Unveiling the Mysteries of the Autumn Equinox: A Guide to Dates and Symbolism

How to Celebrate the Autumn Equinox – From All-Things Apple to Creating Your Own Mabon Altar

A Brief Introduction to the Autumn Equinox

The autumn equinox, also known as Mabon, is a pagan celebration that originated from the Celts. The Celts, a tree-loving druid-led tribe, divided the year into eight segments, marking the turning points in the seasons. The autumn equinox is one of these turning points, along with the spring equinox, two solstices, and the four “cross-quarters.” During the autumn equinox, the Celts and pagans celebrated nature and the progression of the seasons, giving thanks to Mother Earth for the bountiful harvest and praying for the crops to last throughout the winter.

In modern times, the autumn equinox is seen as a time to reflect, refresh, and embrace the “new school year” feeling. It’s an opportunity to focus on gratitude, cozy up with pumpkin spice lattes and warm pies, and appreciate the comforts and security of home. It’s also a time for giving thanks and sharing abundance with those less fortunate.

When is the Autumn Equinox?

In 2023, the autumn equinox falls on Saturday, September 23. It marks the transition from summer to autumn, when the days and nights are of equal length before the nights become longer and the temperatures start to drop.

How to Celebrate the Autumn Equinox

While you don’t need to fully embrace paganism to celebrate the autumn equinox, there are several meaningful ways you can mark this occasion:

All Things Apples

The apple is a significant symbol of the autumn equinox. Incorporate apples into your celebration by enjoying fresh apples, apple juice, apple pies, and other apple-flavored treats. You can also add apple-scented candles or room fragrances to your home to create a cozy and festive atmosphere.

Create a Mabon Altar

Creating a Mabon altar is a traditional practice for pagans and witches. You can easily set up your own altar on a kitchen table, windowsill, dresser, or fireplace. Decorate it with harvest fruits and vegetables such as apples, leaves, pinecones, corn, pomegranates, squash, and root vegetables. Choose colors like gold, orange, red, bronze, and rust to evoke the spirit of autumn. Add crystals with dark or green hues to enhance the energy of the altar. Lighting an orange or yellow candle on your altar and expressing gratitude for the blessings in your life can be a meaningful ritual.

Declutter and Cleanse

The autumn equinox is a perfect time for a thorough cleaning and decluttering of your living space. Prepare your home for the upcoming fall and winter seasons by finishing lingering projects and clearing out physical and emotional clutter. This will create a sense of calm and peacefulness in your environment.

Gratitude Journal

Take advantage of the autumn equinox as a reminder to cultivate an attitude of gratitude. Pick up that beautiful journal you’ve been meaning to use and start a gratitude journal. Write down everything that brings you joy, surprise, or gratitude throughout the season. This practice can bring a sense of positivity and attract more blessings into your life.

Celebrate with Friends

Gather your loved ones and celebrate the autumn equinox together. Host a Mabon harvest dinner where everyone can bring their favorite dish and drink. Create an inviting atmosphere by showcasing your Mabon altar and encouraging discussions about gratitude. Aim for a warm and cozy ambiance, reminiscent of Thanksgiving but with a more relaxed and informal vibe.

Invest in a Charity

As the season of giving approaches, consider supporting a cause or campaign that aligns with your values. You can donate your time, energy, or financial resources to make a positive impact on those in need. Think of ways to provide ongoing support to various organizations that make a difference in the lives of others.

In conclusion, celebrating the autumn equinox is a time to appreciate the abundance of the harvest, express gratitude, and prepare for the changing seasons. Whether you choose to embrace pagan rituals or simply take the opportunity to reflect and refresh, the autumn equinox offers a chance to connect with nature and find harmony in the rhythms of life.