Today is the first day of autumn. The fall equinox will occur today, September 22, 2021, at 3:21 p.m. Eastern.
The Sun will be exactly above the Earth’s equator at that time, appearing overhead at noon as seen from the equator. Every year, around the same time, the Sun shines directly over the equator, distributing the same amount of light on both sides of the planet.
This is the start of shorter days and colder weather in the Northern Hemisphere.
This month marks Mabon, the Celtic name for the autumn equinox. Mabon is the second of three Celtic harvest festivals: Lammas, Mabon, and Samhain, which takes place next month. Mabon represents the heavy harvest, whereas Samhain represents the harvest of the dead and what remains from this month’s efforts.
Mabon was originally a harvest festival (Lughnasadh was the first), when farmers gathered hearty foods such as gourds, pumpkins, grapes, and apples. Modern Mabon celebrations are a time to express gratitude to Mother Earth for her abundance, both literally and spiritually.
This is also known as Mea’n Fo’mhair by the Druids, and it honors the Green Man, the God of the Forest, by offering libations to trees. Offerings of cider, wine, herbs, and fertilizer are appropriate. Mabon (like Ostara) emphasizes balance because it is one of the few times during the year when true balance can be observed in nature. There is no distinction between day and night.
Happy Mabon, (pronounced MAY-bone)
Irish Culture and Traditions 