Seasons and calendars

Keeping track of time helps us make sense of our world. Explore how people around the world divide time and mark the changing years

What and when is the autumnal equinox?

When is the autumnal equinox, what date does the autumnal equinox fall on and when does summer end?

Lunar new year dates and animals of the zodiac

Find out more about the new year festival celebrated by people across Asia

Summer and winter solstices explained – how the Sun determines the longest and shortest days of the year

Find out how the position of the Sun determines the longest and shortest days of the year in this special Royal Observatory Greenwich Illuminates extract

When does spring start?

Blooming daffodils, warmer weather or the Sun's position in the sky – how do we define the beginning of spring?

How to make a Hong Bao for Lunar New Year

Create your own hong bao, using origami techniques, to celebrate the Lunar New Year.

How to make a lucky fish poster for Lunar New Year

Create a lucky fish poster to decorate your home for Lunar New Year

How do people celebrate Chinese New Year?

What happens during Chinese New Year? The Newham Chinese Association explain some of the traditions, festivals and customs that take place when Chinese New Year is celebrated

Summer solstice

When - and what - is the summer solstice? Understand the science behind the solstice with the Royal Observatory Greenwich

When is the winter solstice? The shortest day

When is the winter solstice this year? What does it mean? Is it the shortest or longest day?
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