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Summer time begins: Why are we moving the clocks earlier this year than last year?
This year, daylight saving time begins a little earlier than last year, which causes confusion for many. But the reason is not a change in rules, but simply a calendar game.
TL;DR
- Daylight saving time begins on Sunday, March 29, 2026, at 2 AM, moving clocks forward one hour.
- The earlier start this year compared to 2025 is due to the EU rule of changing clocks on the last Sunday in March, with the specific date varying annually.
- The original purpose of clock changes, dating back to WWI and popularized in the 1970s, was energy saving through better use of daylight, but modern research suggests minimal savings.
- The European Parliament voted to end seasonal clock changes in 2019, but a lack of agreement among member states on permanent time (summer or winter) has stalled the process.
- Disruptions from the time change can affect sleep, leading to fatigue, headaches, and concentration problems, with a potential slight increase in traffic accidents.
- Tips to adjust include going to bed earlier, seeking natural light upon waking, avoiding heavy meals and caffeine in the evening, skipping afternoon naps, and engaging in light physical activity.