The seasonal time change is once again approaching in the Canary Islands, reigniting the long-running debate about the usefulness of daylight saving time. As every year, the archipelago will switch to summer time, while maintaining its distinctive “one hour less” compared to mainland Spain — a feature that remains a key part of the islands’ time identity.
When does the time change take place?
The next time change in the Canary Islands will occur in the early hours of Sunday, 29 March. At that moment, when clocks reach 1:00 a.m., they must be moved forward to 2:00 a.m.
In practical terms, this means losing one hour of sleep that night. In return, daylight will extend further into the evening, providing brighter afternoons, something that benefits outdoor activities, leisure and tourism across the islands.
What will daylight look like after the change?
Following the switch to summer time, sunrise will occur later in the morning, while sunset will take place later in the evening. This shift is particularly noticeable in the afternoons, when daylight lasts longer, making evenings feel brighter and more productive.
Although the Canary Islands experience less dramatic seasonal variations in daylight than northern European regions, the change is still clearly felt in daily routines.
Effects on rest, health and daily life
Despite the advantages of longer evenings, specialists warn that the time change can have short-term effects on the body. During the first few days after the adjustment, it is common to experience:
- Mild fatigue
- Irritability
- Difficulty concentrating
- Disrupted sleep patterns
Residents also need to re-adjust schedules with mainland Spain. Flights, business meetings, television programming and administrative timetables must be checked carefully to avoid confusion, as the Canary Islands remain one hour behind the mainland even after the clocks change.
Could this be the last time change?
The future of daylight saving time remains uncertain. For years, it has been justified as a way to reduce energy consumption, but more recent studies suggest that the actual savings are minimal, especially when weighed against the impact on biological rhythms and public health.
The debate continues within the European Union, which has discussed abolishing seasonal clock changes altogether. However, despite repeated consultations and proposals, no final agreement has been reached.
In the Canary Islands, where daylight variation between seasons is relatively modest, the discussion is particularly relevant. For now, and in the absence of a definitive decision at European level, the current system remains in force.
Tips for adapting more easily to the new time
To reduce the impact of the time change, sleep specialists recommend:
- Gradually going to bed earlier in the days leading up to the change
- Avoiding screens before bedtime to support natural melatonin production
- Making the most of morning sunlight to help reset the body clock
When will clocks go back again?
The second time change of the year — returning to winter time — is scheduled for Sunday, 25 October. At 2:00 a.m., clocks will be set back to 1:00 a.m., allowing one extra hour of sleep.
Frequently asked questions
Do you sleep more or less after the March time change?
You sleep one hour less, as clocks are set forward and the night becomes shorter.
Why are the Canary Islands one hour behind mainland Spain?
The islands operate on UTC+0 in winter and UTC+1 in summer, while mainland Spain uses UTC+1 and UTC+2, reflecting their different geographical positions.
Is there an official end date for time changes?
No. Although the European Union has debated abolishing them, Spain’s official calendar maintains scheduled changes at least until the end of 2026.
How does the time change affect health?
It can cause what experts call “social jet lag”, leading to tiredness and sleep disruption. Morning exposure to natural light on the first day is one of the most effective ways to adapt.
