Daylight Saving Time 2025: Don’t Forget to Set Your Clocks Back This Weekend
Canadians will “fall back” this weekend as Daylight Saving Time (DST) comes to an end. The official transition occurs at 2 a.m. on November 2, 2025, when clocks shift back one hour. This change grants residents an extra hour of sleep but also introduces darker evenings across Toronto and much of the country.
Understanding Daylight Saving Time in Canada
Daylight Saving Time was first adopted in Canada during World War I, aiming to conserve energy by maximizing daylight hours. Although the initial purpose has diminished, the tradition continues. While several provinces have debated ending the biannual clock change, the majority, including Ontario, maintain the practice.
Provinces Observing DST
- Ontario
- British Columbia
- Most of Canada
Provinces Not Observing DST
- Saskatchewan
- Parts of British Columbia
- Parts of Quebec
Implications of the Time Change
While the extra sleep is appreciated, experts warn of several impacts that can arise from changing the clocks:
- Sleep Disruption: A one-hour shift can disturb circadian rhythms, leading to grogginess and reduced focus.
- Road Safety: Research indicates a temporary increase in accidents after the time change due to adjusting to darker conditions.
- Mental Health: Shorter daylight hours in the late afternoon may contribute to seasonal affective disorder (SAD).
- Workplace Productivity: Many employers note a decline in employee efficiency following the time change.
Future Considerations
In recent years, some provinces like Ontario and British Columbia have looked into transitioning permanently to either Daylight Saving Time or standard time. However, these legislative changes depend on neighboring regions also making a similar shift to prevent complications in travel and trade.
For now, Toronto residents and many Canadians will adjust their clocks twice a year, continuing this age-old practice.
Key Information for Residents
Here’s what Toronto residents need to remember regarding the upcoming time change:
- Date: Sunday, November 2, 2025
- Time: Clocks go back one hour at 2 a.m.
- Location: Most of Canada will observe the change, with exceptions in Saskatchewan and certain parts of British Columbia and Quebec.
