This weekend Canada switches to winter time
On the night of November 3rd, Canadians will need to set their clocks back one hour. Learn about regional differences and tips for adjusting to the time change.
This Sunday, November 3rd, at 2 AM, Canada will switch to winter time (Daylight Saving Time). To wake up on time, set your clocks back one hour on Saturday evening or Sunday morning. Most modern devices like smartphones, tablets, and computers will do this automatically.
History and Attitudes Towards Time Change in Canada
While the time change theoretically adds an extra hour of sleep, many Canadians note that it reduces the time spent outdoors. Petitions to end the practice appear regularly, as many consider it inconvenient and outdated. Thunder Bay, Ontario, was the first Canadian city to change its clocks in 1908. Today, this practice exists in most of North America, Europe, and some regions of South America and Australia.
Regional Time Change Differences
Not all regions in Canada observe Daylight Saving Time. For example, the Peace River District in British Columbia follows Mountain Time and doesn't change its clocks. Since 2020, Yukon has stopped seasonal time changes and stays on permanent time year-round.
Time Zones and Differences with Other Countries
After the switch to winter time, the time differences will be as follows:
- Toronto and Moscow: 8 hours (12:00 PM in Toronto — 8:00 PM in Moscow)
- Toronto and Kyiv: 7 hours (12:00 PM in Toronto — 7:00 PM in Kyiv)
- Toronto and Astana: 10 hours (12:00 PM in Toronto — 10:00 PM in Astana)
Health Effects of Time Change
Even a slight change in schedule can disrupt the body's circadian rhythms. In the first few days, you may experience:
- Sleep problems
- Decreased concentration
- Fatigue
- Mood swings
- Changes in appetite
Studies show that full adaptation can take from a few days to a week.
Tips for Adjusting to the New Time
Here are some simple recommendations to help you transition to the new time more easily:
Before the Time Change
- Go to bed 15-20 minutes later for a few days before the change
- Gradually shift your meal times
On the Day of the Time Change
- Stick to your usual routine
- Spend more time outdoors
- Avoid naps
- Limit caffeine intake
After the Time Change
- Maintain a consistent sleep schedule
- Create comfortable sleep conditions: quiet, dark, and cool
- Exercise in the morning
- Get more natural light exposure
