The vernal equinox is here, bringing cause for celebration as the days grow longer and warmer.

Tradition holds that on the equinox, day and night are equal lengths all over Earth.

In Thailand, people celebrate by throwing water all over each other for Songkran. In India, they throw colors for Holi. And in much of the Middle East, people jump over bonfires for Nowruz, or the Persian New Year.

Although festivities in Dartmouth may be somewhat quieter, nearly 20 residents turned out for a Spring Equinox stroll at Dartmouth Natural Resources Trust’s Smith Farm property.

Participants arrived in the setting sun and immediately spotted deer at the Smith Neck Road site, which contains woodlands and fields.

During the walk they learned about spring phenomena like vernal pools — which serve as breeding grounds for frogs and salamanders before drying up in summer — as well as woodcocks, fairy shrimp and other animals active during the spring.

DNRT Outreach Coordinator Kendra Murray said that the walk started in the evening so participants could experience both day and night to symbolize the equinox itself.

“It’s a good way to welcome the new season and appreciate having longer days,” she said. 

Everyone on the stroll seemed to agree.

“It’s a good pandemic activity,” said Shara Porter. 

Stephanie DeMeo said that she loves the DNRT trails. “It’s one of my favorite parts about living in Dartmouth, really,” she said.

“I think it’s wonderful,” said Nancy Jordan of the walk. “The paths are nice and wide, it’s serene. It’s a place to just come and be yourself.”

“This is such a beautiful thing to do,” she added. “You’re supposed to hug a tree and really celebrate the equinox! So I’m delighted.”