On March 1, it is often considered the first spring day in Russia, but not necessarily mark the astronomical beginning of the season. This date is known as "weather spring", and is based on average temperature and climatic conditions.
So, although March 1 it does not mark the exact astronomical beginning of spring, it has become a symbolic date in Russia that indicates the end of winter and the beginning of a new season.
In addition, March 1 is an ancient traditional party in Russia called "Maslenitsa" or "butter week". This party is a one-week celebration before the beginning of the fast Lent in the Eastern Orthodox Church and is often associated with the arrival of spring and the renewal of nature.
I did not know this, so I investigated (without hesitation you were right) why March 1 was the beginning of spring for you all.
Congratulations, good celebrations and a very good beginning of spring!
Of course, really beautiful autumn shots.
Glad to see you and thank you for your kind words!
In Russia, the whole year is divided into 4 seasons (as everywhere else))
Three months for each season. Spring is March, April and May. Therefore, March 1 is formally considered the beginning of spring.
In ancient times in Russia, the beginning of spring and even the new year was considered the day of the spring solstice on March 22-23. This is the real day of Maslenitsa among the Slavs. On this day, large round pancakes are baked as a symbol of the sun. And this date was permanent.
The Maslenitsa you wrote about is tied to the lunar calendar, it is a Christian Maslenitsa. This date, like the date of Easter, is not constant, it depends on the cycles of the moon.
Very nice and interesting.