International Astrology Day

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International Astrology Day (most often observed on either March 20 or March 21) is an annual observance/holiday celebrated by astrologers and astrology enthusiasts. It is seen by astrologers as the beginning (first day) of the astrological year. It is the first full day of the astrological sign of Aries and thus marks the beginning of the tropical Zodiac.

International Astrology Day is celebrated/observed depending on the exact day that the Equinox actually occurs (Spring equinox in the Northern hemisphere, Fall equinox in the Southern hemisphere). This varies year to year between March 19-22, though it usually falls on March 20 or March 21. In some years the day may fall on March 19 on the early end of the scale or even March 22 on the late end of the scale, though these dates are rare.

The date of the holiday occurs at the same time of the Iranian new year (Norouz), which is celebrated in many places throughout the Middle East and Central Asia. It also corresponds with the beginning of the Bahá'í calendar, which is celebrated as Bahá'í Naw-Rúz. Other holidays occurring around this time include Ostara (amongst neopagans), Chunfen in China, and Vernal Equinox Day (a public holiday in Japan), among others.

In observance of IAD the Association For Astrological Networking co-ordinates astrological lectures and events around the world. Local astrology groups also participate, often in co-ordination with AFAN. For anyone wanting to publicize their International Astrology Day event, or to find out about local events there is also a frequently updated, online list of IAD Events for 2009.