Autumnal Equinox

Category: Seasons

Seasons

Autumnal Equinox around the world in 2022

About Autumnal Equinox

How long until Autumnal Equinox?
Autumnal Equinox .
Dates of Autumnal Equinox
2023 InternationalSep 23 International Sat, Sep 23Observances Holiday 2022 InternationalSep 22 International Thu, Sep 22Observances Holiday 2021 InternationalSep 22 International Wed, Sep 22Observances Holiday 2020 InternationalSep 22 International Tue, Sep 22Observances Holiday 2019 InternationalSep 21 International Sat, Sep 21Observances Holiday
Summary
Find out the dates, history and traditions of Autumnal Equinox

The word equinox comes from the Latin words aequus, meaning “equal,” and nox, meaning “night.”

The sun rises exactly in the east and sets exactly in the west on this day, making day and night equal in length. From this day forward, the sun crosses over the equator to the Southern Hemisphere, meaning it rises and sets in the Southern Hemisphere, meaning that the days will begin to become shorter than nights in the Northern Hemisphere, heralding the arrival of Autumn.

Equinoxes
NOAA/NWS

Traditions of Autumnal Equinox

All around the world, the fall equinox has weaved its way into our cultures and traditions.

In Greek mythology, the fall equinox marks the return of the goddess Persephone to the underworld for three months, where she is reunited with her husband, Hades.

Great Britain's harvest festivals have their roots in the autumn equinox dating back to pagan times.

In Japan, Autumnal Equinox Day is a national holiday. In Japanese, it's known as Shubun no Hi (秋分の日), according to Office Holidays. The roots of the celebration are thought to go back to Shintoism and Buddhism.

Find out more