As autumn begins along with the school year, changing leaves, and Starbucks pumpkin spice drinks, another seasonal milestone is arriving—the fall equinox, occurring this year on September 22nd. One of two equinoxes, this phenomenon takes place when the Earth’s axis is tilted so night and day are exactly the same length. Astronomically, the September equinox also signals the beginning of Autumn, which continues until the winter solstice. All over the world, the autumnal equinox is celebrated as a time of balance and transition! Here is a spotlight on some of these special holidays that honor the changing seasons.

Shūbun no Hi 

A national Japanese holiday that falls exactly on the autumn equinox and is rooted in Buddhism and Shinto, Shūbun no Hi is a time for giving thanks and respect to the deceased. Many families spend time with loved ones, tending to gravestones, or attend autumn festivals (matsuri) at local temples. Others appreciate the changing weather and visit shrines and temples. One particular fall tradition is tsukimi, which takes place on the Harvest Moon, or the full moon that lands closest to the equinox. Participants can attend festivals, enjoy live music, and eat special food such as botamochi, a ball of chewy rice in azuki paste. This treat can also be used as an offering at temples and shrines.

Mabon (United Kingdom, Europe, and United States)

First introduced to pagans in 1970 by the American Aidan Kelly, Mabon is a mixture of rich, ancient traditions and modern pagan expression. Its name stems from the Welsh god Mabon ap Mod, who represented youth, life, and renewal—all themes celebrated by the holiday. Mabon is also a time for reflection and transition from the heat of the summer to a cold winter. Most pagans celebrate Mabon through feasts with their friends and family, where they eat seasonal fruits and vegetables that represent the earth’s bounty, like apples, pumpkins, and root vegetables. Other popular ways to observe include taking a walk in nature, volunteering in one’s community, or meditating on balance. 

Kukulkán’s Descent (Mexico)

At the Temple of Kukulkán in Chichén Itzá, Mexico, a phenomenon occurs on the autumn and spring equinoxes. As the sun lowers, rippling shadows give the illusion of a giant snake slithering down the staircase. To the ancient Mayans, Kulkulan was a serpent deity who represented balance between the sky and earth. At the equinox, ceremonies honored Kulkulan, asking for blessings, and priests conducted offerings as the snake appeared. Today, the ceremony is celebrated differently, but common themes of renewal and harmony still appear. Thousands of visitors gather on the equinox to observe the illusion, while modern indigenous communities occasionally hold ceremonies or rituals nearby.

Mehregan (Iran)

Mehregan is an ancient Persian holiday, rooted in Zoroastrian tradition, that commemorates the balance between humans and nature, and harvest and abundance. It is dedicated to Mehr, who symbolizes love and friendship. In ancient times, Mehregan was celebrated in extravagant festivals where people give gifts, such as coins, horses, or even apples. Today, many communities have feasts where they eat foods like watermelons, pears, and apples, and sing and dance to music. In addition to recognizing harmony and nature, Mehregan unites those of different backgrounds in celebration.

These various faiths, cultures and communities may interpret the equinox in different ways, but they all recognize it as a meaningful reminder of harmony and balance. Together, these beautiful traditions reveal that no matter where or who we are, nature can bring us together in gratitude and reflection.