Time Zones

West Greenland Summer Time (WGST)

Introduction

West Greenland Summer Time (WGST) is the time zone used in western Greenland during the summer months. It is UTC-2:00 and is primarily used to make better use of daylight during the longer days of summer.

Time Zone History

West Greenland Summer Time was established to optimize daylight usage and energy consumption. Historically, Greenland has observed various time changes, including shifts during the colonial era and adjustments post-independence. The time zone has seen changes in its observance of Daylight Saving Time (DST) over the years.

Geographical Coverage

West Greenland Summer Time is observed in the western part of Greenland, an autonomous territory within the Kingdom of Denmark. The region is known for its vast ice sheets, fjords, and unique Arctic landscapes.

Daylight Saving Time (DST)

Greenland observes Daylight Saving Time, shifting the clocks forward by one hour during the summer months. This practice typically begins on the last Sunday of March and ends on the last Sunday of October.

Major Cities

  • Nuuk: The capital city of Greenland, known for its colorful houses and cultural landmarks.
  • Sisimiut: The second-largest city, known for its outdoor activities and historical sites.
  • Ilulissat: Famous for its ice fjord, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Local Culture and Traditions

Greenland has a rich cultural heritage, influenced by Inuit traditions and Danish colonial history. The region is known for its traditional music, dance, and art. Customary practices such as kayaking, dog sledding, and seal hunting are also significant cultural aspects.

Local Events and Holidays

  • National Day: Celebrated on June 21st, marking Greenland's self-government with various festivities.
  • Christmas and New Year: Celebrated with various customs, including traditional foods and community gatherings.
  • Arctic Winter Games: A biennial event featuring sports and cultural activities from Arctic regions.

Other Names

West Greenland Summer Time is also commonly referred to as WGST.

Interesting Facts

  • Greenland is the world's largest island that is not a continent.
  • The Ilulissat Icefjord produces around 10% of all icebergs in the North Atlantic.
  • Greenlandic cuisine includes unique dishes such as mattak (whale skin) and kiviak (fermented seabirds).