Daylight Saving Time 2026
When do the clocks change? All dates and tips for the transition.
March 29, 2026
Summer time begins
2:00 AM to 3:00 AM
Clock 1h forward
October 25, 2026
Winter time begins
3:00 AM to 2:00 AM
Clock 1h back
How to Remember the Direction
Spring/Summer
"Garden furniture goes FORWARD in front of the house"
Clock moves FORWARD
Autumn/Winter
"Garden furniture goes BACK into the house"
Clock moves BACK
Tips for the Transition
Go to bed earlier
One week before the change, go to bed 10-15 minutes earlier each day
Get morning light
Bright light in the morning helps the body adjust
Reduce caffeine
Avoid coffee from midday during the transition phase
Check appointments
Double-check important appointments on the day after the change
Important Deadlines in March 2026
March 31: Tax Return 2024
Without a tax advisor, tax returns for 2024 are due July 31, 2025. With a tax advisor, end of February 2026.
Insurance Cancellations
Many insurances end on December 31. With 3 months notice: cancellation by September 30.
Abolition Still Unclear
The EU Parliament voted in 2019 to abolish the clock change from 2021. However, member states could not agree on whether to keep permanent summer or winter time. Therefore, the clock change continues in 2026.
Frequently Asked Questions
When does summer time start in 2026?
Summer time begins on Sunday, March 29, 2026 at 2:00 AM. Clocks move forward from 2:00 AM to 3:00 AM. The night is one hour shorter.
When does summer time end in 2026?
Summer time ends on Sunday, October 25, 2026 at 3:00 AM. Clocks move back from 3:00 AM to 2:00 AM. The night is one hour longer.
Will the clock change be abolished in 2026?
No. Although the EU Parliament voted for abolition in 2019, member states could not agree. The clock change continues in 2026.
How do I remember which direction?
Memory aid: 'In spring, put garden furniture IN FRONT of the house, in autumn put it BACK.' Or: 'Spring forward, fall back.'
What effects does the clock change have?
Many people report sleep disturbances, fatigue, and concentration problems in the days after the change. The biorhythm needs to adjust.