Get ready to enjoy an extra hour of sleep – at least for one day. Daylight saving time (note – no ‘s at the end of saving) officially ends at 2 a.m. Sunday, Nov. 3. At that time, we move our clocks back an hour, pushing more daylight in the morning hours and away from evening. After we “fall back” we will remain on standard time until the second Sunday in March, which falls on March 9, 2025, when we return to DST. The changeover to standard time occurs each year on the first Sunday in November at 2 a.m.

History of Daylight Saving Time

According to the National Institute of Standards and Technology, DST was formally introduced in the U.S. in 1918 as an energy-saving measure designed to put more daylight into times when people were outside. It ended after World War I only to be brought back during World War II. After the war, local jurisdictions were free to determine whether they observed DST and the dates they used. The dates for DST and standard time have changed multiple times throughout its history, including most recently in 2007 when the Energy Policy Act of 2005 extended the length of DST by one month in the interest of reducing energy consumption.

Why Do We Change Clocks?

Moving the clocks forward one hour in the spring grants us more daylight during summer evenings, while moving clocks back one hour in the fall grants us more daylight during winter mornings, according to the Old Farmer’s Almanac.

The Controversy

The time change process has grown increasingly controversial in recent years and there have been efforts – so far all unsuccessful – to do away with the practice. The debate centers around the potential health and economic implications of DST, with proponents arguing that it saves energy and boosts the economy, while opponents contend that it disrupts sleep patterns, increases accidents, and has little effect on energy consumption.

States That Don't Observe DST

Not all states observe DST or changing the clocks. Parts of Arizona not included in the Navajo nation, Hawaii and American territories of American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands do not observe the time change.

The Impact of Daylight Saving Time

The shift to standard time means that sunrise will be about an hour earlier on Nov. 3, and there will be a bit more light early in the morning. But darkness will fall sooner that evening.

Preparing for the Time Change

As we transition to standard time, it's important to adjust your sleep schedule gradually to minimize the effects of the time change. Aim for a consistent bedtime and wake-up time, even on weekends, to help your body adjust to the new time.

Staying Safe in the Dark

As daylight hours decrease, it's crucial to prioritize safety, especially during morning and evening commutes. Make sure your vehicle headlights are functioning properly and wear reflective clothing when walking or jogging outdoors in the dark.

Embracing the Change

While the shift to standard time may bring about a temporary adjustment period, it's also a chance to embrace the cozy evenings and the beauty of the changing seasons. Take advantage of the earlier sunsets to enjoy a warm beverage, read a good book, or spend quality time with loved ones.

The Future of Daylight Saving Time

With the increasing scrutiny of Daylight Saving Time and the potential benefits of adopting a permanent standard time, the future of this annual tradition remains uncertain. As we move into the winter months, it's a time to reflect on the impact of Daylight Saving Time and consider the arguments for and against its continued practice.

What's Next?

As we embrace the return of standard time, it's important to remember that the shift in clocks is a temporary event. In just a few months, we'll be turning our clocks forward again, and the cycle will begin anew. Until then, let's make the most of the extra hour of sleep and enjoy the cozy evenings that await us in the coming months.