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Daylight saving time 2026: Set clocks forward on March 8
Summary
Daylight saving time in Canada begins on March 8, 2026 at 2 a.m., when clocks move ahead to 3 a.m.; the article notes some regions do not observe DST and many devices adjust automatically.
Content
Daylight saving time begins in Canada on March 8, 2026, when clocks move from 2 a.m. to 3 a.m. The article notes that Canadians in most time zones are advised to set manual devices ahead an hour before bed on March 7, while many digital and connected devices will likely adjust automatically. Yukon, most of Saskatchewan and parts of Quebec, Ontario and British Columbia remain on standard time year‑round. The practice has a long history and continues to prompt discussion among researchers and lawmakers.
Key details:
- Date and time: DST starts March 8, 2026 at 2 a.m., when clocks advance to 3 a.m.
- Devices and timing: The article notes manual clocks may need to be set ahead the night before, while many smartphones and smartwatches adjust automatically.
- Regions not observing DST: Yukon, most of Saskatchewan and some areas of Quebec, Ontario and B.C. stay on standard time all year.
- Duration: Daylight saving time covers an eight‑month period between March and November for most of the country.
- Health research: Studies and experts cited in the article report that the spring transition can disrupt sleep regulation and has been associated in some studies with small increases in cardiovascular events such as heart attack and stroke following the switch.
- Policy debate: A federal MP has introduced a private member's bill to seek a single, permanent time, and several provinces have considered or advanced related measures; jurisdictional coordination is noted as a factor in broader change.
Summary:
The March 8 clock change will advance time by one hour and is expected to shorten sleep for many people in affected regions, while some areas remain on standard time year‑round. Researchers and clinicians cited in the article report links between the biannual shifts and sleep disruption and possible short‑term cardiovascular impacts, and some politicians have proposed measures to adopt a single permanent time. Undetermined at this time.
