The autumn equinox is an important time for pagans, as it marks the transition from summer to fall. Pagans celebrate this seasonal change with various rituals and practices that connect them to nature and the changing seasons. One common way pagans celebrate the autumn equinox is by holding ceremonies or rituals outdoors. They may gather in a natural setting, such as a forest or meadow, and create a ceremonial circle. Within this circle, they may honor the elements and deities associated with the season, such as thanking the Earth for its bountiful harvest and expressing gratitude for the abundance of the harvest. Another aspect of autumn equinox celebrations is the act of making offerings.
The darkening days and chilly weather are a bit melancholy, but that doesn’t stop people from celebrating. Here are six ways people honor the autumnal equinox around the world.
In the Northern Hemisphere, the autumnal equinox the point after which the nights become longer than the days, as the North Pole tilts away from the sun falls on September 23, 2023. In England, it was a time of transitions, as servants were paid their wages after the harvest, and workers scrambled to find new employment contracts.
Another aspect of autumn equinox celebrations is the act of making offerings. Pagans may harvest fruits and vegetables from their gardens or farms and offer them to the Earth or to specific deities as a way of giving thanks for the abundance of the season. These offerings may be left outside or placed on an altar as a token of gratitude.
6 Ways to Celebrate the Autumnal Equinox
The first day of fall is the perfect time to get a little pagan.
By Miss Cellania | Sep 23, 2014 | Updated: Sep 20, 2023, 12:03 PM EDT
Apples are one way people honor the start of fall. / Nikada/E+/Getty ImagesIn the Northern Hemisphere, the autumnal equinox—the point after which the nights become longer than the days, as the North Pole tilts away from the sun—falls on September 23, 2023. Though Labor Day is seen as the end of summer, the autumnal equinox officially kicks off fall.
The darkening days and chilly weather are a bit melancholy, but that doesn’t stop people from celebrating. Here are six ways people honor the autumnal equinox around the world.
Additionally, pagans may engage in activities that connect them to nature and the changing season. This can include participating in nature walks, where they observe the changing leaves and plants, or engaging in gardening activities, such as planting bulbs for the following spring. These activities serve as a way to connect pagans with the natural rhythms of the Earth and to engage in the cycle of growth, decay, and rebirth. Pagans may also celebrate the autumn equinox by honoring specific deities associated with this time of year. For example, they may pay homage to deities of the harvest, such as Demeter or Ceres, and offer prayers or rituals in their honor. This can involve creating altars with symbols and offerings related to these deities, and engaging in meditation or prayer as a way of connecting with their energy and presence. Overall, pagans celebrate the autumn equinox as a time of transition and abundance. Through various rituals, offerings, and activities, they seek to connect with nature, give thanks for the harvest, and honor the deities and spirits that support and guide them in their spiritual journey..
Reviews for "Pagans and the Autumn Equinox: A Time for Reflection and Gratitude"
1. Sara - 2 stars
I was excited to learn about how pagans celebrate the autumn equinox, but I found this book to be very superficial. The author briefly touched on a few rituals and traditions, but it lacked depth and explanation. I was hoping for more guidance and a deeper understanding of the significance of this celebration. Overall, I was disappointed with the lack of substance in this book.
2. David - 1 star
I was extremely disappointed with "How do pagans celebrate autumn equinox". The book felt more like a collection of random information rather than a cohesive guide. It lacked structure and organization, making it difficult to follow. The author failed to delve into the historical and cultural contexts of the autumn equinox celebration, which left me feeling like I didn't learn anything new. I would not recommend this book to anyone seeking a comprehensive understanding of pagans' autumn equinox celebrations.
3. Emily - 2 stars
I found this book to be too generalized when it came to outlining pagans' autumn equinox celebrations. The author briefly mentioned a few common rituals, but failed to provide detailed explanations or examples. I was hoping for a more in-depth exploration of different pagan traditions and their unique ways of celebrating this important time of the year. Additionally, the book lacked visuals or illustrations, which could have added to the overall experience. Overall, I felt like this book only scratched the surface and left me wanting more.