On Sunday, March 9, 2025, Canadians will once again adjust their clocks as daylight saving time begins, marking the start of longer days and shorter nights.
At precisely 2 a.m., clocks will jump forward to 3 a.m., leading many to lose an hour of precious sleep. While the yearly ritual of changing clocks may seem straightforward, it sparks considerable debate each season about its necessity. Some argue for the practice's benefits, aimed at maximizing daylight hours, encouraging outdoor activities, and even saving energy. Others begin to question its relevance, particularly with modern technological conveniences like smartphones and smart home devices automatically adjusting time.
Canada has been observing daylight saving time since 1918, initially introduced during the First World War. The rationale back then involved conserving energy by reducing the need for electric light during waking hours. Historical records indicate the first implementation of this practice occurred much earlier, with Port Arthur—now Thunder Bay—pioneering the change as early as July 1, 1908.
Still, debates persist over continuing the time change. For example, Ontario passed legislation to stop observing daylight saving time back in 2020, including conditions based on movements from neighboring jurisdictions, Quebec and New York, to abolish the custom simultaneously. This has left many residents wondering about the fate of the twice-yearly clock adjustments.
Regions such as Saskatchewan and Yukon, alongside certain communities within northwestern Ontario, have opted out of the time change altogether. This decision has contributed to the confusion for travelers and businesses working across provincial lines.
Craig Potter, custodian of the historic clock on Citadel Hill in Halifax, holds the duty of winding the timepiece, which has been marking the time since 1803. Twice each year, he takes on the elevation climb to maintain the old clock, reminding the city about the importance of tradition.
Alberta residents faced similar discussions during the 2021 referendum, where just over half of the voting public expressed the desire to continue the change. This reflects the complex views Canadians hold on daylight saving time—historical necessity versus modern practicality.
Critics argue about not just the inconvenience of losing sleep but potential negative health impacts. Research has indicated there's been statistical evidence linking the time shift to spikes in heart attacks, accidents, and even strokes shortly after the clock change.
Regardless of individual perspectives, the transition remains, especially as Canada aligns its clock changes with the United States, where the time change also happens on the same schedule. Supporters of daylight saving time point to its value for brightening up late afternoons, providing more time for recreational activities.
The larger discussion continues about whether to maintain or abandon this long-standing custom. Advocates are making their voices heard across the country, citing studies and historical energy reports. Meanwhile, provinces with their own decisions, like Saskatchewan and Yukon, prepare for the yearly shift without joining the rest. This discourse captures the essence of Canadian identity, balancing tradition with the demands of modern life.
With the arrival of daylight saving time on March 9, Canadians will again take part in adjusting their clocks, honoring both their rituals and what this means for lifestyle and well-being. For many, it serves as both the herald of spring and as the beginning of conversations surrounding daylight saving time.
So come Sunday, as the sun rises unhurriedly over Canada, revelers of longer days must reconcile the lost sleep with the promise of longer evenings. One hour lost isn’t just about time — it’s the rhythm of life and society adapting once again to the shifting seasons.