring has arrived, and it’s time to document the chaos of flowers, bees, and whatever else is popping up!
World Storytelling Day is
March 20
Celebrate the ancient art of storytelling by sharing your family's most legendary tales, childhood mishaps, and local legends. Dive into classic stories, dramatic sagas, spooky tales, or those happy moments that somehow turn into epics. Every story is a masterpiece—whether it’s about Aunt Karen's wild dancing or the time you got lost in the grocery store for three hours. Tell it all!
Mexico: Chichén Itzá
One of the most famous ancient spring equinox celebrations happens at the Mayan pyramid of Chichén Itzá in Mexico. As the Sun's light hits the pyramid just right, it creates the illusion of a giant snake slithering down the steps—pretty wild, right? The Mayans called this magical moment "the return of the Sun serpent," marking the start of the new season.
England: Watch a Sunrise and Sunset
Stonehenge may be famous for its sunrise and sunset alignments, but here in the Bay Area, we’ve got our own magical spots to catch the perfect sun moment. People flock to these locations to see the sky do its thing, hoping for that Instagram-worthy shot. So, no matter where you are in the Bay, grab your coffee, get out there for Mother Natures daily show!
