Home & Garden
When is the First Day of Spring?
Goodbye, winter blues. Despite Monday morning's snow showers, spring is around the corner.
Had enough of a lackluster winter?
Both Punxsutawney Phil and Potomac Phil predicted spring would come early this year, but with snow showers Monday morning across Arlington, a lot of residents are not impressed with our furry friends' predictions.
Fortunately, the first day of spring is this Wednesday, March 20.
Find out what's happening in Arlingtonwith free, real-time updates from Patch.
Wednesday marks the vernal equinox in the northern hemisphere. That means more daylight, warmer temperatures and the rebirth of flora and fauna, according to The Old Farmer’s Almanac.
The word equinox is derived from the Latin words meaning “equal night,” according to the almanac. Days and nights are approximately equal, and the sun rises and sets due east and west.
Find out what's happening in Arlingtonwith free, real-time updates from Patch.
And no, those tales about egg-balancing and broom standing are not true.
Arlington Forecast, Spring Weather Outlook
The National Weather Service's forecast Wednesday for Arlington has us a bit chilly, at a high of 47 degrees and a nighttime low of 30 degrees. Temperatures are forecast to hover in the mid- to upper 40s for the rest of the week.
The Farmer's Almanac says April will be just slightly above normal for temperatures and slightly below normal for precipitation.
In fact, this year's relatively mild-but-windy winter has the 2013 Cherry Blossom peak bloom dates earlier than last year.
- See: 2013 Cherry Blossom Peak and Festival Guide
Outdoor Eating in Arlington and More!
In addition to the Cherry Blossom Festival in DC, March Madness and the NCAA tournament starts this week.
Other signs of spring: Passover begins this coming Monday, March 25 . Easter is March 31.
Good news for businesses, too: More light and warmer temperatures in the coming months will bring many people outdoors to shop and eat.
Patch's own 2012 Readers' Choice nominees for Best Outdoor Dining included: Arlington Rooftop Bar & Grill, Circa 27 and Piola. You may also check out Willow or Eventide.
Do you have a favorite thing about spring, or a favorite spot for outdoor dining in Arlington? Tell us in the comments below!
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