In 1945, LIFE magazine published an article about a supposed “craze” among some in China around the February celebration of Lichun, the traditional start of spring in East Asian culture. The big deal? Balancing eggs. The heart of this article—that balancing eggs on their ends is somehow easier or only possible during the vernal equinox—has become the stuff of legend. Urban legend, that is. You are forgiven for believing this eggs-agerated tale, however—because it’s true! Well, sort of: You can balance an egg on the equinox. In related news, you can also balance an egg on its end on any other day of the year, too. Because here at The Old Farmer’s Almanac we take science very seriously, we once put egg balancing to the test. One spring, our editors stood eggs up minutes before the equinox and then several days later. Both times, around 17 of the 24 eggs stood balanced throughout a full workday. If anything, our editors found that the shape of the egg used (bumpy end is best!) and the surface it’s balanced on (rough is better than smooth) means more than the time of day or year. Don’t just take our word for it—try balancing eggs for yourself! It’s a lot of fun whenever you do it! We’re bringing this all up, of course, because the spring equinox will arrive on Saturday, March 20! Spring is almost here—have you started planning (or planting) your spring garden? Early this morning, Daylight Saving Time went into effect for many—we hope that you remembered to spring forward! This new season often brings clearer skies and sunnier days. Find out what the spring forecast looks like for wherever you live! Finally, St. Patrick’s Day arrives on March 17. We associate the color green with the holiday, but this wasn’t always so! Find out about this and other facts and fun for St. Patrick’s Day. Also: This festive holiday is the traditional day to plant peas, even in the snow! |
As sure as the Sun will rise and set each day, The Old Farmer’s Almanac is here for you, now and always. Your Friends from The Old Farmer’s Almanac |