IIt’s that time of year again—Daylight Saving Time (DST) is returning to Alberta, and you’re probably wondering how to get ready for the time change. Whether you love the extra daylight in the evening or hate losing an hour of sleep, DST impacts everyone. Just like adjusting to a new schedule, sometimes life calls for a fresh start—whether it’s clearing out clutter or finally saying goodbye to that old car taking up space. At Alberta Cash for Cars, we make it easy to turn your unwanted vehicle into instant cash, just like DST gives us a little extra daylight to work with. So, let’s talk about what’s going on and why it’s important to you!
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What is Daylight Saving Time, and Why Do We Do It?
First off, a little history lesson: Daylight Saving Time was first proposed in 1895 by George Vernon Hudson, a New Zealand scientist who wanted to make better use of daylight hours in the summer. The idea is simple—by moving the clocks forward one hour in the spring, people get more sunlight in the evening, making outdoor activities, work, and travel more convenient.
In Alberta, DST follows a regular schedule:
- Starts: The second Sunday in March at 2 a.m., when clocks move forward by one hour.
- Ends: The first Sunday in November, when we “fall back” one hour to return to Standard Time.
For 2025, DST begins on Sunday, March 9th—so don’t forget to set your clocks forward an hour before going to bed!
Why Do We Love (or Loathe) Daylight Saving Time Changes?
The Perks of Having More Daylight in the Evening
More Time for Outdoor Fun
One of the best parts about DST? More daylight in the evening! Whether you enjoy evening walks, biking, or just relaxing outdoors, longer days mean more time to enjoy the outdoors after work or school.
It’s Good for Business
Retail stores, restaurants, and outdoor attractions see an increase in business when the sun stays out longer. Tourist hotspots in Alberta, like Banff and Jasper, benefit from extended daylight hours as visitors spend more time exploring and shopping.
It Might Improve Your Mood
More sunlight means more vitamin D, which can boost energy and improve overall well-being. People tend to be happier and more active during DST, as it encourages outdoor activities and socializing.
Safer Evening Commutes
Since DST moves an hour of daylight into the evening, drivers have better visibility during rush hour, reducing accidents and making roads safer.
The Downsides of DST
Losing an Hour of Sleep
Let’s be real—losing an hour of sleep when we “spring forward” can be brutal. It takes a few days to adjust, and some people experience fatigue, irritability, or trouble concentrating. If you struggle with the time change, try gradually shifting your bedtime earlier in the days leading up to DST.
More Darkness in the Mornings
While evenings get brighter, the trade-off is darker mornings—which isn’t ideal for early risers. Waking up in the dark can feel disorienting, especially for school kids and morning commuters.
Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)
The return to Standard Time in November brings shorter daylight hours, which can affect mood and energy levels. Some people experience Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), a form of depression triggered by reduced exposure to sunlight.
Energy Use Debate
DST was originally introduced to save energy, but modern research suggests energy savings are minimal. While less artificial lighting is needed in the evenings, homes often use more heating in the darker mornings.
Why Does Alberta Still Use Daylight Saving Time?
Some places, like Saskatchewan, don’t observe DST at all. Others have debated whether to eliminate the time change altogether and stick with Standard Time year-round.
In recent years, Alberta has considered making this switch. Some politicians and experts argue that changing the clocks twice a year is outdated, while others believe keeping DST helps businesses and outdoor activities thrive. The Daily Hive reports that Alberta’s government has discussed the possibility of ending DST, but no official decision has been made yet.
What to Expect for 2025
For 2025, DST in Alberta will begin on March 9th at 2 a.m. That means you’ll need to set your clocks forward by one hour before bed on Saturday night. Most smartphones, computers, and smart devices will update automatically, but don’t forget to check your microwave, car dashboard, and wall clocks—because those never seem to update on their own!
Could Alberta Get Rid of Daylight Saving Time?
It’s possible. The conversation around scrapping DST has been growing in recent years, with many Albertans split on the issue. Some enjoy the extra daylight in the summer, while others find the time change unnecessary and disruptive.
For now, though, we’ll keep the spring forward and fall back routine. Whether you love it or hate it, DST is here to stay—at least for 2025.
Final Thoughts: How to Prepare for the Time Change
- Set your clocks forward before bed on Saturday, March 8, 2025.
- Ease into the change by going to bed 15-30 minutes earlier in the days leading up to DST.
- Enjoy the extra sunlight! Make plans to take advantage of the longer evenings.
Be patient with yourself—your body will adjust in a few days.
So, whether you’re a DST supporter or someone who dreads the time shift, at least we can all agree on one thing: springing forward means summer is just around the corner!
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