Autumn Equinox

You can tell it's the beginning of fall when the leaves begin to change color, the air feels a bit crisper and Halloween costumes and candy have already arrived in the stores. But when does fall officially kick off? In 2007, the Autumn Equinox falls on September 23rd.

Autumn Equinox - Balancing Act

The Fall Equinox is the first day of fall and signifies the start of shorter days and longer nights in the Northern Hemisphere. In the Southern Hemisphere, the opposite takes place. On this day, both day and night are equal, with 12 hours of light and 12 hours of dark. The balance of light and dark also happens on the Spring Equinox but in the spring, the days (light hours) become longer and the nights (dark hours) become shorter.

Autumn Equinox - Astrological Significance

The astrological sign Libra also begins on the Fall Equinox. Libra's astrological symbol is based on the Equinox. Libra's symbol is a scale - representing the balance of light and dark.

Autumn Equinox - A Pagan's Paradise

The Autumn Equinox is also known as the Pagan holiday, Mabon. It is on this day that Pagans celebrate balance, the harvest season and Thanksgiving. On the Autumn Equinox, food, such as dried vegetables, is offered back to the Earth in a gesture of thanks for all that the Earth has supplied in the past season.

Autumn Equinox - Activities

If you're looking for things to do for the Autumn Equinox, why not help out with some yard work? Pick up the fallen apples or rake the leaves. This way, you'll be helping your 'rents while being out in nature at the same time. If that doesn't sound too appealing to you, then how about having some friends over to bake an apple pie or to make some fall crafts?

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Read more: Behind the Holiday