When do the clocks go back in 2026?
Clocks will move back one hour at 2 a.m. local time on Sunday, November 1, 2026 [1], [2]. This shift marks the return to standard time, providing an extra hour of sleep [1], [2].
What happened
- Earlier
Daylight saving time began at 2 a.m. on Sunday, March 8, 2026 [3].
- Oct 31, 2026
Halloween falls on a Saturday [3].
- Nov 1, 2026, 02:00 UTC
Clocks move back one hour to 1 a.m. as daylight saving time ends [1], [2].
- Mar 14, 2027, 02:00 UTC
Clocks will move forward one hour to begin daylight saving time for 2027 [2].
What you need to know
Digital devices like computers and smartphones usually update automatically [2].
Analog clocks and some household appliances must be changed manually [2].
The change results in more morning light but earlier sunsets [1].
This is the earliest possible date in November for the time change to occur [3].
It is not confirmed if the U.S. Senate will pass the Sunshine Protection Act to end these changes, as the legislation has stalled [1].
Background
Daylight saving time is designed to keep daylight hours aligned with when people are most active and to save energy during warmer months [2]. In the U.S., it typically starts the second Sunday in March and ends the first Sunday in November [1].
There is ongoing political debate regarding the practice. While some lawmakers and public polls support making daylight saving time permanent, others cite safety concerns, such as children waiting for school buses in the dark during winter mornings [1].
Questions people ask
What is the correct term for the time change?
The correct term is 'Daylight Saving Time' without an 's' at the end [2].
Why is 2026 unique for the clock change?
Halloween falls on a Saturday and the clocks go back the following morning, which will not happen again until 2037 [3].
Where this came from
[1] usatoday.com
Is it time to set your clock back this weekend? What to know
Preview image from usatoday.com
[2] freep.com
Michigan clocks fall back soon for DST. What you need to know
Preview image from freep.com
[3] today.com
Halloween and Daylight Saving Time Align in 2026: What to Know
Preview image from today.com
Found through Google Trends and drafted with AI from at least two cited sources. Published automatically after passing our automated checks for sources, wording and safety. It may not have been reviewed by a person yet. Report a correction.