How to Convert String to Date in ParadeDB

How do I convert a text string to a DATE column in ParadeDB?

Convert a text expression into a proper DATE value using ParadeDB’s PostgreSQL-compatible functions.

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Description

Why convert a string to a DATE?

Storing dates as DATE ensures proper sorting, filtering, and indexing. ParadeDB inherits PostgreSQL’s robust date functions, so conversion unlocks these features.

Which function converts string to DATE?

Use the built-in TO_DATE(text, format) or an explicit ::DATE cast when the ISO-8601 layout is already respected.

When should I use TO_DATE over casting?

Choose TO_DATE when the incoming string is not ISO-formatted (e.g., ‘07/25/2024’).Use a cast for ‘2024-07-25’ strings, which PostgreSQL parses automatically.

What is the exact syntax?

See the dedicated syntax block below. Note the mandatory format mask for TO_DATE.

How do I convert order dates on import?

Insert raw CSV data into a staging table, then convert the text column with TO_DATE during the final insert into Orders.

Can I update existing text columns to DATE?

Yes. Use ALTER TABLE ... ALTER COLUMN ... TYPE DATE USING TO_DATE(...).This rewrites the table in place.

Is conversion safe in bulk operations?

Wrap conversions in a transaction and validate with a SELECT first. ParadeDB’s planner handles set-based operations efficiently.

Best practices for string-to-date conversions

Validate format masks with SELECT TO_DATE('2024-13-01','YYYY-MM-DD');—it raises an error for invalid months. Index DATE columns after conversion for faster range queries.

Common mistakes and fixes

Review the section below to avoid silent data issues.

Why How to Convert String to Date in ParadeDB is important

How to Convert String to Date in ParadeDB Example Usage


-- Find all orders in Q1 2024 after converting strings to DATE
SELECT o.id,
       o.order_date,
       c.name
FROM Orders o
JOIN Customers c ON c.id = o.customer_id
WHERE o.order_date BETWEEN '2024-01-01' AND '2024-03-31'
ORDER BY o.order_date;

How to Convert String to Date in ParadeDB Syntax


-- Explicit cast when ISO compliant
SELECT '2024-07-25'::DATE;

-- TO_DATE for custom formats
SELECT TO_DATE('07/25/2024', 'MM/DD/YYYY');

-- Import example: staging_orders(raw_order_date TEXT)
INSERT INTO Orders (customer_id, order_date, total_amount)
SELECT customer_id,
       TO_DATE(raw_order_date,'MM/DD/YYYY'),
       total_amount
FROM staging_orders;

-- Update column type in-place
ALTER TABLE Orders
ALTER COLUMN order_date TYPE DATE
USING TO_DATE(order_date,'MM/DD/YYYY');

Common Mistakes

Using an incorrect format mask like 'DD/MM/YYYY' when the string is '07/25/2024'. This swaps day and month, returning the wrong date. Always match mask positions to the string.
Casting non-ISO strings directly with ::DATE. PostgreSQL only auto-parses ISO-8601. Use TO_DATE for other layouts to avoid errors or wrong results.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Does ParadeDB support all PostgreSQL date format patterns?

Yes. ParadeDB builds on PostgreSQL, so every format pattern (e.g., YYYY, MM, DD, FM) works the same.

Can I bulk convert without downtime?

Use ALTER TABLE ... ALTER COLUMN ... TYPE DATE USING ... inside a transaction during low-traffic windows. ParadeDB will lock writes but keeps reads available with minimal interruption.