When is the First Day of Spring?

Had enough of a lackluster winter? The first day of spring is Wednesday.

Wednesday marks the vernal equinox in the northern hemisphere. That means more daylight, warmer temperatures and the rebirth of flora and fauna, according to The Old Farmer’s Almanac.

The word equinox is derived from the Latin words meaning “equal night,” according to the almanac. Days and nights are approximately equal everywhere, and the sun rises and sets due east and west.

The National Weather Service's forecast Wednesday for Alexandria has us a bit chilly, at a high of 48 degrees and a nighttime low of 31 degrees. Temperatures are forecast to hover in the mid to upper 40s for the rest of the week.

Alexandria Forecast and Spring Outlook 

 The National Weather Service's forecast Wednesday for Alexandria has us a bit chilly, at a high of 47 degrees and a nighttime low of 30 degrees. Temperatures are forecast to hover in the mid- to upper 40s for the rest of the week.

The Farmer's Almanac says April will be just slightly above normal for temperatures and slightly below normal for precipitation. 

In fact, this year's relatively mild-but-windy winter has the 2013 Cherry Blossom peak bloom dates earlier than last year. 

• See: 2013 Cherry Blossom Peak and Festival Guide

Gardening and Ice Cream

In addition to the Cherry Blossom Festival and the NCAA Basketball Tournament, a few other signs of spring are around the corner: Passover begins this coming Monday, March 25 . Easter is March 31. 

More light and warmer temperatures in the coming months will bring many people outdoors. Gardeners may want to stop by Greenstreet Gardens at 1721 W. Braddock Road or Home Depot at 400 S. Pickett St. to pick up flowers or other plants to brighten up the indoors or outdoors.

If sweets are your thing, YoFroBerry, which serves frozen yogurt and other treats, is now open at 4653 Duke St. There’s also Sweet Frog at 3219 Duke St.

Don’t forget that many local restaurants offer outdoor dining during the spring and summer. Let us know your favorite spot for outdoor dining in Alexandria in the comments below!