The autumnal equinox is the halfway point between the summer and winter solstices, and is a time of reflection and manifestation for many. Falling between September 21st and September 24th, this astronomical event marks the true beginning of fall.
In other words, it’s almost time to put our summer clothing back into storage, and break out cozy knitwear, scarves, boots, and denim, and replace our iced coffee order with a pumpkin spice latte! Witchy Halloween vibes are also definitely in the air, and we can’t wait to get a little mystic with our intention setting for the coming season. Come along with us as we enter our fabulous fall era!
Fall Equinox Rituals
The autumnal equinox is also known as Mabon, a pagan celebration. Sometimes called ‘The Witches’ Thanksgiving,’ this special time of year is about honoring the harvest and expressing gratitude for an abundant Earth. There are many different ways to mark the fall equinox, and it’s been celebrated all the way back to ancient cultures. Here are a few of the ways we’ll be ringing in the fall equinox this year:
Feasting With Friends
One of the most traditional ways to observe the fall equinox is to host a large, bountiful feast of seasonal produce with your loved ones. Think colorful autumnal vegetables, slow-cooker stews, comforting spices, warming soups, and pecan, or pumpkin pies! You could even get your mixologist on and whip up some stunning fall-themed cocktails. During the feast, take some time to connect with your friends and family and discuss your goals and dreams for the approaching season.
Writing in a Gratitude Journal
Writing in a journal is a wonderful way to count and appreciate your blessings. Include your recent achievements, note all of the experiences that have been meaningful in your life, and reflect on them. You can read back over this lovely ‘inner harvest’ as a future fall equinox activity! We recommend using a personalized journal with a photo of something you’re thankful for on the cover, or an inspirational quote.
Creating a Mabon Altar
Making a Mabon altar is a fun activity to do with little ones, or just as a project yourself! Set aside a small space in your home to display objects like candles, foliage, seasonal flowers and berries, acorns, chestnuts, and healing crystals associated with your hopes for the coming months. Your homemade fall altar can become a sacred place to meditate and reflect in the morning, or after a long day.
Reading Tarot Cards
Tarot cards are a fun way to connect with our spiritual side, and can offer us guidance through divination. Using these cards to gain insights into the past, present and future is a wonderful way to mark the fall equinox! The Rider-Waite-Smith Tarot deck is the most popular worldwide, and consists of 78 cards, divided into the Major and Minor Arcana. Gather your loved ones for an evening of mystical tarot card readings done by a professional reader or yourselves, and get ready to tap into the divine. What will the cards tell you?
Manifestation
Manifestation is the practice of aligning with the energy of the universe to co-create an experience that you desire. Manifesting can help your dreams become your reality! Through the power of positive thinking, an abundance mindset, and the law of attraction, many people believe that you can manifest just about anything! If you believe in yourself and that your goals are possible, you’re more likely to spend your energy working toward them. The fall equinox is an ideal time to rev up your manifestation practices and continue to utilize this skill in your life.
We hope you have a beautiful fall equinox this year, and ayour hopes and dreams come true as we transition into the colder months ahead. If you’ve got any other personal rituals you like to carry out during this time, please share them with us and fellow readers in the comments below!
Ella is a content specialist from Cork, Ireland. Her passions include spending time with her two energetic dogs, fashion, photography, and trying new vegan food!
