🌅Sunrise/Sunset Calculator

Extreme Daylight Variance in the North

Canada's high latitudes mean extreme seasonal shifts in daylight. In Whitehorse or Yellowknife, the sun can stay up for over 20 hours in June, while December sees only a few hours of dim light. The National Research Council (NRC) provides the official time data used by Canadian aviators and mariners. Our calculator helps you visualize these 'Midnight Sun' and 'Polar Night' phenomena, essential for planning trips to the Canadian North.

National Research Council Canada

Daylight Saving Time in Canadian Provinces

Most of Canada observes Daylight Saving Time (DST), but regions like Saskatchewan and parts of BC remain on Standard Time year-round. This can create confusion for travelers. Our tool automatically accounts for these provincial DST rules, ensuring that your calculated sunrise time for a morning hike in Banff or a sunset view in the Maritimes is accurate to the local clock.

NRC – Time Services

Planning for the 'Golden Hour' in Canada

Photographers and outdoor enthusiasts use sunrise and sunset data to identify the 'Golden Hour.' In the Canadian Rockies or along the rugged Atlantic coast, this light is spectacular. Environment and Climate Change Canada notes that atmospheric conditions can affect visual clarity. Combine our precise timing with local weather forecasts for the perfect Canadian landscape shot.

Environment and Climate Change Canada

What is 'Civil Twilight' in Canada?

Civil twilight occurs when the sun is 6 degrees below the horizon. In Canada, this is the time when there is still enough natural light for most outdoor activities without artificial lighting. Given Canada's vast size, the duration of twilight varies; it's much longer in Northern Canada than in Southern Ontario. Our calculator provides these twilight windows to help you plan safe returns from your Canadian wilderness adventures.

How do sunrise times affect Canadian farmers?

Daylight hours are critical for the Canadian agricultural sector, particularly in the Prairies. Statistics Canada tracks 'growing degree days,' which are influenced by total solar exposure. Farmers use solar data to time their planting and harvest cycles. While our tool is for general use, it provides the fundamental sunrise/sunset data that anchors the rhythm of rural Canadian life.

Why does the sun set so early in December in Toronto?

In Southern Ontario, the sun can set as early as 4:40 PM in mid-December. This is due to Canada's position in the Northern Hemisphere and the earth's axial tilt. Understanding these early sunsets is important for managing Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), a common concern in Canada. Our tool helps you track the 'gaining' of daylight minutes starting after the Winter Solstice on December 21st.

🌆 Civil Twilight

Bright enough for most outdoor activities without artificial lighting. Best for landscape photography.

⛵ Nautical Twilight

The horizon is still visible. Historically used by sailors for navigation using stars.

⭐ Astronomical Twilight

Dark enough for astronomical observations. Faintest stars become visible.