Chicagohenge and March 2026 Celestial Events

March 2026 promises a captivating display of astronomical events for Chicagoans, including the unique urban phenomenon known as Chicagohenge, a total lunar eclipse, and the arrival of spring. This guide details what to look for in the skies above the city this month.

What is Chicagohenge?

Chicagohenge occurs twice a year when the setting sun aligns with the east-west streets of Chicago’s grid system, creating a dramatic visual effect as the sun appears to set between skyscrapers [Adler Planetarium]. This phenomenon is similar to Manhattanhenge in New York City. The best viewing locations are along east-west streets like Madison, Monroe, or Adams Street [Coffee With Damian].

When to View Chicagohenge in 2026

While specific dates for 2026 are not available in the provided sources, Chicagohenge typically occurs around the spring and autumnal equinoxes. The spring equinox in 2026 is on March 20th, making a few days before and after this date ideal for viewing [Coffee With Damian].

Total Lunar Eclipse – March 3, 2026

A total lunar eclipse will be visible in the Chicago area on the morning of March 3, 2026. The eclipse will begin at 2:44 am CST, with the total phase starting at 5:04 am CST [Adler Planetarium]. During totality, the Moon may appear reddish, earning it the nickname “blood moon.” The eclipse will end before 6:30 am CST as the Moon sets.

To view the eclipse, find a location with a clear view of the western horizon.

Central Daylight Time Begins

Don’t forget to spring forward! Central Daylight Time begins on March 8, 2026, at 2:00 am CST, meaning clocks will be set ahead one hour [Adler Planetarium].

Spring Equinox – March 20, 2026

The vernal equinox, marking the first day of astronomical spring in the Northern Hemisphere, occurs on March 20, 2026, at 9:46 am CDT [Adler Planetarium]. On the equinox, day and night are approximately equal in length.

Visible Planets in March 2026

• Venus: Visible low in the western sky after sunset, becoming more prominent throughout the month [Adler Planetarium].
• Jupiter: Rising each day, Jupiter will be visible high in the south-southeast early in the month, shifting to the southern sky later in the month [Adler Planetarium].
• Mars, Mercury, and Saturn: These planets will be too close to the sun to be easily observed.

March Moon Phases

• Full Moon: March 3
• Last Quarter Moon: March 11
• New Moon: March 18
• First Quarter Moon: March 25

These dates are specific to the Chicago area and employ Central Time [Adler Planetarium].