Celebrate Spring 2013 in Annapolis

Despite a few lingering snowflakes early Monday morning, Wednesday marks the first official day of spring.

The vernal equinox, or spring equinox, is one of two times a year when we have nearly equal parts day and night, according to Almanac.com. March 20 marks the 2013 spring equinox and with it brings the promise of warmer days and more hours of sunshine.

Annapolis restaurants—located from the mall to the Towne Centre and, of course, downtown—are quick to embrace the slightest hint of warm weather by opening outdoor dining areas.

Other signs of spring around town: Rita’s on Bay Ridge recently opened for the season and is offering free Italian ice on Wednesday. The fields at Annapolis High are full of teams preparing for their first games this week.

Plus, Saturday is the third annual Annapolis Oyster Roast and Sock Burning —the unofficial welcome to spring for locals.

Rick Dove responded to a recent request on Annapolis Patch's Facebook page to share spring photos—he sent us a photo of a robin, his favorite spring bird.

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TELL US: What is your favorite place for dining outside in Annapolis? What spring traditions do you have? Leave a comment to let us know.